Why "Bad Jew" Is a Lie: Belonging Over Observance with Jonah Platt

Why Be Jewish? Rabbi David Wolpe on Hope, Education, and the Jewish Future

What if the most influential rabbi in America told you the Exodus probably didn’t happen exactly as the Bible describes on Passover? In this episode of The Jewish Tomorrow, host Robert Richman sits down with Rabbi David Wolpe, named by Newsweek as the most influential rabbi in America, to delve into the future of Jewish identity, community, and belief. Rabbi Wolpe reflects on how October 7th has shifted Jewish emphasis toward peoplehood, the crisis of Jewish education, and the need for new institutional models. He shares his cautious perspective on AI, warning against losing serendipity and human faculties, while acknowledging its potential to spark religious revival. The discussion touches on the difference between spirituality (which demands nothing) and religion (which demands action), the underestimated value of the ADL, and why gathering with other Jews for Jewish purposes is the “minimum viable Judaism.” Wolpe also challenges Jewish pessimism, quoting Rabbi Nachman: “The great sin is despair.” He urges hope, action, and small daily kindnesses. The episode closes with Wolpe teasing his upcoming book on religious values America has lost, decency, humility, and gratitude, and a reminder that any entry point into Jewish learning is a good one. In This Episode: * [00:00] Welcome and guest introduction    * [02:22] Why Be Jewish? – Then and now, post-October 7th  * [04:11] The tragedy of Jewish education ending * [06:00] The Talmud as ancient Reddit * [08:34] The birth of rabbinic Judaism after the Temple’s destruction * [10:17] Three forces reshaping Judaism * [14:10] Kindness as a daily practice   * [20:27] Innovating synagogue experiences   * [21:35] Can AI create personalized “Torah” or study plans? * [25:20] Why great educators matter    * [26:57] Making Judaism a brand and “cool”  * [30:34] Teshuva and the value of boredom   * [31:46] Minimum viable Judaism   * [32:57] The danger of AI becoming a new “religion” * [34:06] Are Jews over-focusing on antisemitism? * [35:21] How the rabbi role is changing   * [40:40] The role of proselytization in Judaism * [41:49] Choosing hope over despair   * [42:51] Finding your way into learning   * [44:35]  A book on religious values that America has lost Notable Quotes * [05:25] “There is more Jewish content available in every conceivable form than there has ever been in history. The question right now is someone’s motivation.” — Rabbi David Wolpe * [15:00] “If you love somebody, you treat them lovingly. If you treat them lousy, you don’t love them.” — Rabbi David Wolpe * [15:36] “ Kindness is, exhibited in very small things sometimes, and it's exhibited in grand gestures.” — Rabbi David Wolpe * [42:14] “The great sin is despair.” — Rabbi David Wolpe * [42:20] “To be religious is to be in some deep sense hopeful.” — Rabbi David Wolpe Our Guest Rabbi David Wolpe was named the most influential rabbi in America by Newsweek. He led Sinai Temple in Los Angeles for 26 years, one of the largest congregations in the country. He’s the author of eight books, including Why Be Jewish?, Making Loss Matter, and David: The Divided Heart. He has debated Christopher Hitchens, Sam Harris, and Richard Dawkins and more than held his own. In 2001, he stood on his own bimah on Passover and told his congregation the Exodus likely didn’t happen as literally described, sparking a national controversy. He now hosts the podcast SaAPIR with Bret Stephens and continues to write, teach, and speak on Judaism, ethics, and the future of faith. Resources and Links Rabbi David Wolpe * Website & archive: sinaitemple.org  [https://www.sinaitemple.org/about/clergy-senior-staff/rabbi-david-wolpe/] * Podcast: SAPIR [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sapir-conversations/id1583771945] * Facebook: Rabbi Wolpe [https://www.facebook.com/RabbiWolpe/mentions/] * X (Twitter): @RabbiWolpe [https://x.com/RabbiWolpe] * Book: Why Be Jewish? [https://www.amazon.com/Why-Be-Jewish-David-Wolpe/dp/0805039279] by Rabbi David Wolpe Robert Richman * Website [https://www.aju.edu/] * LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertrichman] * Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/robberichman/?hl=en] Mentioned * Here All Along [https://www.amazon.com/Here-All-Along-Spirituality-Life/dp/0525510710] by Sarah Hurwitz * Essential Judaism [https://www.amazon.com/Essential-Judaism-Updated-Complete-Beliefs/dp/1501117750] by George Robinson * The Master and His Emissary [https://www.amazon.com/Master-His-Emissary-Divided-Western/dp/0300188374] by Iain McGilchrist * Judaism Unbound (Bound) [https://www.amazon.com/Judaism-Unbound-Bound-Conversations-Practitioners/dp/1963475666] by Dan Libenson, Lex Rofeberg *  Nobody Wants This [https://www.netflix.com/ke/title/81591296]

Why "Bad Jew" Is a Lie: Belonging Over Observance with Jonah Platt

What does it really take to build a meaningful Jewish future in a world shaped by AI, shifting identities, and constant distraction? Can ancient rituals like Shabbat and Havdalah do more than endure, can they actually become anchors in a hyper digital age? In this episode of The Jewish Tomorrow, host Robert Richman sits down with Jonah Platt, host of the number one Jewish podcast Being Jewish, to explore the future of Jewish identity, community, and meaning. Jonah shares how he uses AI as a creative thought partner, not to replace his voice but to sharpen it. He reflects on his own Jewish day school experience, the missing “why” in Jewish education, and how his wife’s conversion deepened his own commitment. The conversation tackles big questions. Should Jews be more “evangelical” about their traditions? Can Shabbat become as universal as yoga? Jonah makes a compelling case for Shabbat as Judaism’s killer app, a weekly reset that offers mental wellness and presence in a hyperconnected world. They also discuss the impact of October 7th, the rise of contemporary Jewish storytelling in Hollywood, and the danger of short form content eroding attention spans and meaning. Jonah calls for more Jewish joy and less fear, arguing that confident, self celebrating communities are the best defense against antisemitism. For anyone feeling disconnected, whether lapsed or simply curious, Jonah offers two entry points: read Sarah Hurwitz’s Here All Along, or better yet, light some candles, grab challah and juice, and try Shabbat. No rabbi required. In This Episode: * [00:00] Introduction * [01:15] Jonah Platt’s background and use of AI * [02:37] AI in creative and organizational processes * [05:21] Jewish day school experiences * [08:08] The importance of “why be Jewish?” in education * [11:30] Should Judaism be more evangelical? * [13:21] Shabbat as Judaism’s “killer app” * [16:16] Modern approaches to Shabbat observance * [18:14] Havdalah: the undersold ritual * [20:20] Contemporary Jewish storytelling and media * [26:22] Judaism as a text-based tradition * [27:23] General future trends and AI * [29:07] Curiosity, open-mindedness, and meaning * [31:49] Misconceptions and pet peeves about Judaism * [34:27] The Jewish future: opportunity and challenge * [35:48] AI and digital security in the Jewish future * [47:37] Celebrating Jewish joy and excellence * [51:05] Advice for lapsed Jews: where to start * [56:03] Closing remarks Notable Quotes * [47:44] "The best way to combat antisemitism is a loud, proud, confident Jewish community that celebrates itself – without worrying about the optics." — Jonah Platt * [13:46] "Shabbat should be like yoga. A Hindu practice that the whole world adopted because it's so useful. The principles of Shabbat are universal especially today." — Jonah Platt * [25:30] "You can't find deep meaning in your life if you're only tapping into something for four seconds at a time." — Jonah Platt * [54:43] "There's no such thing as a bad Jew. The kind of Jew you are is the kind of person you are. It's never all or nothing. You can pick and choose." — Jonah Platt Our Guest Jonah Platt is a Broadway actor, writer, producer, and host of the #1 Jewish podcast Being Jewish, where he's built one of the most compelling spaces for Jewish conversation today. His guest list spans Cheryl Sandberg, Van Jones, Cindy Crawford, Josh Gad, Tiffany Haddish, and Jason Alexander. A graduate of Jewish day school and a lifelong Shabbat practitioner, Jonah brings rare warmth, intellectual rigor, and a performer's instinct for connection to every conversation. Jonah believes the Jewish future isn't about more Holocaust movies or defensive posturing – it's about joy, confidence, and showing up Resources and Links Jonah Platt * Website [https://www.jonahplatt.com/] * Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/jonahplatt/] * Podcast [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/being-jewish-with-jonah-platt/id1767185986] Robert Richman * Website [https://www.aju.edu/] * LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertrichman] * Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/robberichman/?hl=en] Mentioned Books * Here All Along [https://www.amazon.com/Here-All-Along-Spirituality-Life/dp/0525510710] by Sarah Hurwitz * Jews Don't Count [https://www.amazon.com/s?k=jews+don%27t+count+david+baddiel&adgrpid=195837065692&hvadid=789730854460&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=9076854&hvnetw=g&hvqmt=e&hvrand=2613482722814994427&hvtargid=kwd-1168194781366&hydadcr=28044_14727836&mcid=68308f9d7f82329c923c06a65fb34caf&tag=hydglogoo-20&ref=pd_sl_3ugm0m2qg6_e] by David Baddiel * Why Be Jewish? [https://www.amazon.com/Why-Be-Jewish-David-Wolpe/dp/0805039279] by Rabbi David Wolpe Podcast Episodes * Jonah's episode with David Baddiel [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HzEutobfj5E] * Jonah's episode with his mom [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f0Q-1ZTyYJA]

Disruption, Legacy, and the Jewish Future We Actually Want with Jay Sanderson

What if the key to a vibrant Jewish future isn't about defending the past or pouring money into old models, but about a radical reinvention, one centered on belonging, storytelling, and fearless adaptation? In a world of rapid change, rising antisemitism, and shifting identities, the question isn't just how we survive, but how we thrive. In this episode of The Jewish Tomorrow podcast, host Robert Richman sits down with the legendary Jay Sanderson, media pioneer, former CEO of the Jewish Federation, and now President & CEO of American Jewish University. Jay shares his incredible personal journey from a traumatic childhood in Boston housing projects to a transformative meeting with David Ben-Gurion, exploring how these experiences forged an "unafraid" leader. The conversation dives deep into the urgent need to disrupt outdated Jewish institutional models, prioritize the next generation, and rebuild a Judaism defined by purpose, inclusion, and dynamic storytelling. Together, they confront hard truths about denominational relevance, the cost of Jewish life, and the critical shift from fighting against antisemitism to fighting for a compelling Jewish future. Let’s dive in! In This Episode: * 00:00 Episode preview and introduction * 01:28 Meet Jay Sanderson * 02:13 Why the Jewish future needs a longer view * 04:07 Why old Jewish labels are fading * 05:41 Can Judaism adapt without losing its core? * 07:14 Young Jews are gathering differently now * 09:15 The real barriers to Jewish engagement * 11:27 Moving Jewish life beyond politics * 12:08 Disruption as a Jewish leadership mindset * 13:20 Why free Jewish education is not enough * 14:15 The synagogue model people are rejecting * 15:18 Why the Jewish world needs to fail more * 18:39 The evolving role of rabbis * 22:34 The rabbinic skills communities need now * 24:43 Why welcoming people changes everything * 25:40 Seeing Judaism through fresh eyes * 27:05 How do we measure Jewish success? * 29:42 AI, technology, and the Jewish future * 30:52 Why AI is an opportunity and a challenge * 32:05 Why Jewish institutions cannot stand still * 33:19 Changing the conversation around antisemitism * 34:06 Jay Sanderson’s vision for what comes next * 34:27 Closing thoughts Notable Quotes * [00:02:56] "I believe our story is an extraordinary story, but we need to take control of it going forward." - Jay Sanderson * [00:15:24] "We are unable and unwilling to fail. You learn from failures, not from successes." - Jay Sanderson * [00:24:59] "Being Jewish is complicated, and it should be somewhat complicated. It just shouldn't be as complicated as it is right now." - Jay Sanderson * [00:26:40] "We all know what it feels like to be slaves, and we all know what it feels like to be free." - Jay Sanderson Our Guest Jay Sanderson is one of the most influential voices in Jewish communal life today. A lifelong storyteller and disruptor, Jay has served as Executive Producer of the Jewish Television Network, President and CEO of the Jewish Federation, and now President and CEO of American Jewish University. Known for challenging entrenched systems and reimagining Jewish engagement, Jay brings a bold, future-focused lens to leadership, education, and belonging. His work centers on asking better questions, embracing experimentation, and building Jewish life that helps people truly thrive. Resources and Links Jay Sanderson * Website [https://www.aju.edu/about-aju/leadership/meet-jay-sanderson-president] * LinkedI [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jay-sanderson-0a87a918b/]n Robert Richman * Website [https://www.aju.edu/] * LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertrichman] * Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/robberichman/?hl=en]

What Will Judaism Look Like in 2070? with Becca Leviss

What if the future of Judaism was shaped less by fear and survival, and more by imagination, pluralism, storytelling, and possibility? In this episode of The Jewish Tomorrow, host Robert Richman sits down with Becca Leviss, Jewish futurist, organizer, facilitator, and founder of the Judeo Futurism Project, for a powerful conversation on Jewish futures, American Judaism in 2070, Jewish identity, spiritual imagination, strategic foresight, and what it means to build communities rooted in collective flourishing. Together, Robert and Becca explore why futurism is deeply Jewish, how Torah, Midrash, Talmud, diaspora, ritual, and storytelling can help us reimagine what Judaism becomes next, and why Jewish institutions must move beyond grief, trauma, and fear-based survival narratives. From protopia and Jewish pluralism to AI, art, time, truth, and the future of the American Jewish community, this conversation asks a bold question: What else is possible? In This Episode * [00:00] Episode preview and introduction * [02:24] What is Judeo-futurism, and did Becca Leviss coin the term? * [05:03] Why futurism feels inherently Jewish and how Jewish tradition has always imagined the future * [07:41] How ancient religious texts, prophetic literature, and science fiction share a tradition of imagination * [09:56] Why Torah, Jewish text, and tradition can handle wrestling, reinterpretation, and hard questions * [11:32] How Judaism understands time as a spiral, not a straight line * [14:24] How truth, deepfakes, media, and technology are changing the future of belief and identity * [18:39] Why futurism is having a moment during times of crisis, uncertainty, and existential pressure * [20:35] Becca’s framework for Jewish futurism, including ritual, theology, strategic foresight, and other futurist traditions * [23:19] How AI, art, storytelling, and culture production may shape the future of Jewish imagination * [27:20] What protopia means and why it moves us beyond the utopia-versus-dystopia binary * [29:24] How regendering Biblical text can unlock new layers of Torah and radical Jewish reimagination * [31:43] Why fear, violence, and grief can shut down imagination and make alternative futures harder to see * 35:46] Why Becca believes being Jewish is fundamental to how she moves through the world * [39:57] Where to learn more about the Judeo Futurism Project and Becca’s work Our Guest Becca Leviss is a Jewish futurist, organizer, facilitator, and the founder and director of the Judeo Futurism Project, a multidisciplinary initiative using art, scholarship, ritual, and strategic foresight to help American Jewish communities imagine futures beyond grief, trauma, and fear-based survival. She is currently developing a virtual and physical art exhibition exploring what American Judaism could look like in 2070, while also training graduate students in adaptive leadership and organizational change at Harvard Kennedy School and the Harvard Graduate School of Education. Resources and Links Becca Leviss * LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/becca-leviss/] * The Judeofuturism Project [https://www.judeofuturism.org/] Robert Richman * Website [https://www.aju.edu/] * LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertrichman] * Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/robberichman/?hl=en]

Trailer

We’re asking the questions no one else is: If everyone is fighting anti-Semitism… what are we really fighting for? What does being Jewish mean today? And what should The Jewish Tomorrow look like? But we’re also asking: How will breakthroughs in technology, shifting cultural trends, and new ideas redefine our lives and work in the future? Hosted by Robert Richman, The Jewish Tomorrow explores how the future is unfolding. Follow now and visit thejewishtomorrow.com [http://thejewishtomorrow.com/]