Podcasts are my constant companions, turning commutes and cleaning sprees into moments of laughs and learning. Lately, my listening has shifted toward what I affectionately call ”Jew Stuff”: Jewish and Israeli history, current events, and the lived experiences of Jews around the world. Here is a collection of (mostly American, apologies) favorites–plus a few I’m just starting to explore.
My Regular Rotation:
Jewish History Nerds: Engaging 30-minute stories about Jewish history – like the Khazaria conspiracy theory of Ashkenazi ancestry.
Suggested: 1. Does ‘Liberte, Fraternite, Egalite’ Include Jews? (S1E2) 2. Shabbetai Tzvi: A (Bonkers) False Messiah Story (S1E3)
JLife with Daniel: Rabbi Daniel Levine (raised Orthodox, now with pluralistic Hillel) brings a deeply open-minded approach to Jewish history, tradition, and current events. Suggested: 1. Dalia Ziada on Islam, Zionism, and Activism in the Arab Worl. 2. Kosher Controversies. 3. The Roots of Left-wing Antisemitism. Also recommended: his three-part lecture series What Makes Someone a Jew?, available on YouTube.
Ask Haviv Anything: Israeli journalist Haviv Rettig Gur blends vivid history with insightful, nuanced takes on the present. Deep knowledge, though sometimes light on providing sources. Suggested: 1.The lost history of American Jews (E2) 2. What is happening in Gaza? (E25)
Wondering Jews with Mijal and Noam: Two passionate educators offer personal, thought-provoking conversations on contemporary topics. Mijal’s take on Haredi conscription may surprise you. Suggested: 1. Zionism and Anti-Zionism + Curb Your Antisemitism (S1E5 and E6). 2. Haredim and the Israeli Army (S1E9)
Being Jewish with Jonah Platt: Actor Jonah Platt hosts inspiring conversations with well-known Jews and allies, starting each episode with a short monologue. Suggested: 1. The Key to Being Jewish & Israeli-American Activist Noa Tishby (E39). 2. My Struggle with God & Comedian Tiffany Haddish (E27)
Other Podcasts on my Radar:
Jew York Times: Funny takes on the week’s news from New York comedian Eitan Levine.
Matchmaker Matchmaker: Love and dating with Aleeza Ben Shalom (Netflix’s “Jewish Matchmaking”).
Token German-Language Podcast:
331 – 3 Frauen, 3 Religionen, 1 Thema: A Jew, a Protestant, and a Muslim discuss life and faith. I’m starting with: 1. Tradition vs. Moderne (E59) 2. 75 Jahre GG (E68).
Token Non-Jewish Podcast
Audio Dharma: Guided meditations and wisdom on managing your mind. Older episodes stream at audiodharma.org.
P.s. For a Jewish angle, try “Jewish Meditation for Everyone” from the Institute for Jewish Spirituality.