Innovated

How Philanthropy Can Move The Needle with Hindy Poupko

In the season finale of the Innovated podcast, listeners are treated to an insightful discussion with Hindy Poupko, Senior Vice President at the UJA Federation of New York. Host Morielle Lotan, CEO of The ADIR Challenge, and Hindy explore the evolving landscape of Jewish philanthropy and its critical role in combatting antisemitism. They delve into Hindy’s unique approach to strategic philanthropy, her reflections on the challenges American Jews face, and how innovation goes beyond technology to rethink leadership and strategies. Hindy also shares her perspective on the importance of humility in philanthropy, the need for better data to track impact, and how American Jews have found meaningful ways to support both Israel and their local communities in the wake of October 7th. This season finale sheds light on how Jewish organizations can adapt and meet the moment in an ever-evolving landscape.

Jewish History, Memory and Antisemitism with Dr. Avinoam Patt

In this episode, listeners can expect an insightful exploration of how academic leadership and historical reflection play a crucial role in combatting antisemitism. Host Morielle Lotan speaks with Dr. Avinoam Patt, the inaugural director of NYU’s Center for the Study of Antisemitism, as they discuss the intersection of scholarship, activism, and the digital age’s influence on hate speech. Together, they navigate the challenges of fostering resilience, education, and innovation in the face of growing antisemitic threats. Dr. Avinoam Patt, a distinguished scholar and director of NYU’s Center for the Study of Antisemitism, brings decades of experience in Holocaust studies and modern Jewish history. With his unique perspective, Dr. Patt reflects on the October 7th events and shares how his research on Holocaust memory informs today’s efforts to fight hate. He emphasizes the power of interdisciplinary collaboration in academia and offers insights on how history can guide us in shaping a safer and more united future.

Inside the Extremist Mind with Dr. Liram Koblentz-Stenzler

In this eye-opening episode, Morielle Lotan sits down with Dr. Liram Koblentz Stenzler to explore the dark web of extremism, antisemitism, and radicalization. They delve into the disturbing ways extremist groups, from far-right to far-left, recruit vulnerable young minds and spread their toxic ideologies online. Dr. Stenzler sheds light on her groundbreaking research on the far-reaching impact of radicalization and her work in identifying key strategies for combatting these growing threats. The conversation also touches on the psychological mechanics behind extremist recruitment and how understanding these tactics can inform more effective long-term antisemitism strategies. Dr. Liram Koblentz Stenzler is an international expert in counterterrorism, antisemitism, and violent radicalization. With over a decade of experience, she focuses on extremist recruitment in the digital age, especially on the dark web and alternative social platforms. Dr. Stenzler has served as a lecturer at Yale University and Brandeis University and is the Director of the Initiative on Countering Violent Extremism and Antisemitism at IDC Herzliya. Her research explores the intersection of far-right and far-left ideologies, providing invaluable insights into the strategies needed to combat both antisemitism and online radicalization. Dr. Stenzler’s work has been widely recognized for its contribution to global security efforts, and her ongoing mission is to equip future leaders with the knowledge to counter these growing threats.

I'm That Jew with Eitan Chitayat

In this raw and heart-wrenching episode, Morielle Lotan sits down with Eitan Chitayat less than 24 hours after the murder of six precious, innocent souls by Hamas. The weight of grief and outrage is palpable as they explore the urgent need to reclaim Jewish identity and narrative in the face of mounting hatred. Eitan shares the deep responsibility he feels as an advocate and the overwhelming challenges of navigating a world increasingly divided. This conversation dives into the failure of leadership to promote public expressions of Jewish pride, the power of storytelling, and the critical role branding plays in reclaiming a narrative that has too often been hijacked. Together, they reflect on the necessity of unity and resilience in the face of growing threats. Eitan Chitayat is a creative force with over 25 years of experience in delivering brands for global giants like Apple, Google, YouTube, and Facebook. As the founder of Native Branding Agency, his work transcends industries, but what truly stands out is his advocacy for Jewish identity. His viral movie “I'm That Jew,” [https://youtu.be/sjEXomjpXPU] viewed by nearly 15 million people, encapsulates his dedication to promoting Jewish pride. His bold critique of Jewish leadership for not encouraging more public expression of Jewish identity has made him a leading voice in the call for a new kind of leadership, one that embraces cultural pride as a form of resistance to antisemitism.

American Intellectual Antisemitism with Shai Davidai

In this thought-provoking episode, Morielle Lotan speaks with Shai Davidai, who opens up about his transformation from a professor at Columbia Business School to a vocal advocate against antisemitism. Shai candidly shares his experiences, from dealing with profound grief and panic attacks to becoming a prominent voice in the fight against hatred on campus. This conversation dives deep into the emotional and psychological toll of standing up for truth and justice, exploring the complexities of activism and the cost of choosing to speak out when it would be easier to stay silent. Shai’s story is a powerful reminder of the resilience required to confront the pervasive forces of hate and the importance of moral clarity in today’s world. Shai Davidai is a former Assistant Professor at Columbia Business School, where he specialized in social psychology. His recent rise to prominence comes from his courageous stand against rising antisemitism on college campuses, particularly in the aftermath of the October 7 Hamas attacks. Despite facing personal and professional risks, including an investigation by Columbia University and being blocked from campus, Shai’s unwavering commitment to truth and justice has made him a significant figure in the fight for Jewish civil rights and against intellectual antisemitism in academia.