I thought religion might divide us. Instead, it shaped everything we became.This episode dives deep into love, faith, and identity — following a couple who built a Jewish family that didn’t fit the mold. It’s a story about the tension between devotion and tradition, how community can both challenge and embrace, and what it really takes to belong. You’ll hear how one family redefined what “Jewish continuity” looks like in today’s world — and what we can all learn about courage, compassion, and connection from their journey.Key Takeaways

1. Real inclusion in faith communities requires courage, conversation, and empathy — not conformity.
2. Love and shared values can be stronger than cultural or religious barriers when grounded in honesty.
3. The journey to belonging isn’t about labels — it’s about creating space where everyone feels at home.

Timestamps

[00:00] Creating a Vibrant Jewish Community

Peter opens with the idea of building a diverse and welcoming Jewish community.

[01:11] Episode Intro: Orthodox Conversion and Context

Adam introduces the topic and Project Ruth, framing the conversation in a post–October 7th world.

[02:15] Introducing Peter Bregman and His Family Story

Peter shares his Sephardic background, his mother’s Holocaust experience, and his spiritual roots.

[07:47] Meeting Eleanor: Love Across Faiths

Peter describes meeting Eleanor at Princeton and their early conversations about religion.

[12:09] Family Pressure and Cultural Expectations

The moment when Peter discusses family disapproval, his mother’s Holocaust-driven convictions, and the tension it caused.

[18:46] Marriage Despite Resistance

Peter explains how they decided to marry, moved the wedding up, and faced family backlash.

[24:58] Conversion Challenges and Community Pushback

Peter recounts struggles convincing Orthodox rabbis to convert their children and the theological reasoning behind resistance.

[33:45] Practicing Judaism Together

A discussion about raising Jewish children, community response, and finding belonging through schools and Chabad.

[46:41] Eleanor’s Conversion After October 7th

Peter reflects on how the war, identity, and community shaped Eleanor’s decision to convert and his emotional response.

[55:58] Final Reflections on Inclusion and Belonging

Peter closes with gratitude and hope for a more open, supportive Jewish community

Links

• Peter Bregman LinkedIn
• Bregman Partners
• Project Ruth Website
• Rabbi Adam Mintz
• Meredith Berkman’s LinkedIn