Here I Am With Shai Davidai

The Hidden War On Jewish Professors | Writer and Professor Andrew Pessin

In this episode, host Shai Davidai sits down with Andrew Pessin, a philosophy professor at Connecticut College and author of several books on anti-Semitism and philosophy. Andrew shares his personal journey, including his "Herzl moment"—the realization that anti-Zionism is a form of anti-Semitism—sparked by a social media controversy in 2015. He recounts the backlash he faced after a Facebook post about the Israel-Hamas conflict was taken out of context, leading to international outrage and threats. The conversation explores the rise of anti-Zionism and anti-Semitism on college campuses, the challenges faced by Jewish and Zionist professors and students, and the broader societal implications. Andrew also discusses his ongoing work documenting campus incidents, the importance of Jewish education, and his hope for the next generation. This candid discussion sheds light on the complexities of identity, academic freedom, and the fight against bigotry in today’s world. Guest: Andrew Pessin 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 [https://gofund.me/30c00151c] COMING SOON BUY MERCH! SUPPORT SHAI ON PATREON! https://www.patreon.com/shaidavidai/about?utm_source=campaign-search-results [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/ [https://rss.com/podcasts/hereiamwithshaidavidai/] Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/here-i-am-with-shai-davidai/id1757483524 [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/here-i-am-with-shai-davidai/id1757483524] Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6pI03BMwAuQDbYIy4Zp6ah?si=2bd1c3f8a11c46cd [https://open.spotify.com/show/6pI03BMwAuQDbYIy4Zp6ah?si=2bd1c3f8a11c46cd] #hereiampodcast #shaidavidai #AndrewPessin #podcast #jewishidentity #Antisemitism #AntiZionism #israel #campuslife #academicfreedom #jewishcommunity #zionisme #jewishhistory #CollegeCampuses #socialjustice #jewisheducation #jewishvoices #jewishpride #JewishStudents #JewishProfessors #CancelCulture #freespeech #jewishpodcast #JewishIssues #jewishphilosophy #JewishRights #JewishSafety #JewishSolidarity #JewishSupport #jewishexperience 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 achi@adamitproductions.com [achi@adamitproductions.com]

I Didn’t Plan to Go Viral. I Just Had to Speak | Vanessa Hidary

In this powerful episode, host Shai Davidai sits down with Vanessa Hidary, a Sephardic Jew, acclaimed spoken word artist, and Def Poetry Jam alum. Vanessa shares her journey of embracing her Jewish identity with pride and authenticity, breaking stereotypes in the spoken word scene. She discusses her upbringing in New York’s diverse neighborhoods, the creation of her signature piece “Hebrew Mamita,” and the challenges of navigating identity, representation, and community—especially in the wake of October 7th, 2023. Vanessa opens up about her experiences with anti-Semitism, the evolution of her activism, and the importance of celebrating Jewish diversity. The episode features moving poetry, honest reflections, and a message of unity and resilience. Guest: Vanessa Hidary 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]GofundDonate to Support the Here I Am with Shai Davidai Podcast, organized by Shai Davidai [https://gofund.me/30c00151c] COMING SOON BUY MERCH! SUPPORT SHAI ON PATREON!  [https://www.patreon.com/shaidavidai/about?utm_source=campaign-search-results]PatreonGet more from Here I Am with Shai Davidai 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/]RssHere I Am With Shai Davidai | Podcast on [https://rss.com/podcasts/hereiamwithshaidavidai/]RSS.com [http://RSS.com] Apple Podcasts:  [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/here-i-am-with-shai-davidai/id1757483524]AppleHere I Am With Shai Davidai [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/here-i-am-with-shai-davidai/id1757483524] Spotify:  [https://open.spotify.com/show/6pI03BMwAuQDbYIy4Zp6ah?si=2bd1c3f8a11c46cd]SpotifyHere I Am With Shai Davidai [https://open.spotify.com/show/6pI03BMwAuQDbYIy4Zp6ah?si=2bd1c3f8a11c46cd] 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 achi@adamitproductions.com [achi@adamitproductions.com]

The $1 Habit That Raised Millions For Charity | Dr. Johnathan Donath

In this inspiring episode, host Shai Davidai sits down with Dr. Johnathan Donath, entrepreneur and founder of Daily Giving. Dr. Donath shares his personal journey, from his family’s legacy of generosity to the life-changing moment that inspired him to launch Daily Giving—a platform that empowers thousands to give charity every single day. Together, they discuss the power of daily acts of kindness, the impact of automated giving, and the challenges and rewards of building a global nonprofit. Dr. Donath also opens up about the emotional stories behind the charities they support, the importance of community, and the lessons he’s learned about perseverance, disappointment, and hope. Tune in for heartfelt stories, practical wisdom, and a powerful reminder of the difference one person—and one dollar a day—can make. Guest: Dr. Johnathan Donath 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 [https://gofund.me/30c00151c] COMING SOON BUY MERCH! SUPPORT SHAI ON PATREON! https://www.patreon.com/shaidavidai/about?utm_source=campaign-search-results [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/ [https://rss.com/podcasts/hereiamwithshaidavidai/] Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/here-i-am-with-shai-davidai/id1757483524 [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/here-i-am-with-shai-davidai/id1757483524] Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6pI03BMwAuQDbYIy4Zp6ah?si=2bd1c3f8a11c46cd [https://open.spotify.com/show/6pI03BMwAuQDbYIy4Zp6ah?si=2bd1c3f8a11c46cd] #HereIAm #ShaiDavidai #DrJohnathanDonath #DailyGiving #Charity #GivingBack #JewishCommunity #Nonprofit #Philanthropy #Kindness #Inspiration #Podcast #JewishValues #ActsOfKindness #CommunityImpact #Tzedakah #Mitzvah #Hope #Humanity #SocialGood #ChangeMakers #JewishPodcast #Generosity #MakingADifference #CharityWork #JewishLife #PersonalGrowth #Empowerment #Faith #Compassion 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 achi@adamitproductions.com [achi@adamitproductions.com]

A 9 year Old's Experience After October 7th | A Very Personal Interview with Shai's Son | O. Davidai

In this special episode, host Shai Davidai sits down with his nine-year-old son, O. Davidai, for a heartfelt and insightful conversation. Together, they explore what it’s like to be a kid during challenging times, discussing topics such as identity, family, activism, and the impact of the Israel-Hamas war from a child’s perspective. O. shares his feelings about participating in protests, the importance of being an “upstander,” and how kids experience and process world events differently from adults. The episode also touches on Jewish identity, the meaning of being Israeli-American, and the value of treating children with respect and honesty. This candid dialogue offers a unique, honest look at big issues through the eyes of a child, making it a must-watch for viewers of all ages. Guest: O. 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 [https://gofund.me/30c00151c] COMING SOON BUY MERCH! SUPPORT SHAI ON PATREON! https://www.patreon.com/shaidavidai/about?utm_source=campaign-search-results [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/ [https://rss.com/podcasts/hereiamwithshaidavidai/] Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/here-i-am-with-shai-davidai/id1757483524 [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/here-i-am-with-shai-davidai/id1757483524] Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6pI03BMwAuQDbYIy4Zp6ah?si=2bd1c3f8a11c46cd [https://open.spotify.com/show/6pI03BMwAuQDbYIy4Zp6ah?si=2bd1c3f8a11c46cd] #HereIAmPodcast #ShaiDavidai #ODavidai #PodcastInterview #JewishIdentity #IsraeliAmerican #FamilyConversation #ChildsPerspective #IsraelHamasWar #Activism #Upstander #JewishCommunity #JewishVoices #Protest #Hostages #JewishLife #JewishPride #AntiSemitism #YouthVoices #Parenting #FamilyBond #BeingJewish #JewishDiaspora #JewishCulture #JewishHeritage #PodcastEpisode #HonestConversations #KidsPerspective #CurrentEvents #Empathy #SocialJustice #JewishActivism #Hope #Optimism #TreatKidsWithRespect 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 achi@adamitproductions.com [achi@adamitproductions.com]

The Beauty Queen Who Served on Israel's Frontlines | Noa Cochva

In this powerful episode of “Here I Am,” host Shai Davidai sits down with Noa Cochva—Miss Israel 2021, IDF combat medic, and advocate. Noa shares her inspiring journey from growing up in a small Israeli village to serving as a combat medic and instructor in the IDF, including her experiences on the Gaza border during the war. She opens up about the challenges of treating both soldiers and civilians, the ethical dilemmas faced by medics, and the emotional toll of war. Noa also discusses her unexpected path to becoming Miss Israel, the viral advocacy videos she created during her reserve duty, and the impact of both support and hate she’s received online. She reflects on her family’s Holocaust legacy, her evolving Jewish identity, and her mission to inspire and unite Jewish communities worldwide. This episode is a testament to resilience, courage, and the power of using one’s voice for good. This season is dedicated to Shai’s grandmother, Leah Davidai, who passed away earlier this year. Sponsored in part by Iron Dome Coffee, visit www.irondomecoffee.com [http://www.irondomecoffee.com] and use the code HERE I AM for an exclusive discount just for our listeners. Guest: Noa Cochva 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! COMING SOON BUY MERCH! SUPPORT SHAI ON PATREON! https://www.patreon.com/shaidavidai/about?utm_source=campaign-search-results [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/ [https://rss.com/podcasts/hereiamwithshaidavidai/] Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/here-i-am-with-shai-davidai/id1757483524 [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/here-i-am-with-shai-davidai/id1757483524] Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6pI03BMwAuQDbYIy4Zp6ah?si=2bd1c3f8a11c46cd [https://open.spotify.com/show/6pI03BMwAuQDbYIy4Zp6ah?si=2bd1c3f8a11c46cd] #HereIAm #NoaCochva #ShaiDavidai #MissIsrael #IDF #CombatMedic #WomenInTheMilitary #JewishPride #Israel #GazaWar #HolocaustSurvivor #JewishIdentity #WomenEmpowerment #Advocacy #JewishCommunity #Resilience #Courage #Peace #Coexistence #AntiSemitism #JewishHeritage #Inspiration #Podcast #JewishVoices #SupportIsrael #WomenLeaders #JewishWomen #Humanitarian #TikkunOlam #JewishUnity #JewishHistory 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 achi@adamitproductions.com [achi@adamitproductions.com]