Shebrew in the City

Guess who's at our Shebrew in the City table today? Amy Kritzer-Becker, the creative foodie behind the blog What Jew Wanna Eat, and co-owner of Modern Tribe. We take a ride down memory lane, exploring Amy's Jewish roots in Connecticut, her dynamic journey to culinary school, and ultimately, how she's shaking up the definition of modern Jewish culture. Learn how she spins tradition into innovation, bringing Jewish holidays to life in a contemporary world filled with unique Judaica and festive food.
Fasten your seat belts as we embark on a lighthearted, mouthwatering exploration of Jewish cuisine. From Amy's favorite Ashkenazi dishes to the quirky blend of diverse cultures that have shaped Jewish food, we savor every flavor. We also dig into Amy's adventurous life as a food blogger and entrepreneur, her experiments with unique Jewish recipes, and her intriguing escapades in Puerto Rico. Be prepared to chuckle over hilarious anecdotes about food-themed costumes, theme parties, and Amy's tireless quest to perfect her cooking skills.
Finally, we delve into the intimate side of Amy's life. Parenting, the joys of Jewish holidays, and the deeply personal traditions that radiate Jewish joy. The journey is not always rosy, as we candidly talk about the struggles faced by the Jewish community. We also dive into an open discussion about embracing Jewish identity, fostering it in our children, and the importance of being resilient in the face of anti-Semitism. So, join us in this heartwarming, endearing, and humorous conversation. Trust us, you won't want to miss it!

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Embark on a nuanced exploration of a legend's legacy with us as we sift through the layers of history surrounding Walt Disney. Discover the truth behind the myths of anti-Semitism and learn about Disney's controversial rendezvous with Leni Riefenstahl, juxtaposed against the hallowed adoration many have for the magic of Disneyland. Reflect with us, Southern California natives who've grown up under the spell of Disney's cultural phenomenon, on how these controversies have shaped our perceptions and the broader narrative of this entertainment empire.
Hollywood's golden era wasn't just about glitz and glamour; it was a time riddled with complex dance between race, politics, and the silver screen. From Clark Gable's stand with black actors to Disney's own entanglement with the Motion Picture Alliance, we unpack the intricate web of celebrity involvement in political movements. Delve into the lesser-known corners of Disney's history, such as his philanthropic efforts within the Jewish community and the iconic Sherman brothers' musical genius, as we strip away the layers of rumor to reveal the man behind the mouse.
Confront the discomfort of history's racial insensitivities head-on in our candid discussion about "Song of the South" and other cultural artifacts. Join us as we grapple with the ethics of retroactively judging historical actions, examining Disney's wartime propaganda cartoons and controversial character depictions. It's a journey through the past that questions our modern perspectives and invites a thoughtful dialogue on the complexity of cultural legacy. Share your thoughts as we continue this important conversation on social media and Patreon, where the exploration of these intricate topics extends beyond the airwaves.

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Elana Frank's journey from Atlanta to Israel and back is nothing short of inspiring, as she intertwines her personal history with her professional mission. With roots tracing back to Holocaust survivors and tales of resilience from her father, Ilana's story is deeply moving and thought-provoking. Her adventurous chapter in Israel during the 2009 recession adds a layer of cultural richness, ultimately bringing her back to Atlanta where her passion for supporting those facing fertility challenges took root.
In our conversation, Elana opens up about the profound disparities in access to fertility treatments between Israel and the United States and how these shaped the founding of the Jewish Fertility Foundation. As we explore the foundation's expansion and the impactful Fertility Buddies program, it's clear how essential community and understanding are in navigating the emotional complexities of infertility. We also dive into the social and financial pressures individuals face and why having a dedicated support system can make all the difference.
This episode isn't just about Ilana's narrative; it's a testament to the power of support and connection. With insights into the role of clergy, interfaith inclusivity, and the importance of postpartum resources, we cover a spectrum of topics that champion empathy and understanding. Nicole also shares her aspirations, reminding us of the transformative impact philanthropy can have. This conversation underscores the resilience of the human spirit and the necessity of community in overcoming life's challenges.

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Dana Arschin joins us for a profound exploration of her family's enduring legacy and the critical role of Holocaust education in today's world. Growing up in a predominantly Jewish community on Long Island, Dana reflects on the impact of her mother's experiences as a child of Holocaust survivors. She shares deeply personal stories of generational trauma and how they have shaped her identity and fueled her dedication to preserving Jewish heritage through her work. Dana’s unique blend of tradition and modernity offers insights into the resilience of the Jewish community, highlighting her commitment as a Holocaust storyteller.
As we delve into the heart of World War II survival stories, Dana recounts the harrowing journey of her "Poppy", Nat Ross, who faced unimaginable adversities. These moving accounts bring to light the indomitable spirit of those who lived through Nazi persecution, drawing strength from unity and hope. From forced labor camps to encounters with infamous figures like Dr. Josef Mengele, Dana vividly brings these stories to life, emphasizing the importance of remembering and sharing them. Her storytelling not only honors her family's past but also serves as a testament to the resilience and unity that emerged from such dark times.
Dana's transition from traditional journalism to Holocaust storytelling marks a significant chapter in her career. With an impressive background that includes an Emmy-winning documentary, "Forgotten Camps," she has successfully merged her passion for history with her skills in journalism. As the first storyteller for the Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance Center of Nassau County, Dana continues to raise awareness and engage audiences with impactful narratives. Her journey serves as an inspiring example of how personal history and professional ambition can intertwine to preserve crucial historical narratives for future generations.

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Are you ready for eight days of lights, miracles, and mouth-watering food? We, Nicole and Patrick Kelly, invite you to embark on a captivating journey through the rich universe of Hanukkah. From historical treasures and bustle of present-day celebrations, this episode illuminates the essence of Hanukkah. We uncover layers of cultural significance and pull out fascinating tidbits about how the commercialization of Hanukkah influences our experience of the holiday today.
Hanukkah isn't just about history; it's a vibrant tapestry of traditions and celebrations that season our lives with joy and connection. Embrace the warmth of candlelit blessings, the competitive thrill of a dreidel game, and the gastronomic adventure of savoring latkes and sufganiyot (jelly-filled donuts). From the excitement of our childhood memories to our discovering new holiday recipes, we bring Hanukkah straight into your living room. But that's not all, we also explore the less common but surprisingly delicious roast goose and discuss the evolving identity of Hanukkah in America.
This episode also delves into the intriguing world of Christmukkah, a fusion of Christmas and Hanukkah traditions. Discover its 19th century German roots and how interfaith families today embrace it with warmth and creativity. We also shed light on the commercialization of the holiday season, from the rise of ornaments and decorations featuring both Jewish and Christmas symbols, and even the trend of Hanukkah advent calendars. Along our journey, we explore public menorah lightings, the controversial use of mascots, and the role of Mahjong in Hanukkah gift-giving. Finally, we share our thoughts on celebrating Hanukkah with loved ones and making the most of this special holiday. So, let's light up those menorah candles, spin the dreidel, and create beautiful Hanukkah memories together!

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