In this enlightening discussion, Van Jones, CNN analyst and activist known for his work in criminal justice reform, dives into the vital relationship between Black and Jewish communities. He highlights shared histories, the importance of solidarity in the face of rising hate, and the current political landscape ahead of the presidential election. Van also touches on personal identity, activism's challenges, and the concept of Tikkun Olam, advocating for community support and understanding as essential tools for social change.

Watch the show on YouTube @JonahPlattOfficialJonah is joined by Jackie Tohn, one of the hilarious stars of Nobody Wants This, the Jewish Netflix series people can’t stop talking about. From raising Jewish children and intermarriage to Jewish representation in Hollywood, no topic goes untouched in today’s conversation. In this one-of-a-kind episode, Jackie Tohn opens up about her family’s Holocaust roots, the Jewish characters she’s gotten to portray in her career and the ongoing challenge in getting Jewish portrayals right. Beyond this, we learn about Sukkot and the cultural meaning this holiday holds. This episode offers humor and hope while authentically highlighting the challenges the Jewish community is facing.  Mentioned in this episodeNobody Wants This (Netflix: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt26933824/) New York Times: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/10/05/opinion/nobody-wants-this-jewish-gender.html Time Magazine: https://time.com/7023404/nobody-wants-this-netflix-jewish-women/ Camp Lokanda (Website: https://www.lokanda.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/camp.lokanda/) BBYO - JEWISH ORGANIZATION FOR YOUTH (website: https://bbyo.org/) GLOW (Netflix) Episode 25: https://ew.com/tv/2019/08/10/glow-season-3-spoilers-jackie-tohn-interview/ A Futile & Stupid Gesture - Gilda Radner FilmVariety Magazine: (https://variety.com/2023/film/focus/jonah-platt-time-to-spread-jewish-joy-1235758562/) Erin Foster (Creator of the show: IG: https://www.instagram.com/erinfoster/) Floaters (https://deadline.com/2024/01/jackie-tohn-sarah-podemski-seth-green-maxwell-jacob-friedman-jewish-camp-comedy-floaters-1235809724/) CAMP SONG: 54:12 - Kenny Rogers Song PARODY “Through The Years”Best Leftovers Ever (Netflix) https://www.imdb.com/title/tt13563634/ Schusterman Foundation: https://www.schusterman.org/ Beads 4 Proceeds (Jackie’s Bracelets) https://pcfcares.org/beads4proceeds/ Stay ConnectedSubscribe to the podcast: https://beingjewishwithjonahplatt.transistor.fm/subscribe Follow Jonah on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/jonahplatt/ Follow the Show on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beingjewishpodcast/ Join the conversation on Twitter: https://x.com/JonahPlatt TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@beingjewish  Threads: www.threads.net/@jonahplattAll things Jonah:www.JonahPlatt.comConnect with Jackie TohnInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/jackietohn/ Host & Production TeamHost: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editor: Patrick Edwards);, Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Designer Noah Bell Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, and Consulting Producers: Shield Communications (Ariella Noveck & Bethany Mandel).Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on future episodes of Being Jewish!01:27 Introducing the Four Cs of Productive Conversations01:35 C1: Curiosity - The Key to Understanding02:54 C2: Calm - Keeping the Stakes Low03:32 C3: Camaraderie - Building Connections04:17 C4: Compassion - Shared Humanity04:48 Boundaries and Positivity in Conversations05:24 Engaging with the Audience05:49 Welcome to 'Being Jewish' with Jonah Platt07:05 Jackie Tone's Jewish Upbringing12:26 Jackie Tone's Acting Journey14:17 Jewish Representation in Media20:37 Critiques and Responses to the Show27:08 Visual Storytelling and Character Dynamics28:07 Feedback from the Jewish Community28:51 Authenticity in the Writer's Room30:00 Navigating Jewish Traditions On-Screen32:44 Interfaith Relationships and Jewish Identity36:18 Creating Joy Amidst Adversity39:55 Season Two Expectations and Personal Projects49:27 Audience Questions and Future Plans

Watch the show on YouTube @JonahPlattOfficialJonah travels to Israel for the heart-wrenching anniversary of October 7th and sits down with outgoing Deputy Mayor of Jerusalem Fleur Hassan-Nahoum to reflect on the challenges Israel faces in its war with Iran. During this conversation, Jonah and Fleur discuss her tenure in Jerusalem’s city government, and how the coexistence that exists in the city could be a blueprint for the country’s future. Additionally, they address the shortfalls of Israel’s communication strategy and what must be done to protect the country from existential threats. From college protests to the Second Intifada to the differences between Diaspora Jews & Israeli Jews, this episode tackles a wide range of pressing topics that simply can’t be missed. Stay ConnectedSubscribe to the podcast: https://beingjewishwithjonahplatt.transistor.fm/subscribe Follow Jonah on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/jonahplatt/ Follow the Show on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beingjewishpodcast/ Join the conversation on Twitter: https://x.com/JonahPlatt TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@beingjewish  Threads: www.threads.net/@jonahplattAll things Jonah:www.JonahPlatt.comConnect with Fleur Hassan-NahoumInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/fleurhassann/ Host & Production TeamHost: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editor: Patrick Edwards);, Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Designer Noah Bell Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, and Consulting Producers: Shield Communications (Ariella Noveck & Bethany Mandel).Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on future episodes of Being Jewish!00:00 Jonah's Arrival in Israel00:48 Reflecting on the Tragedy of October 7th03:43 Encounters and Stories of Resilience06:39 Unity and Mourning in Israel09:02 Interview with Fleur Hassan-Nahoum11:54 Fleur's Background and Family History22:48 Challenges and Opportunities in Jerusalem29:11 Diverse Jerusalem: A Melting Pot of Cultures29:27 Differences Between Israeli and Diaspora Jews29:59 Understanding Antisemitism: A Wake-Up Call31:07 The Evolution of Zionism32:12 Diaspora Jews and Israeli Identity34:47 The Communications War: Israel's PR Struggles38:19 Israel's Current Trajectory and Challenges44:49 Resilience and Hope for the Future45:30 Celebrating Sukkot Amidst Turmoil46:28 Lightning Round: Personal Insights and Reflections

Watch the show on YouTube @JonahPlattOfficialIn this thought-provoking episode of "Being Jewish," Jonah Platt dives deep with Rabbi David Wolpe to explore what being Jewish means to one of Judaism’s most renowned faith leaders. From rabbinical wisdom to addressing anti-Jewish bigotry on college campuses, to October 7th, no topic goes untouched. Rabbi Wolpe weighs in on his controversial time at Harvard, his storied career as a rabbi, and his own sense of Jewish identity. Join us for an in-depth and reflective conversation just in time for the Days of Awe and Yom Kippur. Mentioned in this episodeWhy Be Jewish - Rabbi David WolpeDavid: The Divided Heart - Rabbi David WolpeStay ConnectedSubscribe to the podcast: https://beingjewishwithjonahplatt.transistor.fm/subscribe Follow Jonah on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/jonahplatt/ Follow the Show on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beingjewishpodcast/ Join the conversation on Twitter: https://x.com/JonahPlatt TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@beingjewish  Threads: www.threads.net/@jonahplattAll things Jonah:www.JonahPlatt.comConnect with Rabbi David Wolpe!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/davidjwolpe Host & Production TeamHost: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editor: Patrick Edwards);, Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Designer Noah Bell Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, and Consulting Producers: Shield Communications (Ariella Noveck & Bethany Mandel).Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on future episodes of Being Jewish!00:00 Introduction to Yom Kippur and Self-Reflection00:23 Psychological Biases and Self-Awareness01:06 Shortcut Empathy: A Modern Fallacy02:36 The Importance of True Empathy03:36 Personal Experience on Middle Ground04:47 A Disheartening Encounter06:10 The Need for Genuine Empathy06:30 Introduction to Rabbi David Wolpe07:41 Growing Up as a Rabbi's Child11:07 Journey to Becoming a Rabbi15:16 Challenges and Achievements at Sinai Temple23:47 Reflections on Jewish Identity and Heroes26:38 Experiences at Harvard Divinity School30:01 The Resignation Letter30:50 Congressional Hearings and Disillusionment34:38 DEI and Systemic Inequality37:44 Advice for Jewish Students39:21 Cultivating a Relationship with the Divine44:18 Jewish Identity and Modern Challenges51:27 Audience Questions and Reflections

Watch the show on YouTube @JonahPlattOfficialIn this eye-opening episode of BEING JEWISH, Jonah Platt discusses the complexities of the term  “antisemitism” with guest Kenny Hamilton, a music mogul and former Justin Bieber bodyguard. The conversation dives deep into Kenny's journey towards converting to Judaism, his experiences working with Bieber and Scooter Braun, and how his identity as a Black Jew shapes his perspective on the current social climate. They also reflect on the shared cultural experiences between Black and Jewish communities, and the significance of Shabbat in fostering deeper connections. Kenny emphasizes the importance of speaking up against anti-Black and anti-Jew bigotry, and fostering a community of understanding and support. Join us for an enlightening discussion on breaking barriers and building a more inclusive world.Stay ConnectedSubscribe to the podcast: https://beingjewishwithjonahplatt.transistor.fm/subscribe Follow Jonah on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/jonahplatt/ Follow the Show on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beingjewishpodcast/ Join the conversation on Twitter: https://x.com/JonahPlatt TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@beingjewish  Threads: www.threads.net/@jonahplattAll things Jonah:www.JonahPlatt.comConnect with Kenny!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kennyhamilton/ Host & Production TeamHost: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editor: Patrick Edwards);, Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Designer Noah Bell Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, and Consulting Producers: Shield Communications (Ariella Noveck & Bethany Mandel).Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on future episodes of Being Jewish!00:00 Reframing Antisemitism: A Call to Action01:40 Research Insights: The Ineffectiveness of 'Antisemitism'05:50 Introducing Kenny Hamilton: A Unique Journey07:15 From Radio to Bodyguard: Kenny's Career Path08:36 Discovering Judaism: Kenny's Conversion Story09:44 Experiencing Israel: A Life-Changing Trip15:36 Cultural Connections: Black and Jewish Experiences25:25 Systemic Racism and Jewish History26:40 Jewish Contributions to Civil Rights27:36 Personal Journey to Judaism29:01 Conversion Process and Reflections33:57 Challenges and Reactions41:25 Social Media and Public Perception46:54 Finding Joy in Jewish Traditions

Watch the show on YouTube @JonahPlattOfficialIn this episode we are joined by dancer, singer, actress and social media star Montana Tucker. In this conversation with Jonah, she shares her journey from entertainer to Jewish advocate, discusses her Holocaust documentary “How To: Never Forget: A Holocaust remembrance film by Montana Tucker”, her powerful activism post-October 7th, and the importance of unity amidst rising anti-Jew hate. Montana also reflects on her upbringing in a predominantly Jewish area, her career in the entertainment industry, and her ongoing commitment to using her platform to uplift others for positive impact.Mentioned in this episodeHow To: Never Forget: A Holocaust remembrance film by Montana TuckerIsraeli & Palestinian Boy Band as1one Stay ConnectedSubscribe to the podcast: https://beingjewishwithjonahplatt.transistor.fm/subscribe Follow Jonah on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/jonahplatt/ Follow the Show on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beingjewishpodcast/ Join the conversation on Twitter: https://x.com/JonahPlatt TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@beingjewish  Threads: www.threads.net/@jonahplattAll things Jonah:www.JonahPlatt.comConnect with Montana!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/montanatucker/ Host & Production TeamHost: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editor: Patrick Edwards);, Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Designer Noah Bell Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, and Consulting Producers: Shield Communications (Ariella Noveck & Bethany Mandel).Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on future episodes of Being Jewish!00:00 Introduction: The Weight on American Jews00:19 Election Year: Jewish Perspectives01:13 Arguments for Kamala Harris02:01 Arguments Against Donald Trump05:12 Arguments for Donald Trump06:38 Arguments Against Kamala Harris08:30 The Complexity of Jewish Voting10:22 Interview with Montana Tucker11:27 Montana's Jewish Upbringing17:04 Montana's Career and Social Media Rise20:58 Holocaust Education and Activism26:59 Personal Connection and Authenticity27:08 Holocaust Education Challenges27:36 Impact of Social Media on Awareness28:03 Public Conversations and Media Influence30:05 October 7th: A Turning Point31:14 Rallies and Community Resilience31:53 Family Stories of Survival33:13 Advocacy and Social Media Challenges34:06 Balancing Activism and Personal Life41:28 Future Plans and Projects43:58 Community Support and Collaboration

Watch the show on YouTube @JonahPlattOfficialIn the premiere episode of 'Being Jewish with Jonah Platt,' host Jonah Platt sits down with Hollywood actor Skylar Astin. Skylar opens up about his evolving Jewish identity, childhood experiences, and navigating the entertainment industry as a proud Jewish professional. They discuss the impact of recent events on Jewish advocacy, the challenges of anti-Jew hate, and the importance of openly celebrating Jewish culture. Tune in for an engaging and insightful conversation about Jewish identity, representation, and resilience.Mentioned in this episodeSkylar Astin’s Shabbat Special: Recipe for Change: Standing Up to Antisemitism - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dj-pWmsOIyQ Smokey Robinson Mispronounces Chanukah I Cameo: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SQPXGJIN8yQ Stay ConnectedSubscribe to the podcast: https://beingjewishwithjonahplatt.transistor.fm/subscribe Follow Jonah on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/jonahplatt/ Follow the Show on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beingjewishpodcast/ Join the conversation on Twitter: https://x.com/JonahPlatt TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@beingjewish  Threads: www.threads.net/@jonahplattAll things Jonah:www.JonahPlatt.comConnect with Skylar!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skylarastin/ Host & Production TeamHost: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editor: Patrick Edwards);, Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Designer Noah Bell Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, and Consulting Producers: Shield Communications (Ariella Noveck & Bethany Mandel).Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on future episodes of Being Jewish!00:00 Introduction: Embracing Jewish Identity00:38 The Turning Point: Spring 202101:32 Advocacy and the Podcast's Mission05:52 Guest Introduction: Skylar Astin07:45 Skylar's Jewish Journey15:34 Navigating Jewish Identity in Hollywood21:35 Combating Antisemitism: Past and Present24:24 Reflecting on Jewish Identity and Anti-Semitism26:17 Navigating Social Media and Public Perception28:31 Balancing Activism and Professionalism32:45 Experiences in the Entertainment Industry37:45 Personal Connections and Jewish Culture39:42 Engaging with the Audience45:08 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Introducing...Being Jewish with Jonah Platt. A weekly podcast that illuminates the full, beautiful, often unexplored spectrum of Jewish identity, by exploring the personal journeys of both Jews and non-Jewish allies alike. Each week, actor/artist/advocate Jonah Platt will interview a celebrity figure from any number of fields—Art, Sports, Entertainment, Politics, Food, Music, Business, you name it—allowing the esteemed guest a safe space to dig deep into their own individual connection to the question, “What does it mean to be Jewish TO YOU?” Both the show’s audience and the established audience of each guest will have a unique opportunity to discover their hero’s connection to the Jewish experience through a thought-provoking conversation they won’t have heard anywhere else.Follow and Subscribe now wherever you get your podcasts.Follow us on Instagram: @beingjewishpodcastComing soon to YouTube!