Here I Am With Shai Davidai

In this episode of "Here I Am," host Shai Davidai sits down with Jessica Zmood and Shelly Steinwurtzel, co-founders of Gesher Campus Care. They discuss their personal journeys as Jewish therapists, the impact of October 7th on the Jewish community, and the rise of anti-Semitism and traumatic invalidation on college campuses. Jessica and Shelly share how their nonprofit connects Jewish students, faculty, and staff with safe, supportive, and culturally competent therapists. They explore the challenges of finding truly safe therapeutic spaces in a climate where "decolonizing therapy" can sometimes invalidate Jewish experiences. The conversation highlights the importance of Jewish pride, resilience, and community, and offers hope for a future where everyone can express their identity without fear. Guest: Dr. Jessica Zmood and Dr. Shelly Steinwurzel Consider DONATING to help us continue and expand our media efforts. If you cannot at this time, please share this video with someone who might benefit from it. We thank you for your support!https://gofund.me/30c00151cCOMING SOON BUY MERCH!SUPPORT SHAI ON PATREON!https://www.patreon.com/shaidavidai/about?utm_source=campaign-search-results 🔔 Subscribe now and never miss an episode📢 Follow us on social media:Instagram: hereiamwithshaidavidaiTik Tok: hereiamwithshaidavidai / hereiamwithshaidavidai 🎧 Listen to the full episode on your favorite podcast platform:RSS: https://rss.com/podcasts/hereiamwithshaidavidai/Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/here-i-am-with-shai-davidai/id1757483524Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6pI03BMwAuQDbYIy4Zp6ah?si=2bd1c3f8a11c46cd #HereIAm #ShaiDavidai #JessicaZmood #ShellySteinwurtzel #GesherCampusCare #JewishCommunity #JewishIdentity #Antisemitism #CampusLife #MentalHealth #Therapy #JewishPride #JewishResilience #October7 #TraumaSupport #SafeSpaces #CulturalCompetence #JewishStudents #CollegeCampuses #JewishFaculty #JewishStaff #DecolonizingTherapy #IHRA #JewishEducation #JewishHistory #JewishTherapists #JewishSupport #JewishSolidarity #JewishHealing #JewishVoices Credits:Producers: Shai Davidai, Abbie Sophia, Adamit Productions, Naomi Landis, Emma Law-Oppman, Ilana Kalach, Allison FullerFilmed @ The CAVE Soundstage in Hackensack and edited by Adamit ProductionsGraphic by Shira AumanFor sponsorship opportunities, please email achi@adamitproductions.com

Join host Shai Davidai as he sits down with Jonathan Harounoff, British journalist, international spokesperson for Israel’s Mission to the UN, and author of "Unveiled: Inside Iran’s Woman Life Freedom Revolt." Johnny shares his unique perspective as a British Jew of Persian descent, reflecting on his multicultural background, experiences with anti-Semitism at top universities, and his journey into journalism.In this episode, Jonathan discusses the origins and impact of Iran’s Woman, Life, Freedom movement, the challenges faced by the Iranian people under the Islamic Republic, and the resilience of Iran’s Jewish community. The conversation explores the complexities of identity, the power of protest, and the importance of international solidarity. Don’t miss this insightful discussion about history, activism, and hope for a brighter future in Iran and beyond.Guest: Jonathan HarounoffNOTE: This episode was filmed on October 23, 2025Consider DONATING to help us continue and expand our media efforts. If you cannot at this time, please share this video with someone who might benefit from it. We thank you for your support!https://gofund.me/30c00151cCOMING SOON BUY MERCH!SUPPORT SHAI ON PATREON!https://www.patreon.com/shaidavidai/about?utm_source=campaign-search-results🔔 Subscribe now and never miss an episode📢 Follow us on social media:Instagram: hereiamwithshaidavidaiTik Tok: hereiamwithshaidavidai / hereiamwithshaidavidai🎧 Listen to the full episode on your favorite podcast platform:RSS: https://rss.com/podcasts/hereiamwithshaidavidai/Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/here-i-am-with-shai-davidai/id1757483524Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6pI03BMwAuQDbYIy4Zp6ah?si=2bd1c3f8a11c46cd#hereiampodcast #shaidavidai #JohnnyHarounoff #UnveiledBook #iranprotests2022 #womanlifefreedom #mahsaamini #iranianrevolution #jewishdiaspora #middleeast #humanrights #iranianwomen #freedommovement #AntiSemitism #journalism #UN #israel #PersianJewish #diasporavoices #socialjustice #activism #iranhistory #protestmovement #identity #internationalrelations #jewishcommunity #IranianJewry #womenempowerment #middleeastpolitics #HopeForIranCredits:Producers: Shai Davidai, Abbie Sophia, Adamit Productions, Naomi Landis, Emma Law-Oppman, Ilana Kalach, Allison FullerFilmed @ The CAVE Soundstage in Hackensack and edited by Adamit ProductionsGraphic by Shira AumanFor sponsorship opportunities, please email achi@adamitproductions.com

In this episode, host Shai Davidai sits down with actor, advocate, and podcast host Jonah Platt for a heartfelt conversation about Jewish identity, community, and advocacy. Jonah shares his personal journey growing up in a deeply Jewish family, the importance of intentionality in passing down Jewish values, and how he fosters a sense of belonging and pride in his own children. The discussion explores generational shifts in Jewish identity, the challenges young Jews face in balancing tradition with modern social circles, and the complexities of supporting Israel in today’s climate. Jonah also reflects on his experiences hosting the “Being Jewish” podcast, memorable guests, and the lessons he’s learned about celebrating Jewish diversity and humanity. The episode wraps up with rapid-fire questions, touching on family, hope, and the importance of giving back. This is an inspiring and thoughtful episode about embracing identity, fostering community, and leading with curiosity and compassion Guest: Jonah Platt Consider DONATING to help us continue and expand our media efforts. If you cannot at this time, please share this video with someone who might benefit from it. We thank you for your support!https://gofund.me/30c00151c COMING SOON BUY MERCH! SUPPORT SHAI ON PATREON!https://www.patreon.com/shaidavidai/about?utm_source=campaign-search-results 🔔 Subscribe now and never miss an episode📢 Follow us on social media:Instagram: hereiamwithshaidavidaiTik Tok: hereiamwithshaidavidai / hereiamwithshaidavidai 🎧 Listen to the full episode on your favorite podcast platform:RSS: https://rss.com/podcasts/hereiamwithshaidavidai/Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/here-i-am-with-shai-davidai/id1757483524Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6pI03BMwAuQDbYIy4Zp6ah?si=2bd1c3f8a11c46cd #HereIAmPodcast #ShaiDavidai #JonahPlatt #BeingJewish #JewishIdentity #JewishCommunity #JewishPride #JewishPodcast #JewishAdvocacy #JewishPeoplehood #JewishValues #JewishFamily #JewishTradition #JewishCulture #Israel #JewishLife #JewishHeritage #JewishVoices #JewishConversation #JewishDiversity #JewishHistory #JewishFuture #JewishUnity #JewishLeadership #JewishParenting #JewishEducation #JewishHolidays #JewishMusic #JewishHollywood #JewishDiaspora #JewishSupport #JewishHope #JewishCharity #JewishPhilanthropy #JewishYouth #JewishFaith #JewishLearning #JewishPride #JewishResilience #JewishExperience #JewishPodcastHost Credits:Producers: Shai Davidai, Abbie Sophia, Adamit Productions, Naomi Landis, Emma Law-Oppman, Ilana Kalach, Allison FullerFilmed @ The CAVE Soundstage in Hackensack and edited by Adamit ProductionsGraphic by Shira AumanFor sponsorship opportunities, please email achi@adamitproductions.com

In this episode, host Shai Davidai sits down with Andrew Pessin, a philosophy professor at Connecticut College and author of several books on anti-Semitism and philosophy. Andrew shares his personal journey, including his "Herzl moment"—the realization that anti-Zionism is a form of anti-Semitism—sparked by a social media controversy in 2015. He recounts the backlash he faced after a Facebook post about the Israel-Hamas conflict was taken out of context, leading to international outrage and threats. The conversation explores the rise of anti-Zionism and anti-Semitism on college campuses, the challenges faced by Jewish and Zionist professors and students, and the broader societal implications. Andrew also discusses his ongoing work documenting campus incidents, the importance of Jewish education, and his hope for the next generation. This candid discussion sheds light on the complexities of identity, academic freedom, and the fight against bigotry in today’s world. Guest: Andrew Pessin Consider DONATING to help us continue and expand our media efforts. If you cannot at this time, please share this video with someone who might benefit from it. We thank you for your support! https://gofund.me/30c00151c COMING SOON BUY MERCH! SUPPORT SHAI ON PATREON! https://www.patreon.com/shaidavidai/about?utm_source=campaign-search-results 🔔 Subscribe now and never miss an episode 📢 Follow us on social media: Instagram: hereiamwithshaidavidai Tik Tok: hereiamwithshaidavidai / hereiamwithshaidavidai 🎧 Listen to the full episode on your favorite podcast platform: RSS: https://rss.com/podcasts/hereiamwithshaidavidai/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/here-i-am-with-shai-davidai/id1757483524 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6pI03BMwAuQDbYIy4Zp6ah?si=2bd1c3f8a11c46cd #hereiampodcast #shaidavidai #AndrewPessin #podcast #jewishidentity #Antisemitism #AntiZionism #israel #campuslife #academicfreedom #jewishcommunity #zionisme #jewishhistory #CollegeCampuses #socialjustice #jewisheducation #jewishvoices #jewishpride #JewishStudents #JewishProfessors #CancelCulture #freespeech #jewishpodcast #JewishIssues #jewishphilosophy #JewishRights #JewishSafety #JewishSolidarity #JewishSupport #jewishexperience Credits: Producers: Shai Davidai, Abbie Sophia, Adamit Productions, Naomi Landis, Emma Law-Oppman, Ilana Kalach, Allison Fuller Filmed @ The CAVE Soundstage in Hackensack and edited by Adamit Productions Graphic by Shira Auman For sponsorship opportunities, please email achi@adamitproductions.com

In this powerful episode, host Shai Davidai sits down with Vanessa Hidary, a Sephardic Jew, acclaimed spoken word artist, and Def Poetry Jam alum. Vanessa shares her journey of embracing her Jewish identity with pride and authenticity, breaking stereotypes in the spoken word scene. She discusses her upbringing in New York’s diverse neighborhoods, the creation of her signature piece “Hebrew Mamita,” and the challenges of navigating identity, representation, and community—especially in the wake of October 7th, 2023. Vanessa opens up about her experiences with anti-Semitism, the evolution of her activism, and the importance of celebrating Jewish diversity. The episode features moving poetry, honest reflections, and a message of unity and resilience. Guest: Vanessa Hidary Consider DONATING to help us continue and expand our media efforts. If you cannot at this time, please share this video with someone who might benefit from it. We thank you for your support!GofundDonate to Support the Here I Am with Shai Davidai Podcast, organized by Shai Davidai COMING SOON BUY MERCH! SUPPORT SHAI ON PATREON!PatreonGet more from Here I Am with Shai Davidai on Patreon 🔔 Subscribe now and never miss an episode📢 Follow us on social media:Instagram: hereiamwithshaidavidaiTik Tok: hereiamwithshaidavidai / hereiamwithshaidavidai 🎧 Listen to the full episode on your favorite podcast platform:RSS: RssHere I Am With Shai Davidai | Podcast on RSS.comApple Podcasts: AppleHere I Am With Shai DavidaiSpotify: SpotifyHere I Am With Shai Davidai Credits:Producers: Shai Davidai, Abbie Sophia, Adamit Productions, Naomi Landis, Emma Law-Oppman, Ilana Kalach, Allison FullerFilmed @ The CAVE Soundstage in Hackensack and edited by Adamit ProductionsGraphic by Shira AumanFor sponsorship opportunities, please email achi@adamitproductions.com

In this inspiring episode, host Shai Davidai sits down with Dr. Johnathan Donath, entrepreneur and founder of Daily Giving. Dr. Donath shares his personal journey, from his family’s legacy of generosity to the life-changing moment that inspired him to launch Daily Giving—a platform that empowers thousands to give charity every single day. Together, they discuss the power of daily acts of kindness, the impact of automated giving, and the challenges and rewards of building a global nonprofit. Dr. Donath also opens up about the emotional stories behind the charities they support, the importance of community, and the lessons he’s learned about perseverance, disappointment, and hope. Tune in for heartfelt stories, practical wisdom, and a powerful reminder of the difference one person—and one dollar a day—can make. Guest: Dr. Johnathan Donath Consider DONATING to help us continue and expand our media efforts. If you cannot at this time, please share this video with someone who might benefit from it. We thank you for your support!https://gofund.me/30c00151c COMING SOON BUY MERCH! SUPPORT SHAI ON PATREON!https://www.patreon.com/shaidavidai/about?utm_source=campaign-search-results 🔔 Subscribe now and never miss an episode📢 Follow us on social media:Instagram: hereiamwithshaidavidaiTik Tok: hereiamwithshaidavidai / hereiamwithshaidavidai 🎧 Listen to the full episode on your favorite podcast platform:RSS: https://rss.com/podcasts/hereiamwithshaidavidai/Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/here-i-am-with-shai-davidai/id1757483524Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6pI03BMwAuQDbYIy4Zp6ah?si=2bd1c3f8a11c46cd #HereIAm #ShaiDavidai #DrJohnathanDonath #DailyGiving #Charity #GivingBack #JewishCommunity #Nonprofit #Philanthropy #Kindness #Inspiration #Podcast #JewishValues #ActsOfKindness #CommunityImpact #Tzedakah #Mitzvah #Hope #Humanity #SocialGood #ChangeMakers #JewishPodcast #Generosity #MakingADifference #CharityWork #JewishLife #PersonalGrowth #Empowerment #Faith #Compassion Credits:Producers: Shai Davidai, Abbie Sophia, Adamit Productions, Naomi Landis, Emma Law-Oppman, Ilana Kalach, Allison FullerFilmed @ The CAVE Soundstage in Hackensack and edited by Adamit ProductionsGraphic by Shira AumanFor sponsorship opportunities, please email achi@adamitproductions.com

In this special episode, host Shai Davidai sits down with his nine-year-old son, O. Davidai, for a heartfelt and insightful conversation. Together, they explore what it’s like to be a kid during challenging times, discussing topics such as identity, family, activism, and the impact of the Israel-Hamas war from a child’s perspective. O. shares his feelings about participating in protests, the importance of being an “upstander,” and how kids experience and process world events differently from adults. The episode also touches on Jewish identity, the meaning of being Israeli-American, and the value of treating children with respect and honesty. This candid dialogue offers a unique, honest look at big issues through the eyes of a child, making it a must-watch for viewers of all ages. Guest: O. Davidai Consider DONATING to help us continue and expand our media efforts. If you cannot at this time, please share this video with someone who might benefit from it. We thank you for your support!https://gofund.me/30c00151c COMING SOON BUY MERCH! SUPPORT SHAI ON PATREON!https://www.patreon.com/shaidavidai/about?utm_source=campaign-search-results 🔔 Subscribe now and never miss an episode📢 Follow us on social media:Instagram: hereiamwithshaidavidaiTik Tok: hereiamwithshaidavidai / hereiamwithshaidavidai 🎧 Listen to the full episode on your favorite podcast platform:RSS: https://rss.com/podcasts/hereiamwithshaidavidai/Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/here-i-am-with-shai-davidai/id1757483524Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6pI03BMwAuQDbYIy4Zp6ah?si=2bd1c3f8a11c46cd #HereIAmPodcast #ShaiDavidai #ODavidai #PodcastInterview #JewishIdentity #IsraeliAmerican #FamilyConversation #ChildsPerspective #IsraelHamasWar #Activism #Upstander #JewishCommunity #JewishVoices #Protest #Hostages #JewishLife #JewishPride #AntiSemitism #YouthVoices #Parenting #FamilyBond #BeingJewish #JewishDiaspora #JewishCulture #JewishHeritage #PodcastEpisode #HonestConversations #KidsPerspective #CurrentEvents #Empathy #SocialJustice #JewishActivism #Hope #Optimism #TreatKidsWithRespect Credits:Producers: Shai Davidai, Abbie Sophia, Adamit Productions, Naomi Landis, Emma Law-Oppman, Ilana Kalach, Allison FullerFilmed @ The CAVE Soundstage in Hackensack and edited by Adamit ProductionsGraphic by Shira AumanFor sponsorship opportunities, please email achi@adamitproductions.com

In this powerful episode of “Here I Am,” host Shai Davidai sits down with Noa Cochva—Miss Israel 2021, IDF combat medic, and advocate. Noa shares her inspiring journey from growing up in a small Israeli village to serving as a combat medic and instructor in the IDF, including her experiences on the Gaza border during the war. She opens up about the challenges of treating both soldiers and civilians, the ethical dilemmas faced by medics, and the emotional toll of war. Noa also discusses her unexpected path to becoming Miss Israel, the viral advocacy videos she created during her reserve duty, and the impact of both support and hate she’s received online. She reflects on her family’s Holocaust legacy, her evolving Jewish identity, and her mission to inspire and unite Jewish communities worldwide. This episode is a testament to resilience, courage, and the power of using one’s voice for good. This season is dedicated to Shai’s grandmother, Leah Davidai, who passed away earlier this year. Sponsored in part by Iron Dome Coffee, visit www.irondomecoffee.com and use the code HERE I AM for an exclusive discount just for our listeners.Guest: Noa Cochva Consider DONATING to help us continue and expand our media efforts. If you cannot at this time, please share this video with someone who might benefit from it. We thank you for your support! COMING SOON BUY MERCH! SUPPORT SHAI ON PATREON!https://www.patreon.com/shaidavidai/about?utm_source=campaign-search-results 🔔 Subscribe now and never miss an episode📢 Follow us on social media:Instagram: hereiamwithshaidavidaiTik Tok: hereiamwithshaidavidai / hereiamwithshaidavidai 🎧 Listen to the full episode on your favorite podcast platform:RSS: https://rss.com/podcasts/hereiamwithshaidavidai/Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/here-i-am-with-shai-davidai/id1757483524Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6pI03BMwAuQDbYIy4Zp6ah?si=2bd1c3f8a11c46cd #HereIAm #NoaCochva #ShaiDavidai #MissIsrael #IDF #CombatMedic #WomenInTheMilitary #JewishPride #Israel #GazaWar #HolocaustSurvivor #JewishIdentity #WomenEmpowerment #Advocacy #JewishCommunity #Resilience #Courage #Peace #Coexistence #AntiSemitism #JewishHeritage #Inspiration #Podcast #JewishVoices #SupportIsrael #WomenLeaders #JewishWomen #Humanitarian #TikkunOlam #JewishUnity #JewishHistory Credits:Producers: Shai Davidai, Abbie Sophia, Adamit Productions, Naomi Landis, Emma Law-Oppman, Ilana Kalach, Allison FullerFilmed @ The CAVE Soundstage in Hackensack and edited by Adamit ProductionsGraphic by Shira AumanFor sponsorship opportunities, please email achi@adamitproductions.com

In part 2 of his conversation, host Shai Davidai sits down with Egyptian activist and scholar Dalia Ziada for an to discuss her personal journey, the complexities of Middle Eastern politics, and the aftermath of October 7th. Dalia shares her experiences facing backlash in Egypt for condemning Hamas and supporting peace with Israel, including threats to her safety and her dramatic escape from her home country. The discussion covers the role of the Muslim Brotherhood, the challenges of combating misinformation, and Dalia’s ongoing advocacy for peace and education in the US. Through her story, Dalia highlights the importance of resilience, standing up for truth, and empowering the next generation—especially young women—to be courageous and hopeful in the face of adversity. This season is dedicated to Shai’s grandmother, Leah Davidai, who passed away earlier this year. Sponsored in part by Iron Dome Coffee, visit www.irondomecoffee.com and use the code HERE I AM for an exclusive discount just for our listeners. Guest: Dalia Ziada Consider DONATING to help us continue and expand our media efforts. If you cannot at this time, please share this video with someone who might benefit from it. We thank you for your support! COMING SOON BUY MERCH! SUPPORT SHAI ON PATREON!https://www.patreon.com/shaidavidai/about?utm_source=campaign-search-results 🔔 Subscribe now and never miss an episode📢 Follow us on social media:Instagram: hereiamwithshaidavidaiTik Tok: hereiamwithshaidavidai / hereiamwithshaidavidai 🎧 Listen to the full episode on your favorite podcast platform:RSS: https://rss.com/podcasts/hereiamwithshaidavidai/Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/here-i-am-with-shai-davidai/id1757483524Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6pI03BMwAuQDbYIy4Zp6ah?si=2bd1c3f8a11c46cd #HereIAm #ShaiDavidai #DaliaZiada #Podcast #MiddleEast #Egypt #ArabSpring #CivilRights #HumanRights #Peace #AntiTerrorism #JewishMuslimDialogue #ArabIsraeliDialogue #Democracy #Activism #WomenLeaders #SocialChange #Nonviolence #Freedom #Justice #October7 #JerusalemCenter #Patreon #PodcastInterview #MiddleEastPolitics #EgyptianActivist #Coexistence #FightForPeace #Liberalism #Humanitarian #YouthMovements Credits:Producers: Shai Davidai, Abbie Sophia, Adamit Productions, Naomi Landis, Emma Law-Oppman, Ilana Kalach, Allison FullerFilmed @ The CAVE Soundstage in Hackensack and edited by Adamit ProductionsGraphic by Shira AumanFor sponsorship opportunities, please email achi@adamitproductions.com

In this powerful episode, host Shai Davidai sits down with Dalia Ziada—an Egyptian writer, civil rights activist, and outspoken critic of extremism. Dalia shares her personal journey from growing up in a conservative Egyptian society to becoming a leading voice for peace, justice, and democratic values in the Middle East. She discusses the impact of October 7th, her fight against terrorism, and the importance of standing up against hate. Dalia also reflects on her role in the Arab Spring, the challenges of promoting nonviolence, and the ongoing struggle for human rights and coexistence in the region. This conversation offers deep insights into the complexities of the Middle East and the courage it takes to advocate for change. This season is dedicated to Shai’s grandmother, Leah Davidai, who passed away earlier this year. Sponsored in part by Iron Dome Coffee, visit www.irondomecoffee.com and use the code HERE I AM for an exclusive discount just for our listeners. Guest: Dalia Ziada Consider DONATING to help us continue and expand our media efforts. If you cannot at this time, please share this video with someone who might benefit from it. We thank you for your support! COMING SOON BUY MERCH! SUPPORT SHAI ON PATREON!https://www.patreon.com/shaidavidai/about?utm_source=campaign-search-results 🔔 Subscribe now and never miss an episode📢 Follow us on social media:Instagram: hereiamwithshaidavidaiTik Tok: hereiamwithshaidavidai / hereiamwithshaidavidai 🎧 Listen to the full episode on your favorite podcast platform:RSS: https://rss.com/podcasts/hereiamwithshaidavidai/Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/here-i-am-with-shai-davidai/id1757483524Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6pI03BMwAuQDbYIy4Zp6ah?si=2bd1c3f8a11c46cd #HereIAm #ShaiDavidai #DaliaZiada #Podcast #MiddleEast #Egypt #ArabSpring #CivilRights #HumanRights #Peace #AntiTerrorism #JewishMuslimDialogue #ArabIsraeliDialogue #Democracy #Activism #WomenLeaders #SocialChange #Nonviolence #Freedom #Justice #October7 #JerusalemCenter #Patreon #PodcastInterview #MiddleEastPolitics #EgyptianActivist #Coexistence #FightForPeace #Liberalism #Humanitarian #YouthMovements Credits:Producers: Shai Davidai, Abbie Sophia, Adamit Productions, Naomi Landis, Emma Law-Oppman, Ilana Kalach, Allison FullerFilmed @ The CAVE Soundstage in Hackensack and edited by Adamit ProductionsGraphic by Shira AumanFor sponsorship opportunities, please email achi@adamitproductions.com