Advertise on podcast: In Such A Time: Conversations on Jewish Life, Leadership & Meaning

Discover how ancient family tensions can offer us wisdom for our modern lives: what can we learn from the sibling rivalry between Jacob and Esau, and why do we so often fall back into our childhood roles around family? The conversation focused on the Torah portions of Chayei Sarah and Toldot, exploring legacies, generational growth, and the challenge of dysfunctional family dynamics. A key theme that emerged was how the imperfect, very human families of the Torah mirror our own, providing comfort and insights as we strive for growth and healing. The discussion explored topics like nature vs. nurture, favoritism, personal transformation, and whether generational change is possible. Several points were raised, including reflections on the impact of family trauma, rabbinic interpretations of biblical characters, and how the journey of Jacob and Esau still resonates in contemporary experiences—right down to the hope for peace at home and within society. Timestamped Overview[00:00] Introduction and personal dedication[01:33] Abraham, Sarah, and the legacy of Chayei Sarah[02:53] Nature vs. nurture and the prophecy of twins[04:48] Dysfunctional family dynamics and sibling rivalry[06:43] Snowplow parenting and modern parallels[07:24] Adult siblings, funerals, and healing old dynamics[09:33] Returning to childhood roles and Thanksgiving reflections[11:40] Relatable, imperfect characters in the Torah[12:22] Sympathy for Esau or Jacob?[15:23] Jacob’s struggles as a metaphor for Jewish experience[18:09] Jacob and Esau as archetypes for Jewish identity[20:11] Metaphors of Judaism vs. Rome[22:25] The significance of twins and parental favoritism[24:39] Parental projections and generational therapy[26:12] Jacob’s transformation and recurring dysfunction[28:34] Questions about real transformation across generations[30:31] Lessons for self-reflection and family adjustment[32:15] Menashe and Ephraim as models for breaking the cycle[32:54] Prayers for peace at home and in Israel[33:23] Closing blessings and outro

Israeli democracy thrives in its messiness—what can the latest election results teach us about coalition-building, civic responsibility, and the challenges of national unity? This episode dives into the recent Israeli elections with a sharp focus on how the Knesset operates, why neither major party can easily form a government, and what the dramatic rise in Arab voter turnout means for the country's future. The conversation explores major themes like the persistent debate over military and national service, the complexities of coalition politics, anxieties within Israeli society, and the enduring influence of Netanyahu. Listeners gain invaluable perspective on how Israeli identity, security, and democracy are being negotiated in real time. Timestampes Overview [00:00:00] Introduction and framing the Israeli election results[00:00:38] How the Israeli Knesset and coalition system work[00:01:55] The pivotal role of Arab parties and post-election confusion[00:02:32] Analysis of voting trends and government coalition possibilities[00:04:02] Surge in Arab political participation and its implications[00:05:52] Arab-Israeli political platforms and coalition controversies[00:09:26] Reflections on Israeli democracy and civic engagement[00:10:13] National service, military conscription, and societal fairness[00:12:18] Political strategy, Netanyahu’s prospects, and next election speculation[00:14:41] Funding, service, and proposals for national unity reforms[00:16:08] How security concerns influence political dynamics[00:17:21] Netanyahu’s long-standing appeal and Israel’s global standing[00:19:25] Concerns for Israel’s future and generational anxieties[00:20:24] Theoretical reforms and prospects for a center-right coalition[00:21:02] Societal uncertainty and post-October 7th reckoning[00:22:01] The reality of Israeli versus Jewish identity[00:23:11] The need for competent governance and national cohesion[00:24:39] Hopes for political moderation and pragmatic coalitions[00:25:42] Existential themes and lessons from Israel’s history[00:26:36] Reflections on proportional representation and political diversity[00:27:53] External vs. internal issues in Israeli elections[00:29:18] Voting anecdotes and appreciation for Israeli civic engagement[00:30:13] Closing thoughts and community connection

Discover why Israel's upcoming elections are about more than just politics—they're a window into the core values and anxieties shaping Israeli society today. What happens when a country must choose between tradition, security, and societal change, all while under international scrutiny? In this episode, Rabbis Jonathan Jaffe and Leora Londy dive deep into the key issues facing Israeli voters: the future of the Haredi (ultra-Orthodox) draft exemption, integration of different demographic groups, the ongoing impact of October 7th, and whether the leadership of Benjamin Netanyahu still resonates with the public. The conversation unpacks the clash between religious and secular values, public demand for accountability after national trauma, and the striking disconnect between American Jewish concerns and Israeli political realities.You’ll hear nuanced perspectives on the psychological forces influencing voters, the rising stakes of religion in politics, and heartfelt wishes for greater cohesion and representative leadership during an unprecedented moment in Israel’s history. Timestamped Overview [00:00] Welcome and episode introduction [00:20] Setting the table: Security, differing priorities, and the election’s context[02:24] Haredi draft issue and its emotional/political implications [03:59] Explaining the Haredi exemption and societal tensions [06:54] Haredi community and Israeli social fractures [09:17] Polls, psychological drivers, and conscription alternatives [11:09] Psychological frustration and participation in crises[13:01] Broader issues of social and legal participation [14:00] Arab-Israeli integration and challenges [16:00] Netanyahu’s legacy and the election as a referendum [17:28] Calls for accountability and the absence of a national commission [20:00] Security, polarization, and societal trust [22:47] Perceived partiality and possible reforms around Netanyahu [24:11] The rise and role of Lieberman and secular right politics [27:31] American vs. Israeli perspective on war and priorities [29:40] Security, Gaza policy, and what’s missing in opposition plans [32:52] American Jewish-Israeli relationship and the lack of focus on world Jewry [36:51] Advice for Israeli leaders from an American vantage [38:31] Jewish identity, religious pluralism, and what it means for democracy [41:02] Judicial reform, separation of religion and state, and ongoing tensions [44:33] Closing reflections and prayers for Israel’s future [48:30] Episode close and credits

Discover how communities can honor trauma while still holding onto hope—can memorializing painful events actually strengthen identity and resilience?The conversation focused on the evolving legacy of October 7th within Jewish memory and ritual. Key themes included how individuals and communities process collective trauma, the tension between remembering and moving forward, and the balance between honoring victims and avoiding a culture of perpetual victimhood. The discussion explored the way Jewish tradition historically consolidates remembrances of tragedy, the symbolic choices in memorializing events like the Holocaust versus October 7th, and how new generations might approach commemoration. Several points were raised, including the impact of public memorials, the interplay between personal healing and collective memory, and the role of pride and resilience in shaping future observances.[00:00] Introduction and framing the conversation: October 7th in Jewish memory[00:55] Personal reflections and the lingering trauma of October 7th[02:14] The ongoing tragedy in Gaza and shifts in observance[03:56] Comparisons with Holocaust and historical Jewish trauma[05:03] The tradition of communal mourning and lessons from Tisha B’Av[07:32] Structuring Jewish memory: consolidation vs. proliferation of days[08:48] Why "October 7th" rather than "Simchat Torah"?[09:29] The emotional necessity of remembrance for survivors[11:10] How October 7th shifts Jewish identity and commemoration[12:59] Rethinking the meaning of holding onto the past[13:22] The healing power of witnessing and telling stories[15:05] Memorials and the physical space of remembrance[16:04] Danger of centering Jewish identity around victimhood[17:02] October 7th memory: identity, pride, and resilience[18:48] Differences between Holocaust and October 7th victims and remembrance[19:48] Museums, memorials, and public memory[21:18] The line between honoring and disaster tourism[22:30] Israeli and diaspora responses: rebuilding and living with memory[24:47] Contrasts in Holocaust and October 7th memorial styles[26:21] Hope, resilience, and the symbolism of the Kalanit flower[27:01] Looking ahead: legacy, memory, and shifting politics[27:47] Outro and episode close

Standing up for core values isn't just brave—it's essential for a vibrant democracy. But what happens when your most fundamental needs feel overlooked by the very party you've always supported? In this compelling episode, Rabbi Josh Winston shares his journey co-founding nonnegotiable.org in response to shifting rhetoric in Michigan's critical Senate race. He discusses the challenges of advocating for Jewish safety, identity, and inclusion in a polarized political climate, the process of creating a unified set of "nonnegotiables" for candidates, and the impact this movement has had—both within the Jewish community and beyond. Listeners will gain insight into the power of principled action, the complexities of coalition-building, and the urgent need to defend inclusive democratic spaces. Timestamped Overview 00:00 Welcome and guest introduction 00:59 Josh Winston's background and commitment to social justice 02:04 Deepening focus on Israel, Reform Judaism, and Jewish democracy 03:18 The Michigan Senate race and its broader impact 04:17 What is Nonnegotiable? Purpose, origins, and organizing 05:00 Founding team and cross-spectrum collaboration 07:45 Evolving politics, Democratic discomfort, and Jewish voter concerns 08:21 The "Nonnegotiables" outlined 10:19 The need to stay engaged in the political process 11:51 Response from candidates and the community 13:24 Why rhetoric matters: antisemitism, safety, and political choices 15:53 Feedback, backlash, and support within the community 24:46 Media attention and measuring success 27:30 Nonnegotiables as an act of democracy 29:09 Jewish safety as a bellwether for democracy 30:56 Jewish-Muslim relations post-October 7 33:23 Call to action: building power in the Jewish community 35:05 Parallels between left and right populist rhetoric 37:21 Lessons for the broader Jewish and civic community 38:42 Where to learn more and get involved: nonnegotiable.org and zioness.org If you'd like to make a contribution to Nonnegotiable, head on over to https://www.nonnegotiable.org/donate.

Discover the complex choices parents face when balancing the value of Jewish identity and community with the desire for diversity and public engagement. In this revealing conversation, Rabbi Jonathan Jaffe and Rabbi Leora Londy dive into their own varied educational journeys—from private Jewish day schools to public classrooms in diverse American cities and even Israel. Together, they wrestle with the personal and communal motivations underlying school selection, the impact of privilege, and the contemporary challenges around safety and inclusion amid rising antisemitism. By sharing their candid reflections and family experiences, they invite listeners to confront the tough decisions that shape not only individual identities but also the very fabric of Jewish communal life. Timestamped Overview 00:00 Welcome and reflections on averted disaster in Israel 01:14 Introducing the central question: Jewish day schools vs. public schools 02:20 Rabbi Leora Londy's upbringing: Jewish and public school experiences 03:54 Rabbi Jonathan Jaffe's private school experiences in Hawaii 06:44 Relating school choices to privilege and regional realities 08:17 Struggles and decisions as parents: investing in public vs. private Jewish education 09:08 Rabbi Leora Londy on Israeli and American systems, moving to Westchester 10:24 First experiences with diversity and values in public school 12:02 The challenge of instilling Jewish identity in different educational settings 12:44 The dual history of Jewish day schools: pride and white flight 15:18 What Jewish day schools provide, and what they don't 18:20 How school choice drives where families live 21:07 The tension between diversity and providing the "best" for children 21:26 The steep costs of Jewish education and its impact 23:20 Concerns around safety in American public schools 24:37 Broader communal responsibilities and reflections on California's decline in public education 25:50 Integrating Jewish life into diverse environments 26:54 Holding space for both Jewish continuity and interfaith friendships 28:00 Invitation for listener reflections and conversation closer

Discover how the history of Jewish resilience—summed up in the power of saying “no”—can help us better understand both modern anti-Semitism and the ongoing challenges facing the Jewish community today. Why does Jewish success often provoke new forms of hatred, and is there a deeper pattern to the ways in which Jews are scapegoated over time? In this Yom Kippur sermon episode, Rabbi Jonathan Jaffe draws from Dara Horn’s provocative work to explain why Jews are continually “a stiff-necked people,” resisting tyranny and dogma throughout the ages. Explore the origins of the “big lie,” its ever-shifting representations, and why the modern Jewish state faces echoing accusations that have haunted the Jewish people for millennia. Rabbi Jonathan Jaffe also introduces a powerful new curriculum designed to empower Jews of all ages to engage proudly and knowledgeably with their identity. Timestamped Overview00:00 Introduction and framing: Jewish resilience and challenges00:53 The “stiff-necked people” and anti-tyrannical roots of Judaism03:34 Historical refusals: From Babylon to the modern era06:05 The cost and pride of saying “no”07:07 The “big lie” and society’s shifting accusations09:32 Modern analogues: Israel, identity, and scapegoating10:40 Criticizing Israel vs. demonizing Jews12:21 Anti-Zionism, anti-Semitism, and practical consequences14:02 Yom Kippur’s scapegoat ritual and symbolism16:00 Enduring narratives—from Augustine to today17:16 Announcing the Tell Institute curriculum18:18 Empowerment, education, and the enduring necessity of “no”19:40 Outro and community connection

Questioning our core beliefs can lead not to distance, but to a deeper, more meaningful connection with our identity. What happens when a rabbi—at the intersection of personal faith and worldwide struggle—dares to ask, "Why am I Jewish, and what does that mean today?" In this powerful Kol Nidre sermon, Rabbi Leora Londy shares a deeply personal journey through doubt, dialogue, and discovery. Navigating crises of faith amid war, antisemitism, and shifting roles, she invites listeners to explore the tension between tradition and modernity, the challenge of owning Jewish identity with courage, and the importance of questioning what we've inherited. Reflecting on Jewish history—from Spinoza to modern Reform—Rabbi Leora Londy challenges us all to practice a Judaism that is open, vibrant, and unapologetically ours. Timestamped Overview 00:00 Welcome and introduction00:21 Rabbi Leora Londy shares her crisis of faith01:44 Historical perspective: Spinoza and questioning Judaism03:07 Living two lives: immersion and outreach04:41 Engaging in challenging conversations outside the Jewish community06:33 Realizations about Jewish insecurity07:30 Shame and the struggle to claim Jewishness08:06 The age-old tension between hiding and revealing identity09:46 Jewish adaptation and Reform history10:38 Modern Jewish practice and self-examination11:34 Collective confessions and personal ‘Al Chetz’12:14 Affirming core Jewish beliefs13:56 The miracle and critique of Israel14:47 The call for a stronger, flourishing Judaism15:23 Closing remarks and encouragement

This week’s episode of In Such A Time is taken from Rabbi Jonathan Jaffe’s Rosh Hashanah sermon. Discover how ancient traditions can provide a powerful antidote to modern loneliness and meaninglessness. What can the Jewish story teach us about overcoming the personal dislocation so many face today? Listeners are invited on a deeply personal and thought-provoking journey—beginning with a young adult’s search for community in San Francisco and moving through the social science, literature, and enduring wisdom that point us towards connection, purpose, and resilience. Explore the “4 Ps” of meaningful living—People, Past, Place, and Prayer—and learn how Jewish practices like Shabbat, storytelling, and communal gathering have sustained generations, even through adversity. Plus, find out why Israelis rank among the world’s happiest people, and how anyone can begin to “cash the check” of meaning. Whether you’re searching for connection or looking to enrich your Jewish journey, this episode offers insight, practical invitations, and hope for the year ahead. Timestamped Overview [00:00] Introduction and personal journey[02:43] Modern loneliness and dislocation examined[04:27] The “4 Ps”: People, Past, Place, Prayer introduced[07:41] Deep dive: People—belonging to a larger story[09:26] Past—Jewish narrative and communal memory[11:59] Place—connection to Israel and homeland[13:15] Prayer—the power of communal worship[15:39] Happiness in Israel and sources of resilience[18:56] How to find purpose through Jewish life[19:51] Shabbat as a weekly antidote[20:47] Invitations to connect: Torah study, Israel trips, community events[23:13] Conclusion and call to action

Finding balance between caring for others and safeguarding our own well-being is not just a seasonal challenge—it's a lifelong dance. But can empathy ever go too far? In this thoughtful Rosh Hashanah episode, Rabbi Jonathan Jaffe and Rabbi Leora Londy examine the power and perils of empathy—personally, communally, and even politically. From dissecting “The Giving Tree” to exploring boundaries in relationships, atonement, and social justice movements, the rabbis explore whether “radical empathy” can turn self-erasure into a vice. Hear powerful insights on Jewish text, real-life dilemmas, and why sometimes caring deeply means caring for ourselves, too. Timestamped Overview 00:00 The role of empathy during the High Holidays00:20 Rosh Hashanah and questions on the limits of empathy01:10 The Giving Tree as a cautionary tale02:08 Radical giving versus the necessity of boundaries03:43 Jewish historical perspective on giving and abuse04:46 Boundaries, self-preservation, and critique of radical empathy07:18 Is radical empathy a superpower or Achilles’ heel?08:00 Maimonides on forgiveness and setting limits11:00 Biblical examples: Jacob, Joseph, and trust12:53 On showing up for others without losing oneself15:23 Radical empathy as a modern social phenomenon17:25 When empathy becomes narcissism19:56 Empathy in everyday dilemmas: giving vs boundaries23:32 Directing empathy toward causes vs people close to us24:29 Empathy for others vs self; balancing acts25:10 Family boundaries and ethical permission26:15 The challenge—and necessity—of forgiveness28:15 Ritual, release, and catharsis during the High Holidays29:12 Empathy, forgiveness, and self-care for the new year29:46 Closing and next steps for the community

Discover why the High Holidays aren’t just about reflection—they’re also an opportunity for renewal, forgiveness, and connection to community and self. What does it mean to face a season of atonement and new beginnings? Rabbi Jonathan Jaffe and Rabbi Leora Londy unpack the tension, joy, and gravity of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, exploring personal practices, communal rituals, parenting paradoxes, and the deep lessons found in tradition. This episode dives into the month of Elul, the dance between universalism and particularism, and the challenge of genuine self-forgiveness—all while inviting listeners to ready their hearts and minds for the year ahead. Timestamped Overview: 00:00 Welcome and introduction00:20 Preparing for the High Holidays: personal reflections01:43 Setting intentions during Elul02:39 Gratitude, community, and anticipation04:15 The structure of the Jewish calendar & holiday sequence06:09 Universal vs. particular themes of Rosh Hashanah08:29 Community, renewal, and self-improvement10:54 Personal vs. communal dimensions of atonement14:49 The pursuit of self-reflection and change17:11 Behind the bimah: clergy experiences18:12 The struggle and impact of apologies21:10 Parenting, authenticity, and forced apology23:17 Forgiving oneself and finding balance25:19 Personal rituals and spiritual motifs26:47 Living the tension: Avinu Malkeinu and holding opposites27:53 Closing remarks and credits

How can we balance genuine care with respect for privacy, especially in the public sphere? In this thoughtful episode, Rabbi Jonathan Jaffe and Rabbi Leora Londy delve into the boundaries of concern, critique, and support, using the recent controversy surrounding Ariana Grande’s public health and body image as a lens. Drawing from Jewish wisdom and sharing personal and communal experiences, they reflect on how best to intervene—or step back—when someone may be in distress, whether they are celebrities, colleagues, or congregants. Listeners will gain insights on responsible feedback, the importance of an inner circle of support, and creating communities that nurture rather than critique. Episode Overview 00:00 Introduction to the episode and hosts 00:20 Exploring privacy, public concern, and the Ariana Grande controversy 01:26 Societal pressures and commentary on appearance 02:29 Do public figures sacrifice their privacy? 03:10 Personal experiences with public scrutiny—rabbis and celebrities alike 04:09 Reflecting on Britney Spears, Amy Winehouse, and public intervention 05:29 When and how should the public intervene to help? 06:18 Jewish models of giving feedback: Korach vs. Yitro 08:22 Context of Ariana Grande’s music video and its commentary 09:49 When support becomes harmful—personal story from Rabbi Leora Londy 12:28 Role of feedback in the rabbinate and community settings 13:50 Productive vs. hurtful feedback; handling comments on appearance 15:30 How staff and colleagues can offer care responsibly 17:47 Hierarchies, trust, and appropriate workplace feedback 19:12 Congregant feedback—when it helps, when it doesn’t 21:13 Appreciating honest, constructive criticism 22:49 Fostering a community of supportive feedback 23:37 Body image pressures, addiction, and the responsibilities of clergy 26:14 Protocols for supporting congregants in distress 27:27 The social pressures of high standards and conformity 28:27 Addressing addiction and providing resources 29:11 A direct message to listeners: you’re not alone, reach out 29:41 Outro and how to stay connected

When we allow ourselves to be vulnerable, we discover the true strength of community. What happens when support systems fail those most desperately in need? In this powerful episode, Rabbi Leora Londy and Rabbi Jonathan Jaffe tackle the deeply complex subject of women's mental health, inspired by the devastating Lindsay Clancy case. Drawing on personal experience, Jewish tradition, and real-world community dynamics, they explore questions of responsibility, stigma, and the roles we all play in supporting each other—especially when appearances hide real pain. The conversation offers lessons in compassion, the risks of stoicism, and practical steps for fostering genuine support within our communities. Timestamped Overview 00:00 Conversation introduction and framing: women's mental health00:30 Personal stories and the Lindsay Clancy case03:06 Mental health in Judaism: responsibility, the “shoteh,” and moral/legal implications10:02 Effective support: lessons from Israel and peer networks14:09 Stigma, silence, and the Jewish community's challenges16:23 High Holidays, birth, loss, and the spiritual lens19:29 Justice, judgment, and mercy in complex cases22:55 Jewish law, bystanders, and communal accountability24:22 Invitation to seek help and foster true community26:29 Embracing imperfection—linking vulnerability to the High Holidays28:25 Final words: reach out, support, and moving forward together

Engaging in respectful, challenging conversations—even when we disagree—can strengthen our communities and deepen our understanding of Jewish values. But what does Jewish tradition teach us about handling polarizing public issues like the recent Senate hearings with Dr. Fauci? In this episode, Rabbi Jonathan Jaffe and Rabbi Leora Londy reflect on the intersection of political theater, the preservation of life (pikuach nefesh), and the dangers of celebrity culture and partisanship during the pandemic. They discuss their personal experiences—Rabbi Leora Londy from Israel and Rabbi Jonathan Jaffe from the U.S.—debate the cost and benefit of various pandemic policies, and explore how humility, dissent, and communal responsibility are deeply rooted Jewish values that can guide us through divisive moments. Key highlights include a candid discussion on the flaws of hero-villain narratives, how the pandemic shaped communal trust, and what ancient wisdom can offer today's combative public discourse. Timestamped Overview [00:00] Introduction and overview[00:20] Jewish values guiding pandemic debates: Pikuach nefesh and fallibility[01:00] The primacy of preserving life in Judaism[04:14] Political theater, scapegoating, and Israel’s collective values during COVID[06:46] Differences in Israeli society; Haredi-community response[08:47] Honest reckoning with the costs and benefits of lockdowns[11:49] The impact and dangers of hubris: Dr. Fauci’s diaries and celebrity culture[16:41] Compassion, fallibility, and humility in leadership[19:26] The press, dissent, and the Jewish imperative to avoid groupthink[29:26] Modeling respectful disagreement and the role of community[31:11] Outro and closing remarks

Standing up for critical thinking and nuance in tumultuous times, this episode examines how political rhetoric at the highest levels can impact Jewish communities—and why thoughtful, honest conversation matters more than ever. The conversation focused on recent controversial statements from the New York City mayoral office and unpacked the layered impact on Jewish identity, safety, and leadership. One concept discussed was the persistent challenge of addressing both external antisemitism and internal division, particularly as outrage and extreme views dominate public discourse. A key theme that emerged was the importance of cultivating resilience and nuanced understanding within the Jewish community, even when feeling politically homeless. The discussion explored strategies for engaging the next generation, the dangers of social media echo chambers, and what real accountability and allyship should look like from political leaders. Timestamped Overview [00:00:00] Welcome & Introductions[00:00:23] Framing the Issue: NYC Mayoral Rhetoric and Its Impact[00:01:57] Emotional Reactions and Perceived Betrayal[00:05:03] Was It Naïveté or Reasonable Hope?[00:08:02] Importance of Engagement and Youth Perspectives[00:10:17] Outrage, Politics, and the Power of Social Media[00:13:31] Historical Parallels and New Generational Challenges[00:15:15] Pessimism, Critical Thinking, and Majority Impact[00:18:12] The Test for American Society[00:19:47] Nuance, Populism, and the Danger of Certainty[00:22:06] Conversations with Israelis: Complexity on the Ground[00:24:31] The Role of Israeli Extremism in International Perceptions[00:27:27] Moral Complexity, Military Leaders, and Hope for Politics[00:28:50] Diaspora Jews, Israeli Rhetoric, and Political Consequences[00:29:58] Everyday Jewish Life, Visibility, and Safety in NYC[00:32:18] What Would Restore Trust?[00:33:20] Refocusing Political Leadership: Hopes and Expectations[00:34:37] Closing & Resources