Wondering Jews with Mijal and Noam

Comedian and actor Elon Gold joins Mijal and Noam to talk about Jewish identity, cultural pride, and the impact of antisemitism on Jewish life today. Known for his appearances on Curb Your Enthusiasm and his comedy specials, Elon shares personal reflections on balancing his career with a deep connection to Judaism and Israel. Elon, Mijal and Noam also discuss Elon's new podcast, Stars of David, which launches this week and is also produced by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media.------------This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media.For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out:Jewish History NerdsUnpacking Israeli HistoryStars of David Soulful Jewish Living

In their first live episode, hosts Mijal Bitton and Noam Weissman talk to Meghan McCain—author, former co-host of The View, and podcast host. The conversation was recorded live in front of a packed audience at the Jewish Federation of North America's General Assembly in Washington, DC. Meghan McCain, the daughter of the late Senator John McCain, brings an insightful perspective on antisemitism, American politics, and her personal experiences as an ally to the Jewish community. The episode explores complex, timely themes, balancing moments of humor with serious reflections on the challenges facing Jewish communities today.------------This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media.For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out:Jewish History NerdsUnpacking Israeli HistorySoulful Jewish Living

Hosts Mijal Bitton and Noam Weissman welcome Lauren Markoe, news editor of The Forward, to discuss polls and trends among Jewish voters, many of whom live in swing states. The conversation touches on how Jewish communities navigate political divides, the challenges of public opinion, and cultural identity. Lauren highlights the heightened concern for democracy within Jewish communities, the complexity of political allegiances, and how issues such as Israel, antisemitism, and civic engagement drive Jewish voter priorities.Kenneth Wald: The Foundations of American Jewish Liberalism------------This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media.For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out:Jewish History NerdsUnpacking Israeli HistorySoulful Jewish Living

The hosts dive into the intricacies of parenting in a modern world, particularly how to discuss sensitive topics like Israel and antisemitism with children. They share personal reflections on the evolution of their beliefs and advocate for building empathy and trust through open dialogue. The challenges of generational differences in understanding Israel's history are examined, alongside practical tips for creating safe spaces for these essential conversations. Ultimately, they emphasize the importance of unconditional love while navigating complex familial dynamics.

Hosts Mijal Bitton and Noam Weissman sit down with journalist and friend, Haviv Rettig Gur to talk about what lies ahead for Israel. They discuss the many challenges Israel faces, including a regional war with new technologies, the fate of the hostages still in Gaza, an uncertain geopolitical future and deep internal divisions. Haviv, Mijal and Noam address Israel's relationship with American Jews at a time when American Jewish identity is also evolving. On this Simchat Torah, which marks one year since the Hamas attack according to the Jewish calendar, they reflect on the role of Jewish tradition after October 7th and the need to embrace difference to foster Jewish unity.Books by Micah GoodmanJonathan Haidt The Righteous Mind------------This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media.For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out:Jewish History NerdsUnpacking Israeli HistorySoulful Jewish Living

In this episode of Wondering Jews, Noam and Mijal dive into the themes of joy and happiness through the lens of the Jewish holiday of Sukkot. They explore the paradox of a festival centered on joy amidst life’s impermanence, discussing how the temporary structure of the sukkah reminds us of what truly brings happiness: relationships, community, and purpose. Along the way, they share personal confessions from their high school reading lists, memories of joyful moments, and reflections on how to balance joy with the realities of the modern world. Tune in for a thoughtful conversation about how Jewish traditions offer timeless lessons on finding joy, even in challenging times.Mijal Bitton: Committed by Mijal Bitton  | SubstackMartin Seligman: Pursuit of HappinessRobert Waldinger and Marc Schulz (Harvard study on happiness): The Good LifeNoam Weissman's Jewish Journal article about Sukkot: Living in the Joy of Sukkot------------This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media.For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out:Jewish History NerdsUnpacking Israeli HistorySoulful Jewish Living

Hosts Mijal Bitton and Noam Weissman sit down with Israeli journalist and survivor of October 7th, Amir Tibon, in a special episode commemorating the anniversary of the Hamas attack. Tibon is the author of a new book, The Gates of Gaza, that tells the story of the attack on kibbutz Nahal Oz. In their conversation, Tibon reflects on the harrowing experience hiding in a safe room with his wife and two young children and their incredible rescue aided by Tibon's 62-year-old father. The discussion focuses on the importance of storytelling to preserve the memory of October 7th, the ongoing challenges Israel faces and the need to bring back the hostages. Tibon's story inspired Mijal and Noam to reflect on grief, courage, and a renewed commitment by Jews to support one another.The Gates of GazaOne Day in October------------This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media.For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out:Jewish History NerdsUnpacking Israeli HistorySoulful Jewish Living

Hosts Mijal Bitton and Noam Weissman are back to reflect on the emotional complexity of this year’s High Holidays. They explore the tension between joy and grief during Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, and share insights from Rabbi Yoni Rosensweig. Mijal and Noam discuss how moments of collective solidarity, faith, and love for the Jewish people coexist with the pain and theological questions that arise during times of crisis. Join Mijal and Noam for a deeply thoughtful and heartfelt conversation in the first episode of the new season.Rabbi Rosensweig's letter can be found here.------------This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media.For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out:Jewish History NerdsUnpacking Israeli HistorySoulful Jewish Living

Since Oct. 7, the Jewish world has been collectively mourning — especially for the hostages still held captive in Gaza. Last week, we received the tragic news that six hostages had been cruelly murdered after surviving for nearly 11 months in captivity. In this episode of Wondering Jews, Mijal reflects on this deep loss and explores her personal feelings surrounding faith and loss, touching on tough questions of justice and divine intervention, wondering how such suffering can occur to those who loved and fought for their families. The article that Mijal references in this episode can be found here.------------This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media.For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out:Jewish History NerdsUnpacking Israeli HistorySoulful Jewish Living

Wondering Jews is on a short hiatus. We’re taking off for the rest of August and September and coming back for the High Holidays. We love hearing from you so be sure to email us at wonderingjews@jewishunpacked.com or leave us a voicemail, at (833) WON-JEWS. ------------This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media.For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out:Jewish History NerdsUnpacking Israeli HistorySoulful Jewish Living