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.

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.

• 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.

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.