18 Aug 2025
The Best Broadway Musicals
The hosts of the Commentary Magazine Podcast delve into their favorite Broadway musicals, exploring the specific performances and characteristics that make each significant. From personal recollections to deeper thematic discussions, this episode provides listeners with vivid analyses of beloved shows, emphasizing the impact of artistic direction and cultural context.
6 Aug 2025
It's Howard Stern's World
The podcast episode delves into the possibility of Howard Stern's retirement and his significant impact on American culture and media, drawing parallels to Donald Trump’s influence. Stern's journey from a provocative shock jock to a mainstream media figure is examined, along with the lasting cultural shifts he initiated.
22 Jul 2025
The Colbert Protest, the Hunter Tantrum
Protests erupted in New York City over CBS's cancellation of Stephen Colbert's late-night show, blending pop culture with political discourse, while Hunter Biden's interview revealed his embattled persona filled with grievance against both political allies and adversaries. The podcast explores the cultural and moral dynamics in comedy, the entertainment industry's partisan shift, and the impact of political actions on media figures and reputations.
18 Jul 2025
Epstein's Book and Colbert's Cancellation
The episode delves into the controversial birthday tribute allegedly created by Donald Trump for Jeffrey Epstein, examining its potential implications and credibility. Additionally, the episode discusses the cancellation of Stephen Colbert's late-night show, exploring the declining relevance of traditional late-night television and its political undertones.
18 Jul 2025
Epstein's Book and Colbert's Cancellation
Discussion centers around the perceived scandal involving Donald Trump and a birthday greeting to Jeffrey Epstein as well as the cancellation of Stephen Colbert's late-night show. Ellison family acquisition of CBS prompts expectations of shifts in the network's direction, particularly against anti-Zionist content associated with Colbert.
17 Jul 2025
PBS, NPR, the Fed, Wuhan, and 'Jaws'
Discussing current Republican political strategies, the podcast delves into how the GOP, under Trump's leadership, bucked traditional political norms to enact significant conservative policies, from defunding NPR and PBS to moving the U.S. embassy to Jerusalem. Additionally, the episode celebrates the 50th anniversary of the blockbuster film "Jaws," examining its cultural impact and the serendipitous circumstances of its production.
17 Jul 2025
PBS, NPR, the Fed, Wuhan, and 'Jaws'
The podcast explores the implications of recent legislation impacting public broadcasting funding and the concept of political will's power in circumventing the traditional Washington consensus. It also celebrates the enduring impact of Jaws on cinema, discussing the film's production challenges and cultural significance.
24 Jun 2025
What Matters Now to director Daniel Syrkin: How 'Tehran' season 4 reflects Israel-Iran war
Daniel Syrkin, director of the TV series 'Tehran', discusses the show's connection to Israel-Iran tensions amidst ongoing geopolitical conflicts. He shares insights into the challenges of producing content that mirrors current events and the emotional impacts on Iranian actors involved in the project.
26 May 2025
Special Podcast: In Praise of 'Andor'
Hosts John and Matt Continetti delve into the unique appeal of the Star Wars spinoff series, 'Andor,' highlighting its gripping storytelling and unusual depth in character development. Despite ideological differences, they commend the show for integrating sophisticated political themes without detracting from the series' entertainment value.
14 May 2025
How to Be a Jew ... Who Says Yes to the Dress
Pnina Tornai, renowned Israeli wedding dress designer and star of TLC's 'Say Yes to the Dress,' discusses her unexpected journey from Paris to becoming a global fashion icon and her integral role in showcasing Israeli creativity on the world stage. She reflects on the spiritual significance of her work and shares personal tales of guidance and support, highlighting her commitment to infusing bridal fashion with emotional depth and cultural representation.
6 May 2025
Lights! Camera! Tariffs!
The discussion primarily focuses on Trump's tariff plan on foreign films, deeming it impractical and misguided, while delving into broader issues surrounding the U.S. film industry's migration from California due to unfavorable tax policies. Moreover, the episode touches on the tensions in the Middle East, highlighting Israel's military actions and the precarious U.S. approach towards the Houthis in Yemen.
2 Apr 2025
How to Be a Jew … Like Ayelet Zurer
Ayelet Zurer discusses her portrayal of Ahinoam, a complex biblical character, emphasizing themes of motherhood, identity, and faith. The episode explores how television can offer new interpretations of ancient stories, particularly the roles of women in biblical narratives.
12 Mar 2025
How to Be a Jew ... And an Accidental Gunslinger
Salvador Litvak, the "Accidental Talmudist," discusses his new film "Guns and Moses," about a small-town rabbi who becomes a gunslinger following an attack on his community. Litvak also shares his journey to observant Judaism and the challenges of accurately representing Jewish characters in media.
11 Mar 2025
David Bashevkin: 5 Things SNL Taught Me About Life (Purim Special)
David Bashevkin reflects on the significance of comedy, particularly through Saturday Night Live's legacy, drawing lessons for Jewish life and community. Using Lorne Michaels' approach, Bashevkin emphasizes the value of creativity, tradition, and seizing imperfect opportunities in personal and communal growth.
5 Mar 2025
How to Be a Jew … like a Shtisel
Yehonatan Indursky returns with a new prequel to 'Shtisel' called 'Kugel,' highlighting the rich narrative of Libbi and her father Nuchem Shtisel in Antwerp. Hadas Yaron, playing Libbi, shares insights into this fresh portrayal and the relevance of diverse Jewish narratives, reflecting on the show's impact in strengthening Jewish identity.
5 Mar 2025
How to Be a Jew … like a Shtisel
In this episode, the team discusses the new streaming show 'Kugel,' a prequel to the popular series 'Shtisel.' Actress Hadas Yaron shares insights on her role and the series' impact on Jewish culture.
28 Feb 2025
It's a Conspiracy!
In this episode, the hosts discuss former President Trump's erratic statements on Ukraine and Zelensky, revealing the volatile nature of his foreign policy. They also critique the political undertones expected at the Oscars, particularly in relation to Israel and Gaza, and comment on the dubious release of Jeffrey Epstein's documents, questioning the integrity and transparency of those involved.
27 Feb 2025
What Matters Now to critic Jordan Hoffman: 5 films for Jews to follow at the Oscars
Film critic Jordan Hoffman discusses five Oscar-nominated films with Jewish or Israeli themes, amid a backdrop of ongoing conflict and controversy. These films include dramas on the Holocaust, antagonism in Hollywood regarding Jewish representation, and complex interplays of Palestinian-Jewish narratives.
24 Feb 2025
LOUIS B. MAYER AND IRVING THALBERG
Louis B. Mayer and Irving Thalberg's partnership significantly shaped Hollywood's development, exemplified by their work on iconic films that married business acumen with creative vision. Film critic Kenneth Turan discusses their impactful collaboration alongside the tensions and eventual fallout that defined their legacy in the film industry.
20 Feb 2025
An Unproductive Ambiguity
The podcast episode discusses the film "The Brutalist," exploring its depiction of Israel and Zionism as a hopeful escape from antisemitism for Holocaust survivors in the U.S. Participants critique the film's narrative of Jewish life post-Holocaust and its political ambiguity, particularly regarding the treatment of Zionism and racial assimilation in America.
10 Feb 2025
Trump at the Super Bowl
The episode critically examines the political dynamics of Trump's appearance at the Super Bowl and his administration's strategies towards federal overspending, including Doge's controversial role in targeting federal agencies. Discussions touch upon the implications of tariffs, government reform, public opinion, and the polarized reaction to Trump's approach, juxtaposed with international issues like the Israeli hostages' situation.
31 Jan 2025
Why Did the Nazi Cross the Road?
Elon Musk's controversial Nazi jokes on social media have sparked a debate on the boundaries of humor, especially in the context of far-right movements and online troll culture. Hosts Phoebe Maltz Bovy, Avi Finegold, and Michael Fraiman discuss the complexities of Nazi jokes, the evolution of comedic contexts, and the impact of online culture on perceptions of Nazism.
23 Jan 2025
What Matters Now to Adir Miller and mom Marianne: Getting the last laugh after the Holocaust
Adir Miller's film "The Ring," inspired by his mother Marianne's incredible Holocaust survival story, showcases the intertwining of humor and tragedy in their lives. Marianne reflects on her journey from silence to a powerful mission to educate about the Holocaust, culminating in her address to the United Nations for International Holocaust Remembrance Day.
8 Jan 2025
How to Be a Jew ... like Jesse Eisenberg
Jesse Eisenberg discusses his new film, "A Real Pain," which explores themes of grief and memory against a Holocaust backdrop, portraying these weighty topics through a nuanced, personal lens. The episode delves into the complexities of conveying Jewish experiences in film, with insights from Eisenberg on writing without self-censorship and capturing the modern Jewish psyche.
30 Dec 2024
Jewish Studies Unscrolled: American Horror and Sidney Lumet’s film The Pawnbroker (1964), with Jeremy Dauber
Jeremy Dauber explores the intersection of Holocaust trauma and horror in Sidney Lumet's 1964 film The Pawnbroker, discussing its portrayal of Sol Nazerman's haunting memories manifested through a "thin place" in the New York subway. The episode delves into the film's innovative depiction of post-traumatic stress and its cultural implications within American and Jewish narratives.
27 Dec 2024
What Do We Podcasters Read?
The Commentary Magazine Podcast episode delves into how hosts prepare for their daily sessions, revealing a mix of extensive reading and casual spontaneity, along with some light-hearted banter about favorite vacation spots. The discussion highlights the diverse sources presented by contributors such as the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and specialized newsletters that help shape informed podcast conversations.
24 Dec 2024
Taylor Sheridan’s World
The episode delves into the political and cultural themes explored by Taylor Sheridan, highlighting his unique anti-woke approach in Hollywood productions like 'Yellowstone' and 'Landman.' The discussion also focuses on Sheridan's impact on popular culture and how his narratives resonate with audiences disenchanted with the mainstream portrayal of American life.
23 Dec 2024
Best TV of 2024
The hosts of The Commentary Magazine Podcast discuss their favorite TV shows from 2024, highlighting both scripted and unscripted content across various streaming platforms. Discussions include a mix of genuine recommendations, audience-engaging banter, and humorous anecdotes about the shows' plots and characters.
16 Dec 2024
ABC Gives Trump $15 Million
ABC's $15 million settlement with Donald Trump over George Stephanopoulos's incorrect statement on rape allegations is a significant moment reflecting the mainstream media's shifting stance towards Trump. This podcast episode delves into the implications of this settlement for media accountability, highlighting the changing dynamics in media and politics as trust in institutions wanes.
12 Dec 2024
The Road from Damascus - with Richard Haass and Alexis Bloom
Yonit and Jonathan discuss the implications of the Assad regime's sudden fall in Syria and explore the ongoing corruption trial of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. They engage with US foreign policy expert Richard Haass and filmmaker Alexis Bloom, examining the shifting geopolitics of the Middle East and the influence of Netanyahu's legal battles on his leadership.
6 Dec 2024
Whose Banana Republic Is This Anyway?
The podcast episode delves into discussions surrounding how certain political behaviors echo traits of banana republics, with a particular focus on proposed preemptive pardons by the Biden administration and the resultant normalization of this practice by the liberal media. It also examines the challenges faced by the left in creating a media figure with broad appeal similar to that of Joe Rogan, as well as the effects of alternative media on traditional outlets.
5 Dec 2024
Jesse Eisenberg's Holocaust Road Trip
Arielle Angel, Maia Ipp, and Menachem Kaiser discuss the film "A Real Pain," exploring its depiction of millennial Jewish identity amidst Holocaust themes. They critique the film for lacking depth in both narrative and exploration of its sensitive subject matter, though they find its deviation from typical Holocaust narratives insightful.
28 Nov 2024
'My Dead Mom' gives the nagging Jewish mother trope a haunting twist
Wendy Litner's web series "My Dead Mom" humorously explores the continuing presence of her late mother's critical voice, addressing Jewish mother stereotypes with a feminist angle. Hosts Ilana and David share personal stories on processing grief through art and discuss current Jewish art events in Canada.
20 Nov 2024
Filmmaker Allan Novak turns the camera on his family: the oldest living Holocaust survivors in the world
Veteran filmmaker Allan Novak created "Crossing the River: From Poland to Paradise," a documentary about his family, the world's oldest living Holocaust survivor siblings who remarkably survived by being deported to Siberia. Novak shares the resilient and life-affirming story of his family, their survival without witnessing the atrocities of concentration camps, and their eventual thriving life in Canada.
14 Nov 2024
Gaetz Tulsi RFK: An Infernal Golden Braid
The episode delves into the controversial appointment of Matt Gaetz as Attorney General and Tulsi Gabbard as Director of National Intelligence in the Trump administration, sparking discussions on their potential impact on national policies. The episode also explores the broader implications of these appointments on American politics, focusing on issues like partisanship, governance, and the media’s portrayal of political figures.
23 Oct 2024
If Harris Wants to Win, She Has to Try
The episode explores the challenges facing Kamala Harris in the 2024 U.S. presidential election against Donald Trump, particularly in light of media tactics and perceptions. Discussion also includes reflection on the biased political landscape and the use of media power by influential figures like Elon Musk.
23 Oct 2024
If Harris Wants to Win, She Has to Try
Kamala Harris struggles to articulate a winning strategy in her campaign while Donald Trump's numbers inch upwards in public opinion, despite controversial statements and historical media portrayal. The episode also examines the mainstream media's credibility issues and the evolving political dynamics, especially in relation to social media influence and international relations in the context of U.S. politics.
22 Oct 2024
How Eva Almos channels the spirit of her survivor mother in an audio drama about Holocaust zombies
Eva Almos, a voice actress and daughter of Holocaust survivors, illuminates how her mother's positivity amidst trauma influenced her latest work on an audio drama about Holocaust zombies. Her candid discussion reveals the intersection of personal history, therapy, and storytelling in grappling with generational trauma and finding creative inspiration.
11 Oct 2024
Dishy Vicar
A new Netflix series highlights the complexities of interfaith relationships through a non-Jewish character falling for a young rabbi, sparking discussions about representation and Jewish women's portrayal. The episode explores these themes with Meghan Daum, drawing parallels to earlier cultural narratives and critiques of Jewish identity.
10 Oct 2024
Biden vs. Harris
The discussion revolves around the perceived tension between President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, with speculation on Biden possibly undermining Harris and Harris's struggles in handling media and public appearances. The episode also addresses a brewing controversy at CBS regarding journalistic practices and the fallout of an interview questioning author Ta-Nehisi Coates' views on Israel.