Being Jewish with Jonah Platt

Jay Sanderson, a longtime Jewish communal leader and current president of American Jewish University, shares his harrowing childhood marked by antisemitism, including a near-fatal incident. He discusses his formative summer in Israel and a pivotal meeting with David Ben-Gurion that inspired his leadership journey. Sanderson critiques the reactive nature of Jewish institutions and introduces the 2050 Institute to ensure a proactive approach to the Jewish future. He outlines ambitious plans to modernize rabbinic education and invites younger leaders to reshape Jewish communities.

In one of the most powerful and singular conversations ever featured on Being Jewish with Jonah Platt, Jonah sits down with Eli Sharabi, a survivor of 491 days in Hamas captivity. Eli joins Jonah for a two-part conversation that moves from public testimony to deeply personal reflection. The episode opens with a live, onstage discussion at a Magen David Adom gala in Miami, honoring Eli and tracing his journey from Kibbutz Be’eri to captivity and eventual freedom. It then shifts to an intimate studio conversation in Los Angeles, where Eli speaks with remarkable clarity, courage, and humanity about survival, resilience, and the inner discipline that sustained him through unimaginable psychological and physical torment. Together, Jonah and Eli explore the writing of Eli’s book Hostage, the healing power of telling his story, and the global impact of his speech at the United Nations. With profound honesty, Eli reflects on the loss of his wife Lianne, his daughters Noiya and Yahel, and his brother Yossi, and shares his ongoing mission to share his story as a testimony against terrorism, confront disinformation, and raise awareness about the truth of what happened to Hamas captives.Topics discussed include:Eli takes us back to October 7th, sharing what he remembers from the day his life changed foreverThe unimaginable loss of Eli’s family, and how he carries their memory with himHonoring the courage and ultimate sacrifices of Amit Mann and Avia Hetzroni from Kibbutz Be’eriWhat inspired Eli to write Hostage and how putting words on the page became part of his healingThe reality of what food looked like in captivity, and what deprivation teaches you about survivalHow Eli became a mentor and source of strength for Alon Ohel while they were held togetherEli reflects on meeting UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer The emotional impact of Itamar Ben Gvir’s comments Holding onto tradition, faith, and Shabbat rituals under inhumane conditionsInside Hamas’ psychological warfare, and how Eli resisted being brokenRebuilding life after captivity, looking ahead, and Eli’s new mission of truth-telling and advocacySupport the podcast by subscribing to the Kehillah. Thank you to this episodes sponsors.Americans for Ben-Gurion UniversitySAPIRLinks to items mentioned in the episode:Eli Sharabi Instagram“Hostage” by Eli SharabiMagen David Adom I Spent 491 Days as a Hostage of Hamas. This Is My StoryBattle of Kibbutz Be’eri2025 Magen David Adom Miami Gala: From Darkness to LightEli Sharabi’s United Nations addressThe Heroes in the Battle of Sderot on Oct 7The Civilian Heroes of Ofakim On Oct 7. Nova Festival Massacre The Be’eri Printing Press: Israel’s Print ShopParamedic Amit Man, 22: Sacrificed herself to protect patients.Senior EMT Aviya Hezroni Killed by TerroristsHamas Steals Aid'I choose life:' Ex-hostage Alon Ohel recounts Hamas kidnappingJewish Diaspora celebrates release of living hostagesEli Sharabi’s Brother Sharon Never Stopped Fighting For HimEli’s first interview after his releaseEli Sharabi Meets with UK Prime Minister Keir StarmerEli Sharabi Visits Australian ParliamentYossi Sharabi Buried in Kibbutz Be’eriIsraeli Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir taunts Palestinian prisoners Jachnun (Rolled Yemenite Sabbath Bread)What Is the Kiddush?Bondi Beach terrorists ‘acted alone’ in attack on Hanukkah event — Australian policeFormer Hamas hostage Or Levy brings awareness of captives’ plight to South AfricaThe Shehecheyanu BlessingWatch Being Jewish on YouTube:www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcastSubscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter:bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletterFor Sponsorships, please email:jonahplattinfo@gmail.comTo contact us & all things BJJP:www.BeingJewishPodcast.comFollow Jonah on:Instagram - @JonahPlattX - @JonahPlattFollow Being Jewish on:Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcastTikTok - @BeingJewishWritten and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producers: Steve Hein, Jonah Platt, Chief Business Officer: Kenyon Laing, Chief Marketing Officer: Katya Nayman, Production Manager/Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald,  Production Associates: Rachel Stern, Charlie Zuker, Production Interns: Sasha Nelson, Emma Webb,  YouTube Consultants: Jason Al-Samarrie & Zac Stein, Post Production by TIMEWEAVER, Creative Director: F. Brian Scofield, ACE, Lead Editor: Noam Klement, Editor: Gray Clevenger, Joe King. Graphic Designer: Noah Bell, Theme Music by Gabriel Mann, Performed by Jonah Platt

Cindy Crawford, the iconic supermodel and businesswoman, shares her journey of interfaith life and advocacy. She discusses the challenges of raising children in a Jewish-Protestant home and the significance of Jewish traditions like Passover. Cindy opens up about her personal experiences with loss and how they shaped her views on faith. She emphasizes the urgent need to combat antisemitism and her commitment to preserving Holocaust survivor stories, showcasing her role as a passionate Jewish ally while reflecting on beauty standards and her legacy.

Dr. Jonathan Donath, founder of Daily Giving and a chiropractor, shares his journey of transforming grassroots giving with just a dollar a day. He discusses the inspiration from a rabbi's near-death experience that led to the platform's creation, highlighting the immense impact of many small donations. The conversation delves into building the giving 'muscle,' viral moments that helped grow Daily Giving, and the joy of community philanthropy. Jonathan emphasizes the importance of daily acts and the extraordinary effects of collective giving on both donors and recipients.

In a festive chat, culinary expert Jake Cohen, a bestselling author known for modern Jewish cooking, dives into the heart of Hanukkah. He shares his journey from a self-described 'High Holiday Jew' to a vibrant voice in food culture. Discover how hosting Shabbat dinners transformed his community connections and the importance of rituals like candle lighting. Jake discusses mixing Jewish identity with queer culture, hosting tips, and family legacy. It’s a conversation filled with warmth, laughter, and the joy of gathering around the table.

In a compelling discussion, philosopher and journalist Bernard-Henri Lévy dives deep into contemporary issues of Jewish solidarity and historic conflict. Drawing on his extensive experience as a war correspondent, he examines the implications of October 7th on Jewish identity and global perceptions. Lévy argues for the necessity of defeating Hamas militarily, critiques the rise of anti-Zionism, and emphasizes the fragility of democracy. He passionately defends Israel's unique resilience and the importance of confronting antisemitism, urging a return to moral clarity in public discourse.

Dr. Miri Bar-Halpern, a Harvard-affiliated clinical psychologist and trauma expert, shares her insights on traumatic invalidation in the Jewish community after the October 7th attacks. Growing up in Israel during conflict, she discusses how inherited trauma shapes mental health responses. Miri highlights her efforts with Parents for Peace to prevent radicalization and combat antisemitism, emphasizing the importance of validating Jewish trauma. Her work advocates for mental health support and education to nurture resilience and address community needs.

In this landmark 50th episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt, Jonah celebrates the milestone with his wife, Courtney Ann Platt (Glee, So You Think You Can Dance, Rock of Ages), the world-class dancer, television star, and multiple sclerosis advocate whose journey into Judaism has become a defining part of the traditions and values in their home. From growing up Italian Catholic in New York to becoming a Jewish mother raising three young Platts, Courtney opens up about the turning points that reshaped her life.With humor and candor, Courtney and Jonah revisit the early days of their relationship, the emotional path of Courtney’s Orthodox conversion, and their commitment to blending two traditions under one roof, from negotiating Christmas celebrations to creating a home where Jewish values are woven into everyday life. Courtney also reflects on motherhood, the visceral awakening she felt after October 7th, and how becoming part of the Jewish people changed her understanding of community, resilience, and responsibility. The conversation touches on spirituality, loss, MS, and what it means to both choose and defend your identity. This milestone episode is a celebration of love, tradition, and the family Courney and Jonah have built together. It’s an intimate look at what it means to choose Judaism, and to choose each other.Other Topics Include:The Story of How Jonah and Courtney Met Doing HAIR at the Hollywood BowlJonah and Courtney’s First Date & First “I Love You”How and When to Bring Up “The Conversion Convo”Conversion to Judaism: The Process and ChallengesProtecting Jewish Identity Post-October 7thJewish Day School vs. Hebrew SchoolHow Jonah Learned to Love Christmas!How Grief Affects Our Faith in GodThe Losses of Courtney’s SYTYCD brothers, Stephen “Twitch” Boss & Joshua Allen Courtney’s Life with MS (multiple sclerosis)Please support the podcast and become a member (join the Kahillah) to get exclusive benefits. https://beingjewishpodcast.com/communityMentioned In The Episode:Courtney Ann Platt InstagramUnstoppable: How Professional Dancer Courtney Platt Has Redefined Success While Navigating Society With Relapsing Multiple SclerosisGlee (Disney+)Hit the Floor (Apple TV)Rock of Ages (Apple TV)Camp Rock Two (Disney+)Adam Shankman L.A. Theater Review: ‘Hair’ at the Hollywood BowlAngelini Osteria & AlimentariCamp Ramah in CaliforniaVatican CityThe Rich History of Mall SantasWhat Happens on the Day of ConversionKnicks City DancersSo You Think You Can Dance (Prime Video)Why Bat Mitzvahs (and other parties) need a dance motivatorBJJP Tiffany HaddishWhat Is Rosh HashanahOhr Torah StoneThe MikvahWhat is Niddah?Why do Jewish Women Wear Wigs?Tattooing in Jewish LawThe Blessing of UnpluggingWhy Fast on Yom Kippur?Why do we Wear a Kippah?October 13, 2024 “Day of Jihad”Being Jewish: Together Mosaic ShabbatHoneymoon IsraelJoshua Allen, ‘So You Think You Can Dance’ season 4 winner, dies in train accidentRemembering Marc BeckerWhat is Kavanah?Watch Being Jewish on YouTube:www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcastSubscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter:bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletterFor Sponsorships, please email:jonahplattinfo@gmail.comTo contact us & all things BJJP:www.BeingJewishPodcast.comFollow Being Jewish on:Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcastTikTok - @BeingJewishWritten and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producers: Steve Hein, Jonah Platt, Chief Business Officer: Kenyon Laing,  Production Manager/Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald,  Production Associates: Rachel Stern, Charlie Zuker, Production Interns: Sasha Nelson, Emma Webb,  YouTube Consultants: Jason Al-Samarrie & Zac Stein, Post Production by TIMEWEAVER, Creative Director: F. Brian Scofield, ACE, Lead Editor: Noam Klement, Editor: Gray Clevenger, Joe King. Graphic Designer: Noah Bell, Theme Music by Gabriel Mann, Performed by Jonah Platt

Duff Goldman, a celebrity pastry chef and beloved TV personality, shares his heartwarming journey from baking to embracing his Jewish identity. He candidly discusses experiences with antisemitism and how they shaped his connection to family and food. Duff opens up about his upcoming Duff's Deli and Market, blending culinary traditions, and the joy of mentoring young bakers on Kids Baking Championship. With reflections on recovery from a serious car accident and the importance of tzedakah, this conversation is a delightful mix of laughter, resilience, and rich traditions.

Jean-Claude Nkulikiyimfura, the Executive Director of Agahozo-Shalom Youth Village in Rwanda, shares his inspiring journey from refugee to leader. He highlights how Jewish principles like Tikkun Olam shape ASYV's holistic education model for genocide orphans. The conversation dives into the impactful Tulane study showing impressive student outcomes, the empowerment of young women through the Inheritance Theater Project, and the vital ‘Anything is Possible’ campaign, which aims to sustain ASYV's mission in rebuilding Rwanda.