The Kibbitz

Ahead of crucial elections in Israel, Andrea and Melissa sit down with Dr. Samuel Peleg, also known as Muli, a political sociologist and peacebuilding scholar visiting the University of Cincinnati through the Israel Institute. They explore how conflict shapes identity, why reconciliation is so hard, and what is happening inside Israeli society right now.Muli brings decades of experience in conflict resolution, negotiations, and education, and he makes a strong case that peace is not abstract idealism - it is a practical form of sanity, democracy, and shared survival.

Rabbi Austin Zoot discusses innovative approaches to Jewish education, emphasizing relationship-building, joy, inclusivity, and navigating complex topics like Zionism and the Holocaust in a meaningful way.

In this episode, Jonah Platt shares his journey from entertainment to Jewish advocacy, discussing how to foster community, combat anti-Semitism, and encourage Jewish identity in modern society.

Sarah Hurwitz shares her journey from a minimal Jewish background to rediscovering the depth of Jewish tradition, emphasizing the importance of lifelong learning and community engagement for modern Jews. This episode explores how understanding Jewish history, culture, and ethics can empower individuals and strengthen identity amidst contemporary challenges.

As summer winds down, Andrea and Melissa catch up with Melissa Frey, the Executive Director of Israel Experiences at URJ Camps and Immersives, shares insights on the history, evolution, and impact of Jewish summer camps and Israel trips. Discover how these experiences foster Jewish identity, community, and leadership among youth.

Join Andrea and Melissa as they reflect on their first year of podcasting, sharing insights on community building, Jewish identity, college decisions, and personal growth. This episode celebrates their journey, the guests they've hosted, and their hopes for the future of Jewish community engagement.The Kibbitz is part of the Jewfolk Podcast Network, a product of Jewfolk, Inc. For more information, go to jewfolk.com/podcast or email [email protected]

This week, Andrea and Melissa talk with "Andrea's Rabbi," Rabbi Sandford Kopnick of Valley Temple. The conversation explores the Jewish understanding of God, the evolution of beliefs, and how Judaism approaches morality, community, and the concept of being chosen. It offers deep insights into modern and traditional perspectives on faith, belief, and ethical living.The Kibbitz is part of the Jewfolk Podcast Network, a product of Jewfolk, Inc. For more information, go to jewfolk.com/podcast or email [email protected]

Congressman Greg Landsman joins Andrea and Melissa from Studio North! This episode features an in-depth exploration of community building, antisemitism, political strategy, and personal hope. The discussion offers valuable insights into current political and social issues, emphasizing the importance of community, trust, and resilience.The Kibbitz is part of the Jewfolk Podcast Network, a product of Jewfolk, Inc. For more information, go to jewfolk.com/podcast or email [email protected]

In today’s fast-paced world, many of us find ourselves overwhelmed by our wardrobes, often feeling like we have nothing to wear despite a closet full of clothes. In this week's episode, Andrea and Melissa sit down with Ivy Costa, a personal stylist who has dedicated her career to helping women navigate their wardrobe dilemmas and rediscover their unique style. The Kibbitz is part of the Jewfolk Podcast Network, a product of Jewfolk, Inc. For more information, go to jewfolk.com/podcast or email [email protected]

Can we really keep our kids safe on campus? The rise in antisemitism is real, and it’s coming from all directions. On a news-breaking episode of The Kibbitz, Andrea and Melissa talk with Shira Goodman from the ADL, for a deep-dive into the current landscape of antisemitism in schools, including breaking some details from the ADL's newly released Campus Antisemitism Report Card. While it’s alarming to know that our kids are facing these challenges not just online, but right in their classrooms and dorms, there is some good news: Many schools are improving their policies to protect students.The Kibbitz is part of the Jewfolk Podcast Network, a product of Jewfolk, Inc. For more information, go to jewfolk.com/podcast or email [email protected]