The conflict in the Middle East isn’t about religion, or national aspirations, or any of the wonderfully abstract things us westerners like to dream about: Tony Badran, Tablet’s news editor, joins Liel to explain the logic that has governed the Levant since at least the Bronze Age, and argue that Israel now has a historic opportunity to change history by disrupting Iran’s imperialist aspirations in the region.

This week on Re-Form, we’re taking a break from the interviews to look at some of the feedback we’ve been getting from you, our listeners. We find praise, questions, and even a reform rabbi who disagrees with … a lot. If you want to send more feedback reach out at podcasts@tabletmag.com

Amiad Cohen, Founder and CEO of Herut, brings profound insights into Israel's current geopolitical landscape. He argues for a fresh perspective on achieving lasting peace, emphasizing decisive military action and territorial control over idealistic negotiations. The conversation scrutinizes media narratives, discusses the complexities of the Israel-Lebanon border, and examines governance in Judea and Samaria with a focus on enforcing the rule of law. Cohen also advocates for a generational leadership shift that aligns with the values of modern Israelis.

Rabbi Karen R. Perolman, a leader at Congregation B’Nai Jeshurun, discusses the transformative impact of inclusivity within the Reform movement. She highlights key milestones such as the ordination of women and LGBTQ+ rabbis. The conversation explores the acceptance of Jews of color and interfaith families, emphasizing the evolution of leadership dynamics. Rabbi Perolman also addresses the need for engaging with Jewish texts to balance tradition with contemporary values, furthering an inclusive environment for all in the Jewish community.

On this episode of Beautifully Jewish, we’re preparing for 5785 with a focus on the holiday table. Rethinking the table just might ground you and bring some clarity as you get ready for these days of awe. Tanya begins the episode with her reflections on the spiritual significance of the table before she and guest host Shannon Sarna share three interviews that serve up some sage advice. First, we learn about creating your own beautiful holiday table with blogger Rebekah Lowin, aka The Jewish Martha Stewart, who shares some surprisingly simple ways to elevate your holiday table.Next, etiquette expert and author Lisa Gaché joins us to talk about how to bring our best selves to holiday meals (hint: it starts with a smile). We couldn’t fit all of Lisa’s ideas into this episode, but if you’re interested, check out this link about Talmudic table manners.Finally, we chat with Jewish culinary legends Michael Solomonov and Steve Cook to hear more about their new book Zahav Home: Cooking for Friends and Family and get their recommendations for a delicious holiday menu. Listen to the end to hear their true thoughts on that old Jewish pantry staple: Lipton French Onion Soup Mix.  This episode of Beautifully Jewish is hosted by Tanya Singer with guest co-host and Queen of Jewish comfort food, Shannon Sarna who shares her recipe for Balsamic Apple Date Challah.Learn more about becoming a Tablet Member at tabletm.ag/uomember.Write to us at unorthodox@tabletmag.com, or leave a voicemail on our listener line: (914) 570-4869.Unorthodox is produced by Tablet Studios. Check out all of our podcasts at tabletmag.com/podcasts.

This week we talk to Erin Foster, the creator and writer of new Netflix comedy Nobody Wants This, starring Adam Brody, Kristen Bell, and Unorthodox alum Tovah Feldshuh. Then we visit the special collections of Hebrew University.Learn more about becoming a Tablet Member at tabletm.ag/uomemberPodcast AudioWrite to us at unorthodox@tabletmag.com, or leave a voicemail on our listener line: (914) 570-4869.Unorthodox is produced by Tablet Studios. Check out all of our podcasts at tabletmag.com/podcasts.SPONSOR:Join us in celebrating 100 years of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem—a true cornerstone of Israel's success and a leader in global innovation. From pioneering academic research to fostering social progress, the university has made an indelible impact on the world. As it enters its second century, the university remains dedicated to empowering future leaders and advancing human knowledge. Learn more about how you can support Hebrew University and be part of its journey toward a brighter future at AFHU.org. 

On this episode of Re-Form: Examining the Challenges and Choices of America’s Largest Jewish Movement, we look at the Reform movement’s focus on Social Justice, and how the emphasis on it can impact Jewish practice. We spoke with Rabbi Sari Laufer, Chief Engagement Officer at Stephen Wise Temple in Los Angeles and a veteran of the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism. 

Executive Producer Courtney Hazlett sits down with Tanya Singer and Talia Elkin to discuss the Simchat Torah Challenge, a new project aimed at getting 10,000 Jews to read the Torah portion every week. Learn more and join the challenge at www.simchattorahchallenge.org. Then, Courtney brings us back to Israel with a visit to the Shura military base to learn about the IDF Rabbinate’s role in catering to the religious needs of all their soldiers, including sending Torah scrolls to battle.   Write to us at unorthodox@tabletmag.com, or leave a voicemail on our listener line: (914) 570-4869.Unorthodox is produced by Tablet Studios. Check out all of our podcasts at tabletmag.com/podcasts.

On this episode of Re-Form: Examining the Challenges and Choices of America’s Largest Jewish Movement, we look at the Reform movement’s decision about patrilineal descent, and how it re-defined who is a Jew. Rabbi Mark Washofsky joins us to discuss a pivotal 1983 responsa. 

Introducing, Re-Form: Examining the Challenges and Choices of America’s Largest Jewish Movement. Hosts Josh Kross and Rabbi Diana Fersko walk us through the big decisions — from patrilineal descent to Zionism to intermarriage — that brought the movement to the crossroads it is at today.