Advertise on podcast: JM in the AM: Interviews

Ralph Rosenbaum, chairman of the Foundation for Jewish Broadcasting, joins Nachum to discuss the foundation’s fundraising campaign and ways listeners can support Jewish broadcasting. He explains how eligible donors can use required minimum distributions for charitable gifts, potentially making them tax-free. Rosenbaum also shares stories from his surprise visit to the studio and a recent trip to Chicago, and reflects on how JM in the AM helped deepen his connection to Jewish spirituality.

Malcolm Honlein of the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations joins the weekly update to discuss uncertainty over U.S. policy toward Iran, regional security, and Israel’s military and economic challenges. He weighs the risks of easing pressure on Iran, the implications of a possible phaseout of U.S. military aid to Israel, and the changing landscape of Israeli coalition politics. Honlein also addresses Turkey’s regional ambitions, the war in Ukraine, reporting about Gaza, and threats to Jewish communities, while highlighting Israel’s support for diaspora education. He cites examples including robotic equipment for Gaza tunnels, Jewish students facing unsafe conditions in public schools, and the need for programs that help Jewish singles meet and build families.

Malcolm Hoenlein, executive vice chairman emeritus of the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations, discusses Israel’s political landscape and the prospects for a new coalition or another election. He also addresses UN politics, anti-Israel sentiment and media coverage, robotic technology in Gaza tunnels, and the Russia-Ukraine war. Hoenlein argues that political change may bring more of a shift in personalities than policy, and stresses the importance of countering misinformation and strengthening Jewish education and diaspora ties.

Nachum Segal was joined on this morning’s program by Rabbi Steven Pruzansky, Rabbi Emeritus of Congregation Bnai Yeshurun (CBY), Israel Region Vice President of the Coalition for Jewish Values (CJV), and Senior International Affairs Research Associate at the Jerusalem Center for Applied Policy (JCAP), for a conversation about the Israeli elections and latest political developments. Rabbi Pruzansky shared his perspective on the election results, the political maneuvering currently underway, and the efforts to assemble a viable governing coalition in the Knesset. Together, they examined the challenges facing Israel’s political leadership and what the coalition-building process could mean for the country’s future.

Nachum hosted Rabbi David Berk live in the studio this morning to discuss his latest Mosaica Press release "Confessions of a Flipout: Compelling narratives on various topics that seek to elevate and inspire" From Mosaica Press: Life is meant for building and growing. This collection reveals how ordinary people transform routine moments into extraordinary ones, proving that any experience carries the potential for spiritual greatness. Through heartfelt accounts of inner strength and Divine trust, we learn that every challenge is an opportunity, every blessing is a responsibility, and every day is a chance to partner with Hashem. These stories, some from the author’s personal experiences and some from others, awaken our sense of mission and the courage to embrace our purpose—filling us with gratitude for the gift of life.

Nachum Segal welcomed Malcolm Hoenlein of the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations to this morning's JM in the AM for the Weekly Update. They discussed the latest news concerning Israel and the Jewish community around the world.

Nachum welcomed Ohel CEO David Mandel to the program for an Ohel update and to preview the 57th Annual Ohel Gala coming up on Sunday, November 22nd. Ohel provides transformative social services and mental health services to communities in the New York metropolitan area, across the United States, in Israel, and around the world. Beginning as a small foster care agency for Jewish children, today Ohel cares for thousands of individuals through a broad range of programs, including housing and day programs for people with developmental and psychiatric disabilities, older adult services, trauma support for individuals, communities and schools, and counseling for everyday people with everyday problems. Ohel’s Camp Kaylie welcomes children of all abilities to a summer of inclusive fun.

Nachum Segal welcomed political analyst & TV/radio host Jake Novak back to JM in the AM to discuss the mid-term elections, confronting the escalating anti-Semitism in the US, last week's election in Israel and more.

Nachum Segal hosted Jen Airley, Co-Founder of Beit Binyamin, live in the studio during this morning's JM in the AM for an inspiring discussion about the remarkable work of Beit Binyamin and life in Israel. From Beit Binyamin: Born from loss and built on love, Beit Binyamin is a national healing home in the heart of Tzfat, created in memory of Binyamin Airley z"l. It offers soldiers, bereaved families, reservists' families, survivors and others affected by war a place to pause, rest and begin to recover, physically, emotionally and spiritually. Through warm hospitality, nourishing meals, comfortable surroundings and meaningful support, Beit Binyamin welcomes Jews from every background with the same openness and love that Binyamin showed throughout his life. This is not a memorial. It is a living declaration of hope, unity and renewal.

Nachum hosted Elie Y. Katz, former mayor of Teaneck, New Jersey, live in the studio this morning for an engaging discussion about Election Day, the issues shaping the political landscape, and the concerns and priorities of voters heading to the polls. They explored the importance of civic engagement, the responsibility of every citizen to make their voice heard, and the impact that local and national elections can have on our communities and daily lives. Nachum and Elie encouraged everyone to take an active role in the democratic process, exercise their right to vote, and make their voices count. Election Day is here—make sure to get out and vote!

Nachum and Rabbi Mordechai Kanelsky previewed the 47th Annual Bris Avrohom Dinner and Gala Wedding coming up on Sunday, November 15th. Bris Avrohom was established in 1979 by the Lubavitcher Rebbe with the directive: to support and educate Jews from the Former Soviet Union throughout the state of New Jersey — and to have open doors to every Jew seeking connection and guidance. The Rebbe has created and continuously encouraged our work, offering directives, blessings, and guidance that shaped our mission and our reach.

New Music Alert! Nachum welcomed The King of Shlock, Lenny Solomon to this morning's JM in the AM discuss his latest song releases and much more.

Nachum Segal welcomed Malcolm Hoenlein of the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations to this morning's JM in the AM for the Weekly Update. They discussed the latest news concerning Israel and the Jewish community around the world.

Nachum Segal welcomed Stuart Katz, co-founder of Shuk to the Core, to JM in the AM to discuss this unique initiative supporting Israeli artists, artisans, and small-business owners whose livelihoods have been impacted by the war. Shuk to the Core brings the spirit of Israel’s traditional marketplace to Jewish communities across North America, giving Israeli vendors the opportunity to showcase and sell their products directly to American consumers. Beyond providing vital economic support, the initiative fosters meaningful personal connections between Israeli business owners and Jewish communities abroad. Through these events, participants can share their stories, showcase their creativity, and experience firsthand the solidarity of Jews around the world. Katz discussed the importance of supporting Israel’s small businesses and the powerful role that community engagement can play in helping them rebuild and move forward.

Nachum hosted Peter Berkowsky to discuss the 42nd annual NYC Marathon Minyan coming up this Sunday, 11/1. For the 42nd year, the TCS New York City Marathon, on November 1, 2026, will feature morning services for Jewish runners of all denominations at the Fort Wadsworth (Staten Island) staging ground. We welcome all runners expected to compete in the 53rd edition of this world-famous road race.   The International Minyan for Jewish Marathoners, inaugurated in 1983, is the longest established religious service of any kind, at any major sporting event anywhere in the world