On this episode, Daniel Herz is joined by Rabbi Jeremy Ruberg, the Rabbi for Lifelong Learning at Temple Emanu-El of Closter to discuss what it means to "light the candle of engagement," for young Jews. From the complexities of raising kids in today's digital world to an explanation of Rabbi Jeremy's "Gym Theory" of Jewish life, this episode tackles a plethora of issues facing parents, youth, and all of us looking to cultivate community. This episode is proudly sponsored by the Jewish Federation of Northern New Jersey.

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On this episode, Daniel Herz is joined by Jason Shames, Chief Executive Officer of the Jewish Federation of Northern New Jersey for a discussion on the current state of safety, security, and solidarity within the Jewish community in New Jersey and across North America.

Despite the heavy challenges presented by hate and antisemitism, Jason highlights the incredible positive impact of Federation's work, from funding lifesaving bomb shelters in northern Israel and providing over a million dollars annually for senior nutrition, to helping connect the area's 125,000 Jewish residents. Plus, so many more inspiring stories and ways anyone can get involved in strengthening our Jewish community here in New Jersey and around the globe!

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Sponsored by: Jewish Federation of Northern New Jersey

Daniel Herz sits down with community leader Donna Weintraub for a powerful and deeply personal conversation following their recent mission to Israel as board members of the Jewish Federation of Northern New Jersey.

Together, they explore what “the mission” truly means, not just as a trip but as a responsibility and a call to action. Through firsthand reflections, Daniel and Donna share unforgettable encounters, including the courage of a Nova festival survivor who faced unimaginable terror, and the strength of Meirav Leshem Gonen, a mother turned global advocate for her kidnapped son.

This episode is both moving and inspiring, highlighting how ordinary individuals rise to extraordinary moments and how each of us can play a role in supporting Israel and one another during challenging times.

If you are looking for stories of resilience, purpose, and impact, this is a conversation you will not want to miss.

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So this is episode one of Jew-ish: Where Everyone Belongs! You are probably asking yourself, WHAT ARE WE DOING HERE? Well, this new Jews for NJ podcast is hosted by Chair, Board of Trustees’ of the Jewish Federation of Northern New Jersey, Daniel Herz, and in this inaugural episode, Daniel welcomes Laura Freeman, the lead of Jews for NJ and Managing Director of marketing & communications at the Jewish Federation of Northern New Jersey, as they put a spotlight on the urgent need to unite New Jersey's 600,000+ Jewish residents and how we can get everyone to feel more connected and be collectively heard!

Tune in as Daniel and Laura discuss discuss real-world incidents of rising anti-semitism, including a recent incident involving influencer like Dave Portnoy, as well as the highly organized anti-Israel protests happening on college campuses. They also break down the "horseshoe effect," exploring how the extreme left and extreme right are finding common ground in their hatred of Jewish people.

Learn how Jews for NJ is empowering the community to take collective action and discover how you can get involved, volunteer, and proudly support the diaspora. This episode is proudly sponsored by the Jewish Federation of Northern New Jersey.

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