Advertise on podcast: Here I Am With Shai Davidai

In this special episode of Here I Am, social media manager Allison Fuller flips the script and interviews host Shai Davidai. Shai opens up about his journey from growing up in Israel and Romania to becoming one of the most visible voices fighting antisemitism after October 7th. He shares how a "split screen" reality of horror in Israel and celebrations of Hamas on his campus at Columbia pushed him to speak out, guided by three words: "Why not me?" The conversation explores his identity as both a proud atheist and deeply committed Jew, why he got Hebrew tattoos as an act of visible resistance, and his belief that hatred should be treated like an addiction rather than a valid emotion. Shai reflects on nearly 100 episodes of interviews and identifies four traits shared by every activist who's sat in his chair: conviction, curiosity, courage, and community. He urges listeners to be part of that community, whether loudly on the front lines or quietly supporting those who are, and closes with his guiding principle for the podcast and for life: no hate, no lies. The episode also highlights the podcast's fundraising efforts and recommends donating to Brothers for Life, an organization supporting wounded Israeli combat soldiers. Guest: Shai Davidai Consider DONATING to help us continue and expand our media efforts. If you cannot at this time, please share this video with someone who might benefit from it. We thank you for your support! https://gofund.me/30c00151c BUY MERCH! https://hereiam.threadless.com/ SUPPORT SHAI ON PATREON! https://www.patreon.com/shaidavidai/about?utm_source=campaign-search-results 🔔 Subscribe now and never miss an episode 📢 Follow us on social media: Instagram: hereiamwithshaidavidai Tik Tok: hereiamwithshaidavidai / hereiamwithshaidavidai 🎧 Listen to the full episode on your favorite podcast platform: RSS: https://rss.com/podcasts/hereiamwithshaidavidai/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/here-i-am-with-shai-davidai/id1757483524 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6pI03BMwAuQDbYIy4Zp6ah?si=2bd1c3f8a11c46cd #HereIAmPodcast #ShaiDavidai #jewishidentity #zionisme #FightingAntisemitism #october7th #JewishActivism #columbiauniversity #neveragain #jewishpride #israelsupport #NoHateNoLies #jewishcommunity #proisrael #AntisemitismAwareness #JewishResistance #whynotme #ConvictionCuriosityCourageCommunity #AtheistAndJewish #JewishTattoos #HebrewTattoos #VisibleJew #jewishpodcast #standwithisrael #jewishhistory #HatredIsAnAddiction #WorkInProgressJew #brothersforlife #JewishActivist #AmplifyVoices #ThisIsWhatAZionistLooksLike #jewishdiaspora #ShabbatKeeping #PragmaticJudaism #jewishstories #JewishResilience #NeverHideYourIdentity #CombatAntisemitism #jewishunity #hereiam Credits: Producers: Shai Davidai, Abbie Sophia, Adamit Productions, Allison Fuller, Josh Tepper, Bonnie Berkovits Filmed @ The CAVE Soundstage in Hackensack and edited by Adamit Productions

In this episode of Here I Am, host Shai Davidai sits down with Jewish advocate, organizer, and "campus mom" Valerie Gerstein, who shares her firsthand experience confronting antisemitism as a graduate student at Columbia University. Valerie, a granddaughter of Holocaust survivors and lifelong Jewish community leader, enrolled in Columbia's nonprofit management master's program in her 40s in 2022, only to witness a dramatic shift on campus after October 7th. She recounts facing anti-Jewish bias in the classroom even before the attacks, including a professor who chose Yom Kippur to assign anti-Israel readings when no Jewish students were present, and details how her complaints were ignored at every institutional level. Valerie ultimately became one of the named plaintiffs in a landmark civil rights lawsuit against Columbia, which recently resulted in a settlement. She discusses the personal cost of speaking up, from losing friends to needing a bodyguard, and the wins secured through the case: scholarships for students who've lived or studied in Israel, adoption of the IHRA definition of antisemitism, and the appointment of a Title VI coordinator. A powerful conversation about standing proud, showing up for the next generation, and refusing to be silenced. Guest: Valerie Gerstein Consider DONATING to help us continue and expand our media efforts. If you cannot at this time, please share this video with someone who might benefit from it. We thank you for your support! https://gofund.me/30c00151c BUY MERCH! https://hereiam.threadless.com/ SUPPORT SHAI ON PATREON! https://www.patreon.com/shaidavidai/about?utm_source=campaign-search-results 🔔 Subscribe now and never miss an episode 📢 Follow us on social media: Instagram: hereiamwithshaidavidai Tik Tok: hereiamwithshaidavidai / hereiamwithshaidavidai 🎧 Listen to the full episode on your favorite podcast platform: RSS: https://rss.com/podcasts/hereiamwithshaidavidai/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/here-i-am-with-shai-davidai/id1757483524 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6pI03BMwAuQDbYIy4Zp6ah?si=2bd1c3f8a11c46cd #HereIAmPodcast #ShaiDavidai #ValerieGerstein #ColumbiaUniversity #AntisemitismOnCampus #JewishAdvocacy #CampusMom #CivilRights #JewishCommunity #HolocaustSurvivors #NeverAgain #JewishMom #JewishLeadership #TitleVI #IHRADefinition #ColumbiaLawsuit #JewishStudents #StandUpForJews #JewishPride #Israel #Zionism #CampusAntisemitism #HigherEducation #JewishLife #CombatAntisemitism #JewishIdentity #Sukkot #Shabbat #JewishValues #LifelongLearner #UJAFederation #NonprofitManagement #JewishEducation #StandWithIsrael Credits: Producers: Shai Davidai, Abbie Sophia, Adamit Productions, Allison Fuller, Josh Tepper, Bonnie Berkovits Filmed @ The CAVE Soundstage in Hackensack and edited by Adamit Productions

In this episode of Here I Am, Shai sits down with Nate Shalev, co-founder of Shalom Dykes, an organization creating safe, inclusive, and joyful spaces for Jewish LGBTQ dykes. Nate shares their decade-long journey organizing with the NYC Dyke March, a community that once championed inclusion for all, and how everything shifted after October 7th when conversations about Israel within the march's leadership broke down, anti-Zionism was embedded into the organization's values, and Jewish members were effectively pushed out. Rather than counter-protesting, Nate channeled that loss into building something new. Shalom Dykes launched with no idea who would show up, only to draw hundreds, then 600, then 2,500 signatures on an open letter. Nate reflects on what it means to need your community's safe spaces while being told you no longer belong in them, the painful double life of watching a wife check hostage lists each morning while colleagues with no personal connection to the conflict demanded performative statements, and why building joyful, visible Jewish queer community is itself an act of resistance and hope. Guest: Nate Shalev, Co-founder of Shalom Dykes Consider DONATING to help us continue and expand our media efforts. If you cannot at this time, please share this video with someone who might benefit from it. We thank you for your support! https://gofund.me/30c00151c BUY MERCH! https://hereiam.threadless.com/ SUPPORT SHAI ON PATREON! https://www.patreon.com/shaidavidai/about?utm_source=campaign-search-results 🔔 Subscribe now and never miss an episode 📢 Follow us on social media: Instagram: hereiamwithshaidavidai Tik Tok: hereiamwithshaidavidai / hereiamwithshaidavidai 🎧 Listen to the full episode on your favorite podcast platform: RSS: https://rss.com/podcasts/hereiamwithshaidavidai/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/here-i-am-with-shai-davidai/id1757483524 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6pI03BMwAuQDbYIy4Zp6ah?si=2bd1c3f8a11c46cd #HereIAmPodcast #ShaiDavidai #NateShalev #ShalomDykes #JewishLGBTQ #QueerJews #DykeMarch #NYCDykeMarch #JewishCommunity #LGBTQ #TransJewish #NonBinary #JewishPride #QueerPride #Zionism #JewishIdentity #October7 #Antisemitism #QueerCommunity #JewishQueer #LGBTQJews #CommunityBuilding #JewishDykes #Inclusion #Belonging #QueerSpaces #JewishSpaces #GrassrootsOrganizing #LGBTQRights #TransRights #JewishActivism #QueerActivism #DykeVisibility #JewishJoy #QueerJoy #Coalition #SafeSpaces #JewishResilience #LGBTQCommunity #Pride #IsraeliLGBTQ #TheAguda #QueerJewish #JewishResistance #BuildingCommunity Credits: Producers: Shai Davidai, Abbie Sophia, Adamit Productions, Allison Fuller, Josh Tepper, Bonnie Berkovits Filmed @ The CAVE Soundstage in Hackensack and edited by Adamit Productions

In this episode of Here I Am, host Shai Davidai sits down with Rabbi Chaim Steinmetz, senior rabbi of Congregation Kehilath Jeshurun (KJ) on Manhattan's Upper East Side and author of Despite Everything: A Chronicle of Jewish Resilience in the Aftermath of October 7th. Rabbi Steinmetz shares what it means to be a "loving Jew" and how he balances embracing all Jews while navigating deep communal disagreements. Drawing on nearly 20 years leading a congregation in Montreal, he offers a unique perspective on the rise of antisemitism in Canada, warning that the U.S. may be heading down the same path if university-driven ideologies continue to go unchallenged among elites. The conversation dives into the tension rabbis face between staying above politics and stepping into the arena when Jewish survival is at stake, how synagogues should handle platforming anti-Zionist voices, and the importance of grounding yourself in truth when faced with bad-faith propaganda. Rabbi Steinmetz also reflects on how to engage young Jews who live in modern "cocoons," disconnected from community, history, and the generations before them, urging them to "become a butterfly" and reconnect with something larger than themselves. Guests: Rabbi Chaim Steinmetz Consider DONATING to help us continue and expand our media efforts. If you cannot at this time, please share this video with someone who might benefit from it. We thank you for your support! https://gofund.me/30c00151c BUY MERCH! https://hereiam.threadless.com/ SUPPORT SHAI ON PATREON! https://www.patreon.com/shaidavidai/about?utm_source=campaign-search-results 🔔 Subscribe now and never miss an episode 📢 Follow us on social media: Instagram: hereiamwithshaidavidai Tik Tok: hereiamwithshaidavidai / hereiamwithshaidavidai 🎧 Listen to the full episode on your favorite podcast platform: RSS: https://rss.com/podcasts/hereiamwithshaidavidai/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/here-i-am-with-shai-davidai/id1757483524 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6pI03BMwAuQDbYIy4Zp6ah?si=2bd1c3f8a11c46cd #HereIAmPodcast #ShaiDavidai #RabbiChaimSteinmetz #KehilathJeshurun #JewishIdentity #JewishUnity #JewishResilience #JewishCommunity #October7th #StandWithIsrael #AntiSemitism #NeverAgain #JewishLeadership #AmericanJewry #ModernOrthodox #JewishActivism #JewishPride #JewishHope #CriticizeLikeAMother #GetOutOfTheCocoon #LearnToHugAgain #JewishSurvival #AdamitProductions #Podcast #NewEpisode #LinkInBio Credits: Producers: Shai Davidai, Abbie Sophia, Adamit Productions, Allison Fuller, Josh Tepper, Bonnie Berkovits Filmed @ The CAVE Soundstage in Hackensack and edited by Adamit Productions

Anila Ali, founder of the American Muslim Multi-Faith Women's Empowerment Council, joins Shai to share her journey as a Pakistani-American Muslim woman fighting extremism from within. From growing up in Pakistan's Sufi-influenced culture, to witnessing radical ideology infiltrate American mosques after 9/11, to speaking at the March for Israel in front of 300,000 people post-October 7th, Anila has faced death threats, lost family, and received an Iranian fatwa against her. She discusses why 80% of the world's Muslims are non-Arab, how the Muslim Brotherhood hijacked mainstream Islam, and why building authentic interfaith Abrahamic partnerships is the path forward. Guest: Pakistani Muslim Activist Anila Ali Consider DONATING to help us continue and expand our media efforts. If you cannot at this time, please share this video with someone who might benefit from it. We thank you for your support! https://gofund.me/30c00151c BUY MERCH! https://hereiam.threadless.com/ SUPPORT SHAI ON PATREON! https://www.patreon.com/shaidavidai/about?utm_source=campaign-search-results 🔔 Subscribe now and never miss an episode 📢 Follow us on social media: Instagram: hereiamwithshaidavidai Tik Tok: hereiamwithshaidavidai / hereiamwithshaidavidai 🎧 Listen to the full episode on your favorite podcast platform: RSS: https://rss.com/podcasts/hereiamwithshaidavidai/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/here-i-am-with-shai-davidai/id1757483524 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6pI03BMwAuQDbYIy4Zp6ah?si=2bd1c3f8a11c46cd #hereiamwithshaidavidai #shaidavidai #AnilaAli #AMMWEC #muslimwomen #islamicreform #ModerateMuslims #interfaithdialogue #AbrahamicUnity #abrahamaccords #AntiExtremism #muslimbrotherhood #CAIR #FightingExtremism #MuslimZionist #MarchForIsrael #october7th #911 #islamismus #womenempowerment #pakistaniamericans #SouthAsianMuslims #indusvalleycivilization #sufiislam #religiousfreedom #freespeech #muslimamericans #AntiSemitism #JewishMuslimAlliance #MultiFailth #WomenInIslam #RachelGoldberg #standwithisrael #moralclarity #CampusExtremism #counterterrorism #MuslimReformers #religiousextremism #wahhabism #IslamicSupremacism #freedomofreligion #americanmuslims #podcast #youtube Credits: Producers: Shai Davidai, Abbie Sophia, Adamit Productions, Allison Fuller, Josh Tepper, Bonnie Berkovits Filmed @ The CAVE Soundstage in Hackensack and edited by Adamit Productions

In this episode of Here I Am with Shai Davidai, Shai sits down with Rebecca Schgallis and David Litman from CAMERA (Committee for Accuracy in Middle East Reporting and Analysis). They discuss how misinformation and ideological framing can shape public understanding of Israel and the United States, from news coverage to classroom curricula. Rebecca shares what she saw as a former high school history teacher and why she believes K-12 education has become a major front in shaping narratives, especially after October 7. David explains CAMERA’s approach to media accountability and offers practical “red flags” viewers can look for, including selective context, loaded language, double standards, and misplaced agency. Guests: Rebecca Schgallis and David Litman Consider DONATING to help us continue and expand our media efforts. If you cannot at this time, please share this video with someone who might benefit from it. We thank you for your support! https://gofund.me/30c00151c BUY MERCH! https://hereiam.threadless.com/ SUPPORT SHAI ON PATREON! https://www.patreon.com/shaidavidai/about?utm_source=campaign-search-results 🔔 Subscribe now and never miss an episode 📢 Follow us on social media: Instagram: hereiamwithshaidavidai Tik Tok: hereiamwithshaidavidai / hereiamwithshaidavidai 🎧 Listen to the full episode on your favorite podcast platform: RSS: https://rss.com/podcasts/hereiamwithshaidavidai/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/here-i-am-with-shai-davidai/id1757483524 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6pI03BMwAuQDbYIy4Zp6ah?si=2bd1c3f8a11c46cd #HereIAmWithShaiDavidai #ShaiDavidai #Podcast #PodcastEpisode #Interview #LongFormConversation #JewishPodcast #JewishVoices #JewishCommunity #JewishIdentity #Zionism #Israel #IsraeliAmerican #Antisemitism #FightingAntisemitism #JewishEducation #K12Education #Education #EducationPolicy #ParentsInEducation #SchoolBoard #Curriculum #HistoryEducation #CriticalThinking #MediaLiteracy #NewsLiteracy #MediaBias #Journalism #JournalismStandards #Misinformation #Disinformation #Propaganda #TruthMatters #Accountability #CAMERA #CommitteeForAccuracyInMiddleEastReportingAndAnalysis #MiddleEast #MiddleEastNews #IsraelInTheMedia #CampusClimate #StudentActivism #CivicEducation #AmericanHistory #WesternCivilization #SocialMediaAlgorithms #PostTruth #AI #Deepfakes #CultureAndPolitics #FreeSpeech #PublicSchools #TeacherTraining #TextbookReview #OppressorOppressed #AntiZionism #JewishSafety #CommunitySupport #StandWithIsrael #SupportJewishStudents #ProtectJewishStudents #FightHate #BeInformed #StayCurious #ListenAndLearn #RebeccaChagall #DavidLittman Credits: Producers: Shai Davidai, Abbie Sophia, Adamit Productions, Allison Fuller, Josh Tepper, Bonnie Berkovits Filmed @ The CAVE Soundstage in Hackensack and edited by Adamit Productions Graphic by Shira Auman

In this episode of Here I Am with Shai Davidai, Shai sits down with clinical psychologist, trauma expert, and educator Miri Bar-Halpern for a candid conversation about trauma, identity, and what it means to keep showing up when the world feels unstable. Miri shares how her upbringing in Israel and her family history as a third-generation Holocaust survivor shaped her work, and she explains the difference between resilience and post-traumatic growth, focusing on how values-based action and meaning-making can help people move from surviving to thriving after trauma. They also discuss what many Jews have experienced since October 7, including traumatic invalidation in therapy spaces, academic settings, and public life, and why naming the harm is a key step toward healing. The conversation ends with Miri’s work in radicalization prevention through Parents for Peace, including warning signs for families and why antisemitism can appear across extremist ideologies, making this a powerful episode about mental health, advocacy, and reclaiming agency. Guest: Trauma Specialist Miri Bar-Halpern Consider DONATING to help us continue and expand our media efforts. If you cannot at this time, please share this video with someone who might benefit from it. We thank you for your support! https://gofund.me/30c00151c BUY MERCH! https://hereiam.threadless.com/ SUPPORT SHAI ON PATREON! https://www.patreon.com/shaidavidai/about?utm_source=campaign-search-results 🔔 Subscribe now and never miss an episode 📢 Follow us on social media: Instagram: hereiamwithshaidavidai Tik Tok: hereiamwithshaidavidai / hereiamwithshaidavidai 🎧 Listen to the full episode on your favorite podcast platform: RSS: https://rss.com/podcasts/hereiamwithshaidavidai/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/here-i-am-with-shai-davidai/id1757483524 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6pI03BMwAuQDbYIy4Zp6ah?si=2bd1c3f8a11c46cd #HereIAmWithShaiDavidai #ShaiDavidai #MiriBarHalpern #Podcast #Interview #Trauma #MentalHealth #Therapy #Psychology #Resilience #PostTraumaticGrowth #PTSD #TraumaInformed #JewishIdentity #JewishCommunity #Antisemitism #Israel #October7 #TraumaInvalidation #Radicalization #ParentsForPeace #ExtremismPrevention #OnlineSafety #Healing #Advocacy Credits: Producers: Shai Davidai, Abbie Sophia, Adamit Productions, Allison Fuller, Josh Tepper, Bonnie Berkovits Filmed @ The CAVE Soundstage in Hackensack and edited by Adamit Productions Graphic by Shira Auman

In this episode of Here I Am with Shai Davidai, Shai sits down with actor, writer, and filmmaker Ari Frenkel for a wide-ranging conversation about Jewish identity, comedy, creativity, and grief. Ari shares what it means to be an “October 8th Jew,” how his Israeli upbringing in America shaped his relationship to Judaism, and why humor and satire can reveal (and trigger) so much in people. They dive into Ari’s long-running digital series “Sorry, Ari,” including the viral episode “The Jews,” and talk about navigating mob mentality, online extremism, and making art that stays human in a volatile time. The conversation then turns to Ari’s feature film “See You on the Other Side,” a romantic comedy inspired by his father’s death and the year of grief that followed, including a search for his father’s former love. Ari reflects on loss, meaning-making, and why creating art can be a way to honor the people we’ve lost. Guest: Filmmaker Ari Frenkel Consider DONATING to help us continue and expand our media efforts. If you cannot at this time, please share this video with someone who might benefit from it. We thank you for your support! https://gofund.me/30c00151c BUY MERCH! https://hereiam.threadless.com/ SUPPORT SHAI ON PATREON! https://www.patreon.com/shaidavidai/about?utm_source=campaign-search-results 🔔 Subscribe now and never miss an episode 📢 Follow us on social media: Instagram: hereiamwithshaidavidai Tik Tok: hereiamwithshaidavidai / hereiamwithshaidavidai 🎧 Listen to the full episode on your favorite podcast platform: RSS: https://rss.com/podcasts/hereiamwithshaidavidai/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/here-i-am-with-shai-davidai/id1757483524 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6pI03BMwAuQDbYIy4Zp6ah?si=2bd1c3f8a11c46cd #HereIAmWithShaiDavidai #ShaiDavidai #AriFrenkel #SorryAri #TheJews #SeeYouOnTheOtherSide #JewishPodcast #JewishIdentity #JewishHumor #JewishCreators #JewishComedy #IsraeliAmerican #Israel #Judaism #October7 #October8Jew #Antisemitism #HateAndHumor #Satire #ComedyWithMeaning #Storytelling #IndependentFilm #Filmmaker #ActorWriterDirector #CreativeProcess #ArtOnYourOwnTerms #Grief #GriefJourney #LossAndHealing #RomCom #FeatureFilm #MeaningMaking #MentalHealth #Resilience #Hope #CultureConversation #PodcastInterview #LongFormContent #SupportArtists #IndieCreators #DigitalSeries #ViralVideo #MobMentality #SocialMediaCulture #ArtAndIdentity #PurposeDrivenArt Credits: Producers: Shai Davidai, Abbie Sophia, Adamit Productions, Allison Fuller, Josh Tepper, Bonnie Berkovits Filmed @ The CAVE Soundstage in Hackensack and edited by Adamit Productions Graphic by Shira Auman

In this episode of Here I Am with Shai Davidai, Shai sits down with Ilana Ybgi, a doula, life coach, and founder of the Crown Heights Birth Justice Project. Ilana describes herself as a “social justice Jew” and explains what social justice means to her: seeing what is broken, taking responsibility, and becoming part of the solution, even through small but real actions. Their conversation explores Ilana’s work supporting women during birth, and why she views birth as a deeply vulnerable, sacred space where dignity and advocacy matter. Ilana and Shai discuss the wider maternal health crisis in the U.S., including how bias in medical settings can impact care, especially for Black women and Orthodox-presenting women. Ilana speaks about the fear and tension that can come with identity, particularly after October 7, and the personal realities of navigating antisemitism while raising a family. Ilana also shares the mission behind the Crown Heights Birth Justice Project, which brings together women from different communities, including Jewish and Black women, to build trust and connection through honest conversations about birth, support, and shared vulnerability. The episode closes with Shai’s rapid-fire “Here I Am” questions, touching on safety, hope, and why the birth of a baby can be a powerful reminder of resilience and optimism. Guest: Ilana Ybgi Consider DONATING to help us continue and expand our media efforts. If you cannot at this time, please share this video with someone who might benefit from it. We thank you for your support! https://gofund.me/30c00151c BUY MERCH! https://hereiam.threadless.com/ SUPPORT SHAI ON PATREON! https://www.patreon.com/shaidavidai/about?utm_source=campaign-search-results 🔔 Subscribe now and never miss an episode 📢 Follow us on social media: Instagram: hereiamwithshaidavidai Tik Tok: hereiamwithshaidavidai / hereiamwithshaidavidai 🎧 Listen to the full episode on your favorite podcast platform: RSS: https://rss.com/podcasts/hereiamwithshaidavidai/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/here-i-am-with-shai-davidai/id1757483524 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6pI03BMwAuQDbYIy4Zp6ah?si=2bd1c3f8a11c46cd Youtube: https://youtu.be/inPw6AOohDw #HereIAm #HereIAmWithShaiDavidai #ShaiDavidai #IlanaYbgi #Podcast #PodcastEpisode #Interview #Doula #BirthWorker #BirthSupport #MaternalHealth #BirthJustice #ReproductiveJustice #MaternalMortality #BlackMaternalHealth #BlackMothers #WomensHealth #HealthcareBias #MedicalBias #PatientAdvocacy #InformedConsent #BirthTrauma #HomeBirth #Midwifery #PostpartumSupport #CommunityCare #Healing #BridgeBuilding #CoalitionBuilding #CommunityDialogue #CrownHeights #Brooklyn #OrthodoxJewish #Lubavitch #JewishIdentity #BlackJewish Credits: Producers: Shai Davidai, Abbie Sophia, Adamit Productions, Allison Fuller, Josh Tepper, Bonnie Berkovits Filmed @ The CAVE Soundstage in Hackensack and edited by Adamit Productions Graphic by Shira Auman

In this episode of Here I Am with Shai Davidai, Shai sits down with Emmy-nominated journalist and Karsh Journalism Fellowship founder Jacki Karsh for a wide-ranging conversation about media, misinformation, and Jewish identity in a post–October 7 world. Karsh shares how moving from New York to Los Angeles reshaped her Jewish life, why she believes social media is built to drive engagement rather than truth, and what it means to be “facts-first” when public discourse is increasingly driven by binaries. They discuss the difference between misinformation and disinformation, the pressures that lead major outlets to report before verifying, and how narratives about Jews and Israel often get flattened into simplistic “good vs. bad” storytelling. Karsh explains why she launched the Karsh Journalism Fellowship: to equip journalists (Jewish and non-Jewish) with deeper context and better tools to report on Jewish life, antisemitism, and Israel with accuracy, nuance, and fairness. Guest: Jacki Karsh Consider DONATING to help us continue and expand our media efforts. If you cannot at this time, please share this video with someone who might benefit from it. We thank you for your support! https://gofund.me/30c00151c BUY MERCH! https://hereiam.threadless.com/ SUPPORT SHAI ON PATREON! https://www.patreon.com/shaidavidai/about?utm_source=campaign-search-results 🔔 Subscribe now and never miss an episode 📢 Follow us on social media: Instagram: hereiamwithshaidavidai Tik Tok: hereiamwithshaidavidai / hereiamwithshaidavidai 🎧 Listen to the full episode on your favorite podcast platform: RSS: https://rss.com/podcasts/hereiamwithshaidavidai/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/here-i-am-with-shai-davidai/id1757483524 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6pI03BMwAuQDbYIy4Zp6ah?si=2bd1c3f8a11c46cd Credits: Producers: Shai Davidai, Abbie Sophia, Adamit Productions, Allison Fuller, Josh Tepper, Bonnie Kirsch Filmed @ The CAVE Soundstage in Hackensack and edited by Adamit Productions Graphic by Shira Auman For sponsorship opportunities, please email [email protected]

In this episode of Here I Am with Shai Davidai, Shai speaks with Jonathan Greenblatt, CEO of the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), about antisemitism, Zionism, and the challenges facing the Jewish community after October 7. Greenblatt shares his personal Jewish story, including his family’s Holocaust and Iranian refugee background, and explains how his path through politics, tech, and entrepreneurship led him to lead one of America’s most prominent anti-hate organizations. Greenblatt breaks down what the ADL does to combat antisemitism and hate, including tracking extremist threats, training law enforcement, legal advocacy, and education initiatives. He also discusses why he argues “anti-Zionism is antisemitism,” how anti-Jewish hatred has evolved over time, and what Jewish institutions and leaders must change in response to today’s cultural and political climate. Guest: Jonathan Greenblatt Consider DONATING to help us continue and expand our media efforts. If you cannot at this time, please share this video with someone who might benefit from it. We thank you for your support! https://gofund.me/30c00151c COMING SOON BUY MERCH! SUPPORT SHAI ON PATREON! https://www.patreon.com/shaidavidai/about?utm_source=campaign-search-results 🔔 Subscribe now and never miss an episode 📢 Follow us on social media: Instagram: hereiamwithshaidavidai Tik Tok: hereiamwithshaidavidai / hereiamwithshaidavidai 🎧 Listen to the full episode on your favorite podcast platform: RSS: https://rss.com/podcasts/hereiamwithshaidavidai/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/here-i-am-with-shai-davidai/id1757483524 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6pI03BMwAuQDbYIy4Zp6ah?si=2bd1c3f8a11c46cd #HereIAm #HereIAmWithShaiDavidai #ShaiDavidai #JonathanGreenblatt #ADL #AntiDefamationLeague #JewishPodcast #PodcastEpisode #PodcastClips #JewishIdentity #WhatKindOfJewAreYou #ProudJew #Zionism #Zionist #JewishPride #JewishCommunity #JewishLeadership #JewishVoices #JewishEducation #HolocaustSurvivor #HolocaustEducation #NeverAgain #Antisemitism #StopAntisemitism #FightAntisemitism #AntisemitismAwareness #CombatHate #AntiHate #HateSpeech #Extremism #CounterExtremism #CivilRights #HumanRights #ProtectJewishLives #JewishSafety #CampusAntisemitism #Israel #ProIsrael #IsraelEducation #MiddleEast #IsraelPalestine #TwoStateSolution #JewishHistory #JewishResilience #Diaspora #AmericanJewry #ADLCEO #NonprofitLeadership #Leadership #MoralClarity #CulturalChange #SocialMedia #Section230 #AIandSociety #TechEthics #Disinformation #Propaganda #Democracy #CivicEngagement #HereIAmPodcast Credits: Producers: Shai Davidai, Abbie Sophia, Adamit Productions, Allison Fuller, Josh Tepper Filmed @ The CAVE Soundstage in Hackensack and edited by Adamit Productions Graphic by Shira Auman For sponsorship opportunities, please email [email protected]

In this engaging episode, Shai Davidai sits down with Ryan Turkienicz, co-founder of The Daily Brine, a satirical news platform often described as “the Jewish Onion,” focused on Israel and the Jewish diaspora. Ryan shares how his background in real estate investment and development, combined with years of experience in music, improv, and comedy, set the stage for launching a humor-driven advocacy project in the wake of October 7, 2023, an “activating moment” that pushed him to step up as a Jewish voice. He explains how he and his brother Eric (a practicing lawyer trained at Second City with decades of satire-writing experience) chose satire as a “force multiplier,” not to trivialize tragedy, but to expose hypocrisy and empower a community that had struggled to laugh again. Throughout the conversation, Ryan breaks down the “rules” behind The Daily Brine’s content, including red lines like not punching down, avoiding hate, and satirizing actions and power rather than identity or suffering, while also sharing how the project grew quickly through community support and relatable, accessible humor. Ryan also discusses the tension of being “moderate” in a polarized era, his involvement in Israel President Herzog’s Voices of the People Council (focused on Israel-diaspora relations), and the next chapter for The Daily Brine, including building a more structured writers room and expanding into YouTube. Tune in for a thoughtful look at how comedy, when done with intention, can build resilience, strengthen community, and create a shared language in difficult times. Guest: Satirist Writer Ryan Turkienicz Consider DONATING to help us continue and expand our media efforts. If you cannot at this time, please share this video with someone who might benefit from it. We thank you for your support! https://gofund.me/30c00151c COMING SOON BUY MERCH! SUPPORT SHAI ON PATREON! https://www.patreon.com/shaidavidai/about?utm_source=campaign-search-results 🔔 Subscribe now and never miss an episode 📢 Follow us on social media: Instagram: hereiamwithshaidavidai Tik Tok: hereiamwithshaidavidai / hereiamwithshaidavidai 🎧 Listen to the full episode on your favorite podcast platform: RSS: https://rss.com/podcasts/hereiamwithshaidavidai/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/here-i-am-with-shai-davidai/id1757483524 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6pI03BMwAuQDbYIy4Zp6ah?si=2bd1c3f8a11c46cd #HereIAm #ShaiDavidai #Podcast #PodcastEpisode #PodcastInterview #RyanTurkienicz #TheDailyBrine #JewishOnion #JewishSatire #NewsSatire #Satire #Comedy #JewishComedy #Humor #DarkHumor #ImprovComedy #SecondCity #WritersRoom #ContentCreation #SocialMediaStrategy #InstagramGrowth #YouTubeCreators #JewishIdentity #JewishCommunity #JewishDiaspora #Israel #IsraelAndDiaspora #Zionism #Advocacy Credits: Producers: Shai Davidai, Abbie Sophia, Adamit Productions, Naomi Landis, Emma Law-Oppman, Ilana Kalach, Allison Fuller Filmed @ The CAVE Soundstage in Hackensack and edited by Adamit Productions Graphic by Shira Auman For sponsorship opportunities, please email [email protected]

In this inspiring episode, Shai Davidai sits down with Justin Yehuda, the 24-year-old founder and CEO of Iron Dome Coffee—a coffee subscription company that donates 18% of its profits to charities supporting Israel. Justin shares his journey from growing up in a Zionist community in New Jersey to launching a business that unites and empowers pro-Israel supporters through coffee. He opens up about the challenges of entrepreneurship, the impact of October 7th on his life, and his personal connection to Israel, including the loss of his cousin in the war. Justin discusses the importance of standing proudly with Israel, the power of community, and the lessons he’s learned as a young activist-entrepreneur. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation about identity, resilience, and making a difference—one cup of coffee at a time. Guest: Entrepreneur Justin Yehuda Consider DONATING to help us continue and expand our media efforts. If you cannot at this time, please share this video with someone who might benefit from it. We thank you for your support! https://gofund.me/30c00151c COMING SOON BUY MERCH! SUPPORT SHAI ON PATREON! https://www.patreon.com/shaidavidai/about?utm_source=campaign-search-results 🔔 Subscribe now and never miss an episode 📢 Follow us on social media: Instagram: hereiamwithshaidavidai Tik Tok: hereiamwithshaidavidai / hereiamwithshaidavidai 🎧 Listen to the full episode on your favorite podcast platform: RSS: https://rss.com/podcasts/hereiamwithshaidavidai/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/here-i-am-with-shai-davidai/id1757483524 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6pI03BMwAuQDbYIy4Zp6ah?si=2bd1c3f8a11c46cd #hereiam #shaidavidai #JustinYehuda #IronDomeCoffee #entrepreneurship #SupportIsrael #jewishcommunity #proisrael #youngentrepreneur #CoffeeWithACause #IsraelCharity #jewishidentity #startupstory #inspiringstories #jewishpride #zionisme #jewishdiaspora #charity #businessforgood #resilience #leadership #jewishpodcast #israelsupport #jewishactivism #makingadifference #socialimpact #JewishYouth #jewishleadership #JewishBusiness #coffeelovers Credits: Producers: Shai Davidai, Abbie Sophia, Adamit Productions, Naomi Landis, Emma Law-Oppman, Ilana Kalach, Allison Fuller Filmed @ The CAVE Soundstage in Hackensack and edited by Adamit Productions Graphic by Shira Auman For sponsorship opportunities, please email [email protected]

Join host Shai Davidai as he sits down with Leslie Schapira for an honest and lively conversation about Jewish identity, activism, and community. Leslie shares her journey from attending a progressive school to becoming a passionate advocate for Jewish causes, and discusses the importance of recognizing and combating antisemitism today. The episode explores her work organizing influential dinners that bring together Jewish leaders and creatives, the challenges of Jewish representation in Hollywood, and the power of supporting one another. Tune in for memorable stories, candid moments, and inspiring insights on building unity and resilience in the Jewish community. Guest: Leslie Schapira Consider DONATING to help us continue and expand our media efforts. If you cannot at this time, please share this video with someone who might benefit from it. We thank you for your support! https://gofund.me/30c00151c COMING SOON BUY MERCH! SUPPORT SHAI ON PATREON! https://www.patreon.com/shaidavidai/about?utm_source=campaign-search-results 🔔 Subscribe now and never miss an episode 📢 Follow us on social media: Instagram: hereiamwithshaidavidai Tik Tok: hereiamwithshaidavidai / hereiamwithshaidavidai 🎧 Listen to the full episode on your favorite podcast platform: RSS: https://rss.com/podcasts/hereiamwithshaidavidai/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/here-i-am-with-shai-davidai/id1757483524 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6pI03BMwAuQDbYIy4Zp6ah?si=2bd1c3f8a11c46cd #hereiampodcast #shaidavidai #RabbiMosheMayerfeld #jewishcommunity #jewishidentity #KiNYC #jewishpodcast #jewishdiaspora #jewishlife #jewishleadership #jewisheducation #jewishvalues #jewishtraditions #jewishculture #jewishhistory #jewishpride #jewishinspiration #jewishjourney #jewishroots #jewishfamily #JewishYouth #jewishfuture #communitybuilding #Inclusion #diversityandinclusion #integration #assimilation #NYCJewish #jewishstories #jewishwisdom #spirituality #rabbi #podcastinterview #JewishOutreach #jewishunity #jewishheritage #jewishlearning #jewishfaith #JewishPhilanthropy #jewishhope Credits: Producers: Shai Davidai, Abbie Sophia, Adamit Productions, Naomi Landis, Emma Law-Oppman, Ilana Kalach, Allison Fuller Filmed @ The CAVE Soundstage in Hackensack and edited by Adamit Productions Graphic by Shira Auman For sponsorship opportunities, please email [email protected]

In this inspiring episode, host Shai Davidai sits down with Rabbi Moshe Mayerfeld, rabbi, educator, and co-founder of Kii NYC. Rabbi Mayerfeld shares his remarkable journey from a small town in New Jersey to Israel, the UK, and finally Manhattan, discussing his family’s refugee roots, his early work with troubled youth, and his passion for building inclusive Jewish communities. The conversation explores themes of Jewish identity, the importance of community, and the difference between assimilation and integration. Rabbi Mayerfeld reflects on his experiences leading outreach in England and New York, the founding of Kii NYC, and the power of meeting people where they are. The episode is filled with heartfelt stories, wisdom about leadership and belonging, and a message of hope for the future of the Jewish people. Guest: Rabbi Moshe Mayerfeld Consider DONATING to help us continue and expand our media efforts. If you cannot at this time, please share this video with someone who might benefit from it. We thank you for your support! https://gofund.me/30c00151c COMING SOON BUY MERCH! SUPPORT SHAI ON PATREON! https://www.patreon.com/shaidavidai/about?utm_source=campaign-search-results 🔔 Subscribe now and never miss an episode 📢 Follow us on social media: Instagram: hereiamwithshaidavidai Tik Tok: hereiamwithshaidavidai / hereiamwithshaidavidai 🎧 Listen to the full episode on your favorite podcast platform: Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjR3q64nWDeBxkw7OISSpsg RSS: https://rss.com/podcasts/hereiamwithshaidavidai/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/here-i-am-with-shai-davidai/id1757483524 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6pI03BMwAuQDbYIy4Zp6ah?si=2bd1c3f8a11c46cd #hereiampodcast #shaidavidai #RabbiMosheMayerfeld #jewishcommunity #jewishidentity #KiNYC #jewishpodcast #jewishdiaspora #jewishlife #jewishleadership #jewisheducation #jewishvalues #jewishtraditions #jewishculture #jewishhistory #jewishpride #jewishinspiration #jewishjourney #jewishroots #jewishfamily #JewishYouth #jewishfuture #communitybuilding #Inclusion #diversityandinclusion #integration #assimilation #NYCJewish #jewishstories #jewishwisdom #spirituality #rabbi #podcastinterview #JewishOutreach #jewishunity #jewishheritage #jewishlearning #jewishfaith #JewishPhilanthropy #jewishhope Credits: Producers: Shai Davidai, Abbie Sophia, Adamit Productions, Naomi Landis, Emma Law-Oppman, Ilana Kalach, Allison Fuller Filmed @ The CAVE Soundstage in Hackensack and edited by Adamit Productions Graphic by Shira Auman For sponsorship opportunities, please email [email protected]