6 Feb 2025
The Rule of Pshat & Rashi
Rabbi Arnie Wittenstein explores the complexities of understanding Tanakhic Hebrew, emphasizing the importance of knowing precise meanings of words in biblical exegesis. The episode delves into why Rashi penned an introduction to Shir HaShirim and not to other works like Kohelet.
12 Jan 2023
Hitting the Road: Ep. 344
This episode of Unorthodox features a Yiddish singing sensation Mendel Goldman, followed by the debut of their new series "Across the JEW.S.A." where Liel visits Wilmington, Delaware, to explore Jewish community building. The Gentile of the Week is Jonathon Stalls, a walker and writer who discusses his book and journey across America at a slow pace. The podcast encourages listener participation and announces new merchandise. Additionally, upcoming events and newsletters are promoted for further engagement.
8 Jul 2021
The “Put a Sock in It!” Edition
Allison Kaplan Sommer, Ohad Zeltzer-Zubida, and Noah Efron cover significant topics in Israel, such as settlers peacefully evacuating a West Bank outpost as a compromise reflecting the new government's style, Reuven Rivlin's legacy after serving as the country's president for seven tumultuous years, and a controversial ruling on Hebrew grammar by the Academy for the Hebrew Language. The trio also touch on heartwarming moments in Israel, including the unique talent of Masok.
26 Feb 2021
Purim, Vaccine Diplomacy and the 'Non-campaign Campaign'
In the context of Israel's vaccine diplomacy, where it is gifting vaccines to diplomatic allies, there is internal and international concern. Netanyahu's political opponents are notably absent in the lead-up to the elections. Additionally, Yonit and Jonathan mark Purim with a 'dress up' contest featuring Hebrew and British idioms.
15 Feb 2021
Idiomatic Expression
Robert Berman, an American Jewish immigrant in Israel, authored a book on Arabic idioms titled "Min Taq Taq: A Collection of Arabic Idioms" with editor Christy Bandak. The book delves into the meanings of idioms like "his face is good on me" in Arabic, and notably includes a chapter dedicated to idioms related to fingers.
2 Oct 2020
I pulled some schlepp and kibbitzed my way into a great chat with Yiddish king Michael Wex of Born to Kvetch fame.
Renowned Yiddish expert Michael Wex, known for his work in preserving the Yiddish language, has authored several books including "Born to Kvetch." In a recent conversation on the podcast "Not That Kind of Rabbi," Wex discusses his efforts to maintain and promote Yiddish. His passion for the language and culture shines through in this engaging chat, making it worth a listen for those interested in Yiddish heritage.
15 Nov 2019
Gaza Flare-Up, Fiddler in Yiddish
Terrorists launched hundreds of rockets from Gaza into Israel in response to the killing of a Palestinian Islamic Jihad leader. Avi Issacharoff and Judah Ari Gross analyze the recent events. The discussion shifts to the Yiddish version of "Fiddler on the Roof," featuring Zalmen Mlotek and Steven Skybell, shedding light on the successful off-Broadway production.
10 Oct 2019
The “Language of a Common Dream” Edition
In a discussion led by Allison Kaplan Sommer, Noah Efron, and Jeremy Benstein, the trio explores the impact of Hebrew language on global Jewish unity, the potential repercussions of a third Knesset election, and the portrayal of Jewish identity in media. They touch on the question of whether Hebrew is still a unifying force today or a divisive one, debate the necessity of a third Israeli election, and delve into the depiction of Jewish concepts in popular culture. Additionally, they discuss the role of politics in sermons on Yom Kippur. The conversation is enriched by music performances from Yuval Mendelson and The Lobsters.
10 Oct 2019
The “Language of a Common Dream” Edition
Allison Kaplan Sommer, Noah Efron, and Jeremy Benstein discuss the impact of the Hebrew language on uniting or dividing Jews globally, the potential consequences of a third Knesset election in Israel, and the portrayal of Jewish identity in popular media like "Transparent." They also touch on the debate over political sermons on Yom Kippur and share uplifting anecdotes from Israel. The discussion delves into topics of language, politics, identity, and cultural trends among Jews, with musical interludes by Yuval Mendelson and The Lobsters.
30 May 2019
The Book of Schmutz: Ep. 183
In this episode of The Book of Schmutz, the hosts interview Jackie Hoffman, who plays Yenta in a Yiddish production of Fiddler on the Roof, and Motl Didner, the associate artistic director of the National Yiddish Theatre Folksbiene. They discuss Hoffman's experience learning lines in Yiddish and her favorite role, as well as Didner teaching Yiddish phrases. Additionally, they speak with Bram Presser about his novel The Book of Dirt, which unveils his Holocaust survivor grandfather's wartime story and his Yiddish punk background with the band Yidcore. The episode also announces an upcoming event in Chicago with special guest Blair Braverman, the second Jewish woman to complete the Iditarod.
4 Oct 2018
Texting with Barney Miller: Ep. 152
Hal Linden and Ryan Ochoa, known for their roles in the new film "The Samuel Project," discuss their intergenerational movie where a Jewish grandfather and grandson bond over a school project revealing the grandfather's survival story. Linden, famed for playing Barney Miller, has mentored Ochoa in transitioning to more serious roles, highlighting their real-life friendship. The podcast also features a Yiddish for Dogs workshop and encourages listener submissions on Jewish superstitions. Follow Unorthodox on social media for more content and check out their merchandise.
2 Aug 2018
If I Were a Fiddler: Ep. 145
In episode 145 of "If I Were a Fiddler," the focus is on the Yiddish production of Fiddler on the Roof, titled Fidler afn Dakh. Rachel Zatcoff, who plays Tzeitel, and James Monroe tevko, who plays Mendl, share insights on learning Yiddish for the show and their experiences working with the director and fellow cast members. Alisa Solomon, author of Wonder of Wonders: A Cultural History of Fiddler on the Roof, provides commentary on the cultural importance of the play, originally opening on Broadway in 1965, and its roots in Sholem Aleichem's stories. The episode invites listeners to share feedback and highlights the opportunity to attend a lecture on religion in America.
22 Jun 2018
Babel in Zion: The Inculcation of Hebrew in Pre-State Israel
Dr. Liora Halperin discusses the inculcation of the Hebrew language in pre-State Israel with a focus on the ideological and practical elements involved during the period of 1920-1948. The conversation delves into how Hebrew was promoted and utilized within the Zionist movement, shedding light on its significance for Jews in Palestine at the time.
4 Jan 2018
The "Likud's Settlement-Schizoid New Year's Resolutions” Edition
In a podcast discussion by Noah Efron, Allison Kaplan Sommer, and Miriam Herschlag, they explore significant topics, including Likud's contradictory statements on settlements in Palestinian territories at the end of 2017. They also delve into the fear of Arabic in Israel and discuss a poll on aspects of Israeli identity. The episode ends with a heartwarming anecdote from Israel. The podcast covers various issues with insights and anecdotes, offering a nuanced view of Israeli society.
18 Dec 2017
Is It OK to Call Someone a 'Jew'?
In this bonus episode of Unorthodox, host Mark Oppenheimer discusses the discomfort surrounding the use of the word "Jew" as a noun, sparked by Kayla Moore's controversial remarks. The conversation explores historical and contemporary contexts of the term, its implications, and why it can serve as both a proud identity marker and a potential slur.
24 Aug 2017
Birthright for WASPs?: Ep. 102
Linguist Sarah Bunin Benor discusses the linguistic 'tells' of Orthodox Jews in the podcast episode, highlighting how they may code switch based on their audience. She shares insights from her research on Orthodox Judaism. Architect WASP Duo Dickinson talks about his experiences as a white Christian male in America and poses the question of whether week-long trips to Vermont are akin to Birthright for WASPs, alluding to a Jewish cultural experience. The episode delves into language, culture, and identity in the context of religious and secular communities.
24 Aug 2017
Birthright for WASPs?: Ep. 102
This episode of Unorthodox features a conversation with linguist Sarah Bunin Benor on the unique elements of Orthodox Jewish language and the nuances of linguistic code-switching in religious communities. Architect Duo Dickinson also discusses his book about New England and the cultural identity of WASPs, raising intriguing comparisons to the Jewish Birthright experience.
15 Jun 2017
Talking Jewish With Lexicon Valley: Ep. 94
This episode of Unorthodox features a crossover with Lexicon Valley's host, John McWhorter, delving into the nuances of Jewish English and exploring whether it constitutes a distinct dialect. The conversation blends humorous insights into Jewish vernacular, such as 'Yeshivish,' with broader discussions about linguistic identity and cultural markers within Jewish communities.
15 Jun 2017
Talking Jewish With Lexicon Valley: Ep. 94
In a special crossover episode with Lexicon Valley, linguist John McWhorter joins the discussion on 'Unorthodox' to delve into the concept of Jewish English, the nuances of yeshivish, and the memorable dinner scene from 'Annie Hall.' Topics include exploring the linguistic features unique to Jewish communities and the interplay between language, culture, and identity. Listeners can expect a lively conversation that bridges language and Jewish experience.
24 May 2017
On the [Jew] Media
In this episode, Mark Oppenheimer discusses the nuanced perceptions and historical context of the word 'Jew' with Brooke Gladstone. The conversation centers on reclaiming 'Jew' from its derogatory connotations and embracing it as a marker of identity.
24 May 2017
On the [Jew] Media
Mark Oppenheimer, host of Unorthodox, has raised the question of the word "Jew" versus "Jewish" in a recent op-ed for The New York Times, highlighting the debate over whether "Jew" is still viewed as a slur or if it should be reclaimed. He suggests reclaiming the term. Oppenheimer discussed his op-ed with Brooke Gladstone on On the Media, emphasizing the importance of this distinction. This conversation is available for further exploration, while the next Unorthodox episode will air on May 25. Feedback can be shared at Unorthodox@tabletmag.com.
13 Oct 2016
Guilt Trip: Ep. 61
In episode 61 of Unorthodox, the hosts celebrate Yiddish culture with guest Gitl Schaechter Viswanath, co-author of the Comprehensive English-Yiddish Dictionary, which modernizes the language with new terms like 'sexting.' The Gentile of the Week, actress Tessa Kim, discusses her show about grappling with her German identity in New York. The episode is sponsored by Harrys and the film Denial, portraying a woman fighting Holocaust denial.
13 Oct 2016
Guilt Trip: Ep. 61
In this episode of Unorthodox, the hosts explore modern adaptations of Yiddish language with Gitl Schaechter Viswanath, and delve into German identity and historical guilt with Tessa Kim. Discussions also touch on the intersection of Jewish culture with current events, including a chess controversy in Iran and the correct attribution of a famous humanitarian quote.
4 Jan 2016
The Israeli vernacular & the limits of education
Prof. Ghil'ad Zuckermann and Dr. Gitit Holzmann delve into the complexities and constraints of the revival of the Hebrew language, a core element of the Zionist project, examining its implications on education, linguistics, and politics. Emphasizing the significance and challenges of Israeli vernacular, they explore how Hebrew shapes identity and society. This discussion, sponsored by The Van Leer Jerusalem Institute, sheds light on the intricate interplay between language revitalization and cultural discourse in Israel.
6 Aug 2015
"The Other Side of Israel" Edition
In the podcast episode "The Other Side of Israel," Noah and guest Sandy Fox explore the diverse Israeli music scene as a reprieve from troubling news. They highlight the rich mosaic of authentic Israeli music spanning various languages including Arabic, French, Russian, Amharic, and more, showcasing the beauty and diversity of Israeli musical culture. The episode features tracks from artists like Ruba Shamshoum, Riff Cohen, Dudu Tassa, A-Wa, and Balkan Beat Box, among others, offering a mix of traditional and contemporary sounds that celebrate Israel's multicultural heritage.
26 Jun 2015
Babel in Zion: The inculcation of Hebrew in pre-state Israel
Dr. Liora Halperin, a professor at the University of Colorado Boulder, discusses the promotion of the Hebrew language in pre-state Israel with host Gilad Halpern. The conversation delves into both the ideological and practical significance of this linguistic endeavor during the years 1920-1948, shedding light on the complex interplay between language, nationalism, and Jewish identity in Palestine during that period.
19 Jun 2014
Losing Patience, Losing Power, & Losing Dignity
In this episode of the Promised Podcast, the hosts address the complexity of the recent West Bank teen kidnappings. They steer away from the topic due to its exploitation without sufficient facts, following Wittgenstein's idea of silence on the unspeakable. The discussion touches on the diminishing tolerance towards settlers in Israel, reflected in a poll supporting settlements, and questions Netanyahu's stance as an obstructionist in the peace process. They also critique excessive enthusiasm for international artists performing in Israel. The episode includes music from Baladino, singing in Ladino on their album "Dos Amantes."