The New Jew Podcast

Episode 06: Two Journeys into Judaism – Kristine Simmons & Lenny Kravitz

In this thought-provoking episode of The New Jew Podcast, Rabbi Jon Cutler and Jonathan Argaman explore what Judaism means in everyday life through two very different stories. Kristine Simmons shares her inspiring path toward conversion, driven by her son's curiosity and her own search for meaning beyond a Christian upbringing. Lenny Kravitz reflects on a lifetime of Jewish identity, from childhood rituals to a more individualistic approach today. Together, they discuss belonging, community, spirituality, and the challenges of sustaining Jewish life in a secular world. This candid conversation dives into questions of identity versus practice, the role of synagogues, and how future generations will carry Judaism forward. Whether you're a lifelong Jew, a seeker, or simply curious, this episode offers deep insights into faith, family, and the enduring values that shape Jewish life.

Episode 5: Melinda and Steve Weisgal

This episode dives into the challenges and opportunities of supplemental religious education in the Jewish community, focusing on Hebrew school. The conversation explores personal experiences, generational shifts, and the evolving role of Jewish education in shaping identity and meaning. Key Topics * Personal Reflections: Steve Weisgal shares candid memories of his own Hebrew school experience, describing feelings of coercion, cultural disconnect, and the ritualistic nature of Jewish milestones like the bar mitzvah. * Parental Influence: Melinda Weisgal, who is not Jewish, discusses her strong belief in the importance of faith and cultural understanding for children. Her commitment played a pivotal role in ensuring her children received a Jewish education. * Community Engagement: The guests highlight the importance of active parental involvement in synagogue life, suggesting that modeling engagement and finding personal meaning are crucial for passing on Jewish values. * Educational Approaches: The episode praises innovative Hebrew school programs that keep children engaged through varied activities, hands-on learning, and a focus on meaning rather than rote ritual. * Identity vs. Meaning: The discussion distinguishes between practicing Judaism as a matter of identity versus seeking deeper meaning and spiritual enrichment, emphasizing the need for education that inspires lifelong connection.

Episode 04: Welcoming the Curious – Ellen Gerecht and the Case for Jewish Outreach

In this thought-provoking episode of The New Jew, Rabbi Jon Cutler and Jonathan Argaman sit down with Ellen Gerecht, head of the National Center to Encourage Judaism (NCEJ), to explore a bold and often overlooked strategy for Jewish continuity: actively inviting non-Jews to explore Judaism. Ellen shares the inspiring origin story of NCEJ, founded by her parents over 40 years ago with a simple but radical idea—market Judaism like any meaningful product, highlighting its benefits and welcoming spiritual seekers. Today, NCEJ funds programs across denominations and geographies, from intro-to-Judaism classes to interfaith holiday workshops, helping Jewish organizations reach new audiences. 💡 Highlights include: * Why Ellen believes Judaism should offer "free samples" like other faiths * The challenges of cost and accessibility in Jewish education * Success stories from London to Jamaica, and small-town America * A candid conversation about barriers, institutional priorities, and the need for a more proactive Jewish mission Whether you're a Jewish leader, spiritual seeker, or someone curious about how Judaism can grow in the 21st century, this episode offers fresh insight and a compelling call to action. 👉 Listen now and join the conversation about building a more welcoming Jewish future.

The New Jew Podcast Episode 03: Finding Meaning, Community, and Identity

In this episode, Rabbi Jon Cutler sits down with Eliana and Onya Meyers, and Sophie Zebrowski—three individuals whose journeys to Judaism are as unique as they are inspiring. Through candid conversation, the guests share their personal stories of conversion, the challenges and questions that led them to seek a new spiritual path, and the ways Judaism has shaped their lives. Onya Meyers describes her upbringing in a fundamentalist Christian household and the intellectual curiosity that ultimately led her family to the doors of Beth Israel. Sophie Zebrowski recounts her family's transition from Catholicism in Poland to discovering their Jewish roots and embracing Jewish traditions in America. The episode explores themes of questioning, belonging, and the importance of community. Listeners will hear how Shabbat rituals and synagogue life provide comfort, stability, and a sense of home—especially for young adults navigating college and life transitions. Eliana, the youngest guest, reflects honestly on her current ambivalence and the challenges of finding Jewish identity among peers. Together, the guests and Rabbi Cutler discuss the value of passing down traditions, the freedom to ask questions, and the responsibility to act and make a positive impact in the world. They also touch on the intersections of cultural backgrounds and the welcoming nature of Jewish communities. Tune in for a heartfelt, thought-provoking conversation about what it means to be Jewish today, the power of community, and the ongoing journey of finding meaning and purpose.

The New Jew Podcast Episode 2: A conversation with the Zebrowski family

This episode of The New Jew podcast features the Zebrowski family—Dominic, Anya, Daniel, Hannah, Lena, and Dovid—who all converted to Judaism under the supervision of Rabbi Jon Cutler in 2018. The family shares their incredible journey from growing up in Poland as devout Catholics to finding a spiritual home in Judaism, a process driven by a deep desire to build a strong ethical and moral foundation for their family