What Gives? The Jewish Philanthropy Podcast

Episode 57 of What Gives? the Jewish philanthropy podcast from Jewish Funders Network, hosted by JFN President and CEO Andrés Spokoiny. In this episode, Andrés speaks with Laura Lauder, a trailblazer in Jewish philanthropy whose work has reshaped the way communities approach innovation and impact. Laura’s story is one of vision, legacy, and a deep commitment to strengthening Jewish life. As Board Chair-Elect of the San Francisco Jewish Community Federation and Endowment Fund, Laura shares her experiences tackling some of the most pressing issues facing American Jewry today, including anti-Semitism, support for Israel, and building sustainable philanthropy for future generations. Together, Andrés and Laura explore the evolving role of Federations, the transformative power of community foundations, and what it means to build a thriving Jewish future. Laura’s passion and expertise shine throughout this inspiring conversation—take a listen!

Episode 56 of What Gives? the Jewish Philanthropy Podcast from Jewish Funders Network, featuring JFN President and CEO Andrés Spokoiny. In this episode, Andrés sits down with journalist and author Abigail Pogrebin, who takes over as host, placing Andrés in the hot seat to discuss his new book, Tradition and Transition: Jewish Communities and the Hyper Empowered Individual. Together, they dive into how Jewish communities can navigate and thrive in today’s evolving world, exploring themes of identity, belonging, and the balance between tradition and modernity. From the existential dilemmas of the individual to the transformative role of Jewish institutions, this thought-provoking conversation will leave you reflecting on the challenges and opportunities for building stronger, more connected communities. Take a listen.

Rachel Sumekh, Project Executive of TEN: Together Ending Need, dives deep into the complexities of Jewish poverty, revealing that nearly 20% of Jews face financial hardship. She dispels myths surrounding this issue and shares personal stories to illustrate its widespread impact. The conversation emphasizes the vital role of programs like SNAP and community support in combating food insecurity, particularly among Jewish students. Sumekh also discusses innovative philanthropic initiatives aimed at fostering dignified employment and enhancing overall community well-being.

Episode 54 of What Gives? the Jewish philanthropy podcast from Jewish Funders Network, hosted by JFN President and CEO Andrés Spokoiny. In this episode, Andrés speaks with Zvika Krieger, a dynamic figure who straddles the worlds of technology and spirituality. Zvika was the first ever Director of Responsible Innovation at Facebook, now Meta, though he has had an eclectic career, ranging from journalism in the Middle East to policy work in Washington, DC, before pivoting to technology. We delve into his journey, exploring the intersection of tech innovation and Jewish spirituality. We discuss the impact of social media on society, the search for meaning in the digital age, and how traditional practices can coexist with modern technology. Zvika's insights provide a unique perspective on how we can navigate the challenges and opportunities of our rapidly changing world.

Episode 53 of What Gives? the Jewish philanthropy podcast from Jewish Funders Network, hosted by JFN President and CEO Andrés Spokoiny. In this episode, Andrés speaks with Rabbi Sharon Brous, founder and senior rabbi IKAR, a vibrant Jewish community in Los Angeles known for its inclusive approach to Jewish life. Rabbi Brous delves into the themes of her new book, The Amen Effect: Ancient Wisdom to Mend Our Broken Hearts and World, which explores love, loss, community, and connection. She and Andrés touch on the current crises impacting the Jewish world, and how her insights are particularly relevant in these challenging times. Rabbi Brous shares her profound thoughts on the importance of building sacred community bonds and addressing the pervasive loneliness in our society, drawing from both ancient texts and contemporary experiences.

Episode 52 of What Gives? the Jewish philanthropy podcast from Jewish Funders Network, hosted by JFN President and CEO Andrés Spokoiny.  In this episode, Andrés speaks with Joshua Foer. Josh is the co-founder of Sefaria, an open-source digital library of Jewish texts. Recently, he launched Lehrhaus, a "Jewish Tavern" in Boston aimed at making Torah study accessible in a welcoming environment. Josh discusses his journey from science journalism to Jewish entrepreneurship, the impact of Sefaria on Jewish learning, and his latest venture, Leviathan, a production company focused on the Jewish storytelling missing in today’s popular culture. Take a listen to this conversation, offering a look into Josh's innovative approach to Jewish education and community building.

Episode 51 of What Gives? the Jewish philanthropy podcast from Jewish Funders Network. Amy Spitalnick, CEO of the Jewish Council for Public Affairs, joins JFN President and CEO Andrés Spokoiny to explore the resurgence of antisemitism, the intersection of Jewish safety and democratic integrity, and the importance of building strong, inclusive coalitions. Amy shares insights from her extensive experience in policy and advocacy, highlighting the critical work needed to protect and strengthen our communities in these challenging times. 

Episode 50 of What Gives? the Jewish philanthropy podcast from Jewish Funders Network. We bring you an episode recorded last year, before October 7th. Rabbi Danny Schiff joins JFN President and CEO Andrés Spokoiny to discuss how far Judaism allows us to push technological advances. If medicine makes it possible, should Jews be allowed to increase their lifespan indefinitely? Or does that violate what it means to be human and Jewish. They discuss the immediate need to begin discussing and finding consensus around the issues of artificial intelligence, social media, and rapidly developing medical breakthroughs. 

Episode 49 of What Gives? the Jewish philanthropy podcast from Jewish Funders Network. We continue our series of messages from the stage of the 2024 JFN International Conference. This week, IsraAid CEO Yotam Polizer is joined by Prof. Nava Levit-Binnun to talk about IsraAid's transition to working within Israel in the wake of October 7th, and how much we need adaptability, care, and post-traumatic growth. 

Episode 48 of What Gives? the Jewish philanthropy podcast from Jewish Funders Network. We continue our series of messages from the stage of the 2024 JFN International Conference. This week, Oded Adomi Leshem, author of Hope Amidst Conflict, gives his perspective on hope, resilience, and vision, and shares a first person account of Israel's civic strength in the wake of October 7th.