Being Jewish with Jonah Platt

Watch this episode on YouTube @BeingJewishPodcast 3-time Emmy-winning actress and longtime activist Patricia Heaton found a new calling 15 months ago - leading the Christian charge to stand with Israel and the Jewish community in the wake of October 7th. In this week’s episode, Jonah and Patricia explore why her faith demands her to stand for truth and justice, and how she is using her platform to garner solidarity with Jews worldwide. From rallies at Columbia University, to visiting hostage families in Israel, to starting the October 7th Coalition non-profit,  the beloved “Everybody Loves Raymond” star highlights the urgency around her advocacy and the importance of rising to meet the moment. Patricia and Jonah also talk about the no-no’s of conservative politics in Hollywood, Heaton’s Irish Catholic upbringing, and her unwavering sense of faith in this no-holds-barred episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt. Stay ConnectedSubscribe to the video podcastFollow Jonah on Instagram @jonahplatt Follow the Show on Instagram @beingjewishpodcastJoin 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 Patricia Heaton & The October 7th Coalitionhttps://www.instagram.com/patriciaheaton/https://www.instagram.com/TheOfficialO7C/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!Mentioned in EpisodeChris Rock (On Taking Care of Your Kids) (warning - explicit content)Patricia Heaton Presents at Jewish Media AwardsOctober 7th Coalition (Patricia Heaton’s Non-Profit) “The Promise Sessions” bringing Israeli musicians to NashvillePatricia talks Unity Dinner & Nova Exhibit (Section in video: 2:29-6:37)Nova ExhibitionRegistration for Patricia’s “Deborah Rising” Womens’ Trip to IsraelPaul’s Scripture (Put on the Armor of God) Jewish Girls Attacked in LondonJewish Man Shot While Walking to Synagogue in ChicagoLone Jew Arrested at Anti-Israel Rally in TorontoPolice Tell Jewish Man to Leave Downtown Montreal During Anti-Israel RallyJonah discusses Availability HeuristicMenachem Begin “Jew with Trembling Knees” speechJewish Federation of ClevelandJewish Nobel Prize WinnersApproximately 22% of Nobel Prize Winners/Laureates Are JewishMalcolm Gladwell’s Revenge of the Tipping Point Lord of The Rings Speech (About Goodness in a Dark World) MyZuzahYourZuzahBillings, Montana: How A Town Banded Together to Fight Jew-HatredMagen David Adom 

Watch the show on YouTube @BeingJewishPodcast  NFL Vikings co-owner and philanthropist Mark Wilf opens up about his family’s American rebuild in the wake of the Holocaust, the importance of Israel, and the “family business” approach that has led to so much success for the Vikings franchise.. As a child of Holocaust Survivors, Wilf discusses the resilience and values his parents imparted to him, and how building a strong community is the antidote to trauma. He and Jonah also discuss numerous critical Jewish + Holocaust focused organizations such as The Jewish Agency, Jewish Federations of North America, March of the Living, and Yad Vashem. Wilf emphasizes the importance of teaching Jewish history to each new generation and how sports can be a meaningful vehicle for bringing people together around shared values. Don’t miss this eye-opening and inspirational conversation on Being Jewish with Jonah Platt! Stay ConnectedSubscribe to the video podcastFollow Jonah on Instagram @jonahplatt Follow the Show on Instagram @beingjewishpodcastJoin 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 Mark Wilfhttps://www.vikings.com/team/front-office-roster/mark-wilfHost & 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!Mentioned in EpisodeAJU’s Millter Introduction to Judaism program Rabbi Pinchas TeitzJaroslaw, PolandLvov GhettoHolocaust Survivor Gathering in Israel Wilf Family FoundationMarch of The LivingYad Vashem Lack of Holocaust Education Among Young PeopleJewish Federation of North America The Jewish Agency For Israel (Where Mark Wilf is the Chairman of the Board of Governors)Nearly 30,000 People Immigrate to Israel in the Midst of Ongoing WarsOctober 7th Commemoration Post - 2024October 7th Post - 2023 Nova Exhibition "All statistics from the opening monologue were obtained directly from internal data via the institutions themselves”00:00 Introduction and Thanksgiving Reflection00:50 The Surge in Jewish Identity Post-October 7th01:36 Remarkable Statistics of Jewish Community Engagement04:00 Impact of the Podcast and Community Feedback06:16 Interview with Mark Wilf: Jewish Values and Sports10:33 Family Legacy and Holocaust Stories21:16 The Importance of Jewish Education and Philanthropy24:36 Hope and Resilience in the Jewish Community24:54 Legacy of a Holocaust Survivor25:44 Yad Vashem: A Beacon of Memory and Education27:32 Challenges in Holocaust Education29:10 Commitment to Jewish Advocacy29:58 Support for Terror Victims and Community Building31:27 Global Jewish Support: Ukraine and Ethiopia33:21 Jewish Advocacy in Sports36:44 Reflections on Recent Trips to Israel39:52 Community Involvement and Philanthropy42:22 Final Thoughts and Audience Q&A

Museum-represented artist and feminist advocate Zoe Buckman dives deep into the politicization of Jewish identity, sharing her experiences with anti-Jewish bigotry on both sides of the Atlantic. She reflects on her past in progressive movements and how they've altered since October 7th. Buckman also discusses her unique artistic process, channeling grief into vibrant works of art. The conversation touches on mending community ties and navigating complex relationships strained by political ideologies, offering insights on resilience and unity.

Watch the show on YouTube @JonahPlattOfficialGail Simmons has captured our hearts and stomachs as a judge on Bravo’s Emmy and Peabody-winning series Top Chef for more than 18 years! Today, she joins Jonah to discuss her connections to food and family through the lens of her Jewish identity. A Canadian native, she reflects on her Jewish upbringing in Toronto and Montreal and how those Jewish communities persevere today in the face of immense anti-Jew hate. Additionally, she shares her concerns for the future as a Jewish mother, goes deep on all things Top Chef, and of course, sprinkles in some culinary wisdom on Jewish specialties like latkes, kosher pickles, and most importantly, Mom’s Brisket. Together, Jonah and Gail tackle a wide breadth of topics with hope, humor and heart. Mentioned in EpisodeNefesh - Rabbi Susan GoldbergChef Sara BradleyTom ColicchioHen MazzigGail Simmons’ Brisket RecipeInstagram Post by Gail SimmonsChef Birthright TripFranco-Turkish Relationship during First EmpireThe Great PowersStay ConnectedSubscribe to the video podcastFollow Jonah on Instagram @jonahplatt Follow the Show on Instagram @beingjewishpodcastJoin 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 Gailhttps://www.instagram.com/gailsimmonseats/ 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 and Context00:27 The Power of Social Media03:39 Historical Reflections and Call to Action05:34 Practical Steps for Jewish Advocacy07:10 Guest Introduction: Gail Simmons09:01 Gail's Jewish Culinary Heritage12:28 Gail's Career Journey23:52 Top Chef and Cultural Impact29:59 Jewish Food Challenge Ideas31:17 Support and Community Post-October 7th35:04 Social Media Advocacy and Reactions42:05 Memories of Israel and Kibbutz Life46:39 Contemporary Jewish Food and Deli Culture48:55 Thanksgiving Traditions and Preferences50:39 Audience Questions and Reflections56:26 Closing Remarks and Credits

Isaac Saul, founder of the independent newsletter Tangle and former Yeshiva student, discusses his evolving relationship with Judaism, touching on the impact of cultural identity and community. He delves into journalistic integrity and the need to bridge the political divide, advocating for respectful dialogue on contentious issues. Isaac addresses the complexities of Zionism amidst current Israeli-Palestinian conflicts while sharing insights on the upcoming elections and the importance of understanding different perspectives. The conversation wraps up with humor and nostalgia.

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 @BeingJewishPodcast Jonah 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.  Stay ConnectedSubscribe to the video podcastFollow Jonah on Instagram @jonahplatt Follow the Show on Instagram @beingjewishpodcastJoin 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!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/ 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 @BeingJewishPodcast Jonah 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 video podcastFollow Jonah on Instagram @jonahplatt Follow the Show on Instagram @beingjewishpodcastJoin 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 @BeingJewishPodcast  In 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 video podcastFollow Jonah on Instagram @jonahplatt Follow the Show on Instagram @beingjewishpodcastJoin 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 @BeingJewishPodcast In 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 video podcastFollow Jonah on Instagram @jonahplatt Follow the Show on Instagram @beingjewishpodcastJoin 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