Bayla and Yehuda Samter, who made Aliyah from the Five Towns, share their profound journey as parents of sons serving in the IDF, including Avi, who is in an elite unit. They discuss the emotional complexities of sending their children to fight in Gaza and Lebanon, navigating pride and fear. The conversation highlights the divergence in Jewish life between America and Israel, the challenges of maintaining friendships across cultures, and the deep sense of responsibility that comes with living in Israel.

Rabbi Simon Jacobson, a prominent voice in bridging secular and spiritual realms, is joined by his mother, Sylvia Jacobson, a matriarch of Chabad roots. Together, they discuss how the Chabad movement has adapted through generations, maintaining core teachings while evolving. They explore the sensitive dynamics of parenting and trauma across ages and reflect on their family's immigration journey from Russia to America. With a focus on instilling confidence in Jewish identity, they illuminate the significance of tradition and emotional openness in fostering spiritual connections.

In this episode of the 18Forty Podcast, we talk to Eitan Hersh, a professor of political science at Tufts University, about teaching students of radically different political and religious views how to speak to one another.College campuses have been a hotbed of contentious conversations, especially on issues around Israel, and Prof. Hersh is someone who’s been teaching his students to turn their disputes productive. In this episode we discuss:What happens when Hersh brings up Jewish topics in his college classes? How are students discussing the issue of removing international students who support terrorist organizations? How would Hersh teach Orthodox and non-Orthodox Jews to understand one another?Tune in to hear a conversation about what happens when personal subjects become the content of a college course. Interview begins at 7:25.Eitan Hersh is a professor of political science at Tufts University. His research focuses on US elections and civic participation. Hersh is the author of Politics is for Power (Scribner, 2020), Hacking the Electorate (Cambridge UP 2015), as well as scholarly articles. He earned his PhD from Harvard in 2011 and served as assistant professor of political science at Yale University from 2011-2017. His public writings have appeared in venues such as The New York Times, USA Today, The Atlantic, POLITICO, and The Boston Globe. References:“Where the Left Studies the Right” by Barton Swaim“A Conservative Thought Experiment on a Liberal College Campus” by Rachel SladeThe Benedict Option by Rod DreherHalacha Headlines18Forty Podcast: “Elie Schulman: Does Therapy Work? A Patient’s Journey”The End of Race Politics: Arguments for a Colorblind America by Coleman HughesThe Two-Parent Privilege by Melissa S. KearneyHacking the Electorate: How Campaigns Perceive Voters by Eitan D. HershFor more 18Forty:NEWSLETTER: 18forty.org/joinCALL: (212) 582-1840EMAIL: info@18forty.orgWEBSITE: 18forty.orgIG: @18fortyX: @18_fortyBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/18forty-podcast--4344730/support.

Subscribe to our email list here. In this Purim episode of the 18Forty Podcast, David Bashevkin talks about what Saturday Night Live has taught him about life, creativity, and running an organization. Prompted by the show’s 50th anniversary, we’re reflecting on lessons from five decades of laughter. In this episode we discuss: How did Lorne Michaels’s unique vision and insights help him “invent” SNL?What are the top five lessons about Jewish life that David has learned from the life of the SNL creator, born as Lorne David Lipowitz?What are David’s three favorite Jewish sketches from SNL?Tune in to hear a serious analysis of a comedic show. David Bashevkin is the founder of 18Forty. He is also the director of education for NCSY, the youth movement of the Orthodox Union, and the Clinical Assistant Professor of Jewish Values at the Sy Syms School of Business at Yeshiva University. He completed rabbinic ordination at Yeshiva University’s Rabbi Isaac Elchanan Theological Seminary, as well as a master’s degree at the Bernard Revel Graduate School of Jewish Studies focusing on the thought of Rabbi Zadok of Lublin under the guidance of Dr. Yaakov Elman. He completed his doctorate in Public Policy and Management at The New School’s Milano School of International Affairs, focusing on crisis management.  He has published four books, Sin·a·gogue: Sin and Failure in Jewish Thought, a Hebrew work B’Rogez Rachem Tizkor (trans. In Anger, Remember Mercy), Top 5: Lists of Jewish Character and Character, and Just One: The NCSY Haggadah. David has been rejected from several prestigious fellowships and awards.References:Lorne: The Man Who Invented Saturday Night Live by Susan MorrisonLive From New York by Tom Shales and James Andrew MillerBossypants by Tina FeyToo Funny to Fail: The Life & Death of The Dana Carvey Show (2017)Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee: “Lorne Michaels: Everybody Likes to See the Monkeys”Tikkunei Zohar 57b“Weekend Update: Jacob the Bar Mitzvah Boy on the Story of Hanukkah”“Weekend Update: Adam Sandler on Hanukkah”Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/18forty-podcast--4344730/support.

In this conversation, Rabbi Ken Brodkin, who leads Congregation B’nai Israel, discusses the transformative journey to full Orthodox affiliation. Eli Kramer shares insights on the challenges and triumphs faced during this transition, including the contentious mechitza debate. Emily Appledorf provides a fresh perspective as a newer member, highlighting the community's welcoming approach to diverse Jewish backgrounds. Together, they explore the delicate balance between tradition and modernity, aiming to create an inclusive environment for all Jews.

Lizzy Savetsky, a dynamic digital influencer and advocate for Israel, shares her evolution from fashion and singing to a passionate Jewish activist. She delves into the transformative power of social media, discussing how it reshapes Jewish discourse and community engagement. Lizzy reflects on her personal journey, grappling with identity and embracing her advocacy role amidst societal pressures. With insights on the complexities of modern activism, she highlights the need for authentic representation and informed engagement within the Jewish community.

Ari Lamm, co-founder of SoulShop Studios and CEO of the Bnai Zion Foundation, discusses unique approaches to Jewish outreach. He challenges misconceptions about Jewish texts being closed off and explores their profound influence on global culture. Topics include the efficacy of interfaith dialogues, the impact of the Protestant Reformation on Judaism, and the historical role of Jewish thought in shaping American ideals. Lamm emphasizes the importance of sharing these teachings with non-Jews to foster understanding and community engagement.

Frieda Vizel, a former Satmar Jew and a passionate blogger and tour guide, dives deep into her unique experiences bridging the Hasidic world and outsiders. She discusses her role as a cultural translator, illuminating the rich traditions of Hasidic life for those unfamiliar with them. With personal anecdotes, Frieda reflects on identity, the emotional complexities of leaving her community, and the significance of authentic storytelling. Listeners will discover how small cultural nuances can create universal connections and the joy found in everyday interactions.

Rabbi Yitzchok Adlerstein, a senior staff member at the Simon Wiesenthal Center and adjunct professor of Jewish Law, shares insights on outreach within Jewish communities. He discusses the importance of bridging divides and understanding the unique needs of the American Yeshiva World versus the Israeli Haredi World. The conversation delves into the necessity of genuine dialogue in an age of cultural realignment, urging listeners to foster empathy and connection beyond their communities. Adlerstein emphasizes the role of individuals as 'translators' in these crucial discussions.

Natan Sharansky, a former Israeli politician and human rights activist, shares his gripping journey from Soviet imprisonment to advocating for Jewish rights. He discusses the rising threats of antisemitism and assimilation impacting Jewish identity and the role of Israel as a solution. Sharansky analyzes Israel’s strategic mistakes in handling Hamas and emphasizes the need for cohesion among Jewish communities worldwide. He also explores the delicate balance between patriotism and critique in Israel's military actions, advocating for resilience and hope in challenging times.