28 Aug 2025
The Trans Shooter Cover-Up
John Podhoretz and panelists discuss the media and political responses to a mass shooting committed by a trans person at a Christian school. The episode critiques the suppression of the trans aspect of the shooter's identity and calls for a broader conversation on mental health and gender issues in America.
21 Aug 2025
Familiar Touch and the Feminist Politics of Aging
Filmmaker Sarah Friedland and feminist scholar Lynne Segal explore aging through a feminist lens, inspired by the Jewish Communist community's concepts of care. They discuss the politics of aging, interdependence over self-sufficiency, and reflect on Jewish identity within the context of current global events.
12 Aug 2025
David Bashevkin: My Dating Story [Re-Release]
David Bashevkin explores the complexities of dating, sharing insights from his own journey toward balancing romantic, religious, and professional identities. Using his personal experiences, including struggles with religious evolution and navigating modern expectations, Bashevkin provides a framework for understanding commitment in relationships.
10 Jul 2025
'I touched death so many times in Gaza': Released hostage Aviva Siegel on 'screaming' for a cease-fire deal
Aviva Siegel, who was held hostage by Hamas, speaks about her traumatic experience and the ongoing struggle to secure the release of remaining hostages, including campaigning with world leaders for their freedom. She critiques the partial ceasefire deal and urges leaders to prioritize bringing all hostages home.
1 Jul 2025
Ayala Fader: How Do Haredi Jews Deal With Religious Doubt? [OTD 3/3]
Ayala Fader examines how Haredi Jews, especially within Hasidic and Yeshivish communities, engage with religious doubt, stressing the role that the internet and modern societal changes have played in this dynamic. While some members grapple with theological dissonance and existential questions in secrecy, others negotiate their place within the community, exploring a balance between personal belief and communal expectations.
26 Jun 2025
Rabba Yedida and the taxonomy of orthodoxy
Rabba Yedida Eisenstat, a recent graduate of Yeshivat Maharat, joins her co-hosts to discuss her ordination and the challenges and opportunities of women in Orthodox clergy roles. Focusing on the development of her rabbinic identity and the historical hurdles for women in Orthodox leadership, the conversation explores varying perspectives on religious titles and leadership authenticity within Judaism.
18 Jun 2025
How Keshet Changed LGBTQ+ and Jewish Life Forever
Idit Klein, the founding CEO of Keshet, reflects on her 24-year leadership journey shaping LGBTQ+ inclusion within Jewish communities, highlighting Keshet's evolution from a small Boston group to a national advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. In addition to detailing Keshet's advocacy for marriage equality and trans youth rights, Klein shares challenges like handling tensions within progressive spaces and fostering tolerance to embrace within Jewish communities.
16 Jun 2025
'A little bit dystopian': As Iran attacks, 2 Canadians describe the atmosphere in Israeli bomb shelters
Canadian tourists Maddy Eisenberg and Dave Heilbron find themselves in a harrowing situation as they spend their visit to Israel in bomb shelters due to ongoing strikes between Israel and Iran. Their original purpose of attending Tel Aviv's Pride Parade has shifted dramatically as they cope with the uncertainty of their safety and eventual return flights amid the conflict.
10 Jun 2025
What Matters Now to Rabbi Noa Sattath: Global LGBTQ+ support for Hamas
Rabbi Noa Sattath discusses the complexities surrounding global LGBTQ+ support for Hamas amidst their condemnation of Israel, especially in the context of Pride Month. Her insights delve into the history and evolution of the LGBTQ+ movement in Israel, linking it to broader democratic struggles and human rights issues, particularly relating to Palestinians.
30 Apr 2025
How to Be a Jew ... or an ally like Zarna Garg
Comedian Zarna Garg shares her journey as an Indian mom in America, discussing her strong connections to Jewish culture and her stand against antisemitism, particularly in the aftermath of October 7th. Her approach to life includes embracing humor in adversity and promoting allyship and resilience, embodying these themes in her new memoir, 'This American Woman: A One-in-a-Billion Memoir.'
23 Apr 2025
What Matters Now to Prof. Manuela Consonni: How women resisted the Nazis
Prof. Manuela Consonni highlights the multifaceted forms of resistance by Jewish and non-Jewish women during the Holocaust, focusing on physical, civic, and political resistance efforts. The discussion also touches on the complexities of using Holocaust terminology in discussing modern events, like the plight of hostages held by Hamas.
1 Apr 2025
The Samter Family: American Parents With Israeli Sons Fighting in Gaza [Divergence 2/6]
The Samter family, who made aliyah from the Five Towns, shared their experiences of transitioning from American Jewish life to Israeli culture, with two of their sons serving in the IDF. Their story highlights the contrast between American and Israeli Judaism and the deep sense of purpose and courage that comes with living and defending Israel, especially during the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
10 Mar 2025
When Life’s a Drag: A Look into the History of Jews & Cross-Dressing
The episode explores the relationship between Jews and the cross-dressing traditions, exemplified by Purim celebrations, and how these practices have influenced Jewish identity and broader cultural developments. Engaging with historical and contemporary voices, it discusses how drag has served as a means of storytelling, identity exploration, and cultural resistance within Jewish communities.
5 Mar 2025
Amichai Lau-Lavie, the 'Sabbath Queen', is forging his own traditions
Amichai Lau-Lavie, an openly gay Jewish leader, redefines Jewish spirituality by blending traditional practices with contemporary inclusivity through his creation, Lab/Shul. The podcast also explores his personal journey of reconciling his Orthodox background with his identity, and his role in Amos Gitai's documentary, Sabbath Queen.
5 Mar 2025
Amichai Lau-Lavie, the 'Sabbath Queen', is forging his own traditions
Amichai Lau-Lavie, a gay man from an Orthodox rabbinical family, discusses creating Lab/Shul, a "God-optional" experimental Jewish community in New York. Lau-Lavie shares his journey of balancing his identity with religious traditions and explains the importance of reevaluating Jewish rituals like Sabbath for contemporary spiritual needs.
5 Mar 2025
Amichai Lau-Lavie, the 'Sabbath Queen', is forging his own traditions
Amichai Lau-Lavie, a descendant of rabbis, challenges traditional Judaism by integrating his identity as an out gay man and Rabbinic figure through his innovative community, Lab/Shul. In a conversation with host Ralph Benmergui, he discusses the impact of spirituality on his life, the significance of Shabbat rituals, and the transformative potential of non-traditional approaches to Judaism.
13 Feb 2025
Serenity Now
The episode explores the complexities of modern relationships, highlighting the unrealistic expectations placed on partners and the increasing popularity of couples therapy, particularly how men are navigating societal shifts around masculinity. Daniel Oppenheimer discusses his personal journey in couples therapy and the nuances of accepting personal responsibility within a marriage, framed by his Jewish identity and ideas from therapist Terry Real.
13 Feb 2025
Is This the End of Woke Capitalism?, With Jennifer Sey
Jennifer Sey discusses her journey from a national gymnastics champion to a CEO advocating for women's rights in sports, emphasizing the challenges she faced due to her controversial views on COVID-19 policies and trans athletes in women's sports. Her conversation sheds light on corporate America's shift towards 'woke capitalism' and the personal and professional fallout she experienced for standing by her beliefs.
6 Feb 2025
Common Sense and the Liberals
The episode analyzes how American liberals have shifted from advocating common sense to embracing radical ideas, particularly in the context of gender ideology and other contemporary debates. The discussion critiques how the Democratic Party has reacted to issues like trans rights and antisemitism within its ranks, arguing that this has allowed conservatives to position themselves as the champions of common sense.
12 Dec 2024
What Matters Now to Ksenia Svetlova: Women are the canary in the Mideast coal mine
Middle East expert Ksenia Svetlova discusses the status of women's rights across the region, noting its importance as a measure of broader social freedom and stability. She highlights Tunisia as most progressive in terms of women's rights and criticizes countries like Iran for their regressive practices, while also considering future Russian influence in Syria.
5 Dec 2024
How to Change the Way We Think About Abortion, with Erica Pelman
Jewish activist Erica Pelman discusses her work with SHIFRA, an organization dedicated to supporting Jewish women facing unplanned pregnancies, and proposes a rethinking of the abortion debate beyond the "pro-choice" and "pro-life" dichotomy. She argues for a supportive approach that emphasizes listening to women's unique circumstances and providing comprehensive resources to enable informed choices.
4 Dec 2024
Netanyahu and Trump's 'creeping authoritarianism': 'It always begins and ends with women'
Women's rights in Israel and the United States are being systematically undermined by the rise of far-right religious political forces, with strategic attacks on gender equality eroding broader democratic principles. Notably, gender issues serve as both a battleground and warning sign for authoritarian agendas, underscoring the urgent need for activism and awareness.
20 Nov 2024
The Transition and the Transgendered
The Commentary Magazine Podcast discusses Trump's controversial cabinet picks, Donald Trump's policy on transgender rights and its political implications. The show explores the challenges the Democratic Party faces in moderate restructuring post-election and the complex dynamics of U.S. support for Ukraine in its war against Russia.
12 Nov 2024
Honoring Felice Gaer: A Lifelong Champion for Human Rights
Felice Gaer's extensive career in human rights advocacy is celebrated, emphasizing her influence within organizations like the American Jewish Committee’s Jacob Blaustein Institute. Her contributions to women's and human rights, including significant work at the Beijing World Conference on Women, mark her as a transformative figure in international human rights discourse.
12 Nov 2024
Game-changer: Two Jewish founders are creating a new pro women’s baseball league
Justine Siegal and Keith Stein are launching the Women's Pro Baseball League set to begin in 2026, with the aim of providing a professional platform for women in a sport that hasn't seen a professional league since the 1950s. Meanwhile, the podcast delves into the recent disturbances in Amsterdam involving Maccabi Tel Aviv supporters, raising questions about anti-Semitism and soccer hooliganism intersecting in Europe.
29 Oct 2024
11/2/24 – Shiur 487 – Should Rabbanim be teaching girls and women?
Experts discuss the complex topic of male rabbinic figures teaching female students, examining religious, social, and ethical considerations. They address the dynamics of gendered education, potential challenges, necessary boundaries, and the impact on teachers and students.
16 Oct 2024
What Matters Now: A post-October 7 women's prayer book
Az Nashir: We Will Sing Again is a newly compiled women's prayer book, edited by Shira Lankin Sheps, Anne Gordon, and Rachel Sharansky Danziger. The anthology, inspired by the distress following the October 7, 2023 attack, serves as a spiritual companion for women, blending historical traditions with modern expressions of prayer and art.
1 Oct 2024
Re-Form: Inclusivity
The episode explores how the Reform Movement's commitment to inclusivity has shaped modern Judaism, examining the milestones that have made Reform Judaism a leader in accepting diverse identities. Through engaging discussions with Rabbi Karen Perolman, the conversation highlights the potential tensions and responsibilities that come with being inclusive while maintaining traditional Jewish values.
30 Sep 2024
Emmi Polansky: Finding Agency as a Single Mother [Teshuva 4/5]
Emmi Polansky shares her intensely personal journey of finding agency and optimism as a young single mother after her marriage abruptly ended, illustrating a profound example of teshuva involving return to self-worth and divine connection. Her story resonates with themes of resilience, personal growth, and a return to spirituality and God amid adversity.
17 Sep 2024
Trailblazing artist Neshama Carlebach opens up about her next spiritual goal: the rabbinate
Neshama Carlebach discusses her journey from defying expectations in Orthodox Judaism to becoming a rabbi, inspired by recent global events and personal convictions. She reflects on her father's legacy, the challenges of raising Jewish children amidst rising antisemitism, and her dedication to fostering healing through music and spirituality.
1 Aug 2024
What Was Trump Trying to Say?
Donald Trump sparked controversy during an address to black journalists by making remarks about Kamala Harris's ethnicity. Some speculate whether his comments were a strategic move to prompt a discussion on identity politics favored by the elite that could benefit his campaign and negatively impact Harris.
19 Jul 2024
Other Positions Are Possible
The episode discusses the recent passing of sexual education pioneer Dr. Ruth Westheimer and explores her enduring influence on public sex education within Jewish and broader communities. The hosts are joined by Dr. Laurie Betito to reflect on changes in sex education, the role of Jewish culture in openness about sex, and misconceptions related to older women and sexuality.
21 Jun 2024
Kiss and Tell
Hosted by Avi Finegold and Phoebe Maltz Bovy, this episode of Bonjour Chai features an interview with Dr. Sara Glass about her memoir 'Kissing Girls on Shabbat,' exploring her journey from a Hasidic upbringing to embracing her identity as a queer woman. The episode also delves into discussions around antisemitism, societal trends, and the intersection of Jewish life and modernity.
21 Jun 2024
Kiss and Tell
Sara Glass, author of "Kissing Girls on Shabbat," discusses her journey from a strict Hasidic upbringing to embracing her identity as a queer modern Orthodox Jewish therapist. The episode also explores discussions around the portrayal of certain male actors in media, touching on themes of identity and societal trends.
30 May 2024
What Matters Now to legal expert Cochav Elkayam-Levy: Denialism of Oct. 7 sexual violence
Dr. Cochav Elkayam-Levy addresses the October 7th use of rape and sexual violence as weapons by Hamas against Israeli women and children. Her new Civil Commission aims to document these crimes amidst international indifference, highlighting the need for a robust response to such atrocities.
16 May 2024
The “Calamities, Past and Not” Edition
The episode discusses the recent Israeli military incursions in Rafah, appraising the risks and strategic intentions behind the operations, and reviews the documentary film "Screams Before Silence," which deals with gender violence perpetrated during the October 7 attacks. Additionally, they touch on Tel Aviv's millionaire demographics and celebrate Israeli resilience through humor and music.
16 Apr 2024
A Haredi Mother Sending Her Children To Serve [Divergence 4/5]
A Haredi mother, Dina, shares her experiences raising two sons who serve in the IDF, against the backdrop of a community typically not engaged in military service. Amid personal challenges and the broader context of the Israeli national crisis post-October 7th, Dina offers profound insights into parental resilience and communal unity.
25 Mar 2024
HENRIETTA SZOLD
Henrietta Szold (1860-1945) is celebrated for founding Hadassah, the Women's Zionist Organization of America, which achieved remarkable success among Zionist groups. Award-winning author Francine Klagsbrun penned a new biography titled "Henrietta Szold: Hadassah and the Zionist Dream," delving into the life of this extraordinary woman whose influence endures.
15 Mar 2024
Can't Get No Satisfaction
Adina Sash, also known as @FlatbushGirl, joins the hosts to discuss the plight of agunot, particularly highlighting the case of Malky Berkowitz, an Orthodox woman denied a religious divorce by her husband. The conversation delves into the sexual politics within the Orthodox community and Sash's activism, including her controversial methods to bring attention to the issue.
15 Mar 2024
Can't Get No Satisfaction
The episode explores the challenges faced by Orthodox women trapped in marriages due to the refusal of their husbands to grant a get, highlighting the case of Malky Berkowitz and the activism of Adina Sash, aka FlatbushGirl. The discussion delves into the societal roles and limitations within ultra-Orthodox communities, particularly focusing on gender dynamics, sexual autonomy, and the controversial idea of a mikvah strike as a form of protest.