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.