Join Rabbi Yoshi Zweiback as he talks with an eclectic variety of thinkers, artists, and change-makers about their experiences (Jewish or otherwise) and their own search for meaning and purpose in their lives.
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Episodes
Search for Meaning with Yuval David
In this powerful and deeply personal episode of Search for Meaning, Rabbi Yoshi sits down with Yuval David, an Emmy Award-winning actor, director, and activist. Yuval is best known for his innovative and acclaimed series One Actor Short, as well as his bold advocacy work across multiple communities. Together, they explore what it means to "come out of the closet" — not once, but twice: first as a gay man, and then, more recently, as a proud Zionist in increasingly complex times. Yuval shares his journey of embracing his authentic self, navigating a world that often demands silence or conformity. He speaks candidly about the challenges and triumphs of living openly, and the new layers of meaning he's discovered in affirming both his sexual identity and his deep connection to Israel. This conversation is a meditation on resilience, self-definition, and how we find meaning when the world around [...]
Search for Meaning with Rabbi David Gedzelman
In this timely episode of Search for Meaning, Rabbi Yoshi Zweiback sits down with Rabbi David Gedzelman, President and CEO of the Steinhardt Foundation for Jewish Life.Together, Rabbi Yoshi and Rabbi Gedzelman explore the powerful intersections of Jewish identity, education, culture, and the critical role that visionary leadership plays in shaping the future of Jewish communities both in the United States and globally. They also discuss the World Zionist Organization (WZO) elections, a once-every-five-years opportunity for American Jews to have a direct voice in the future of Israel and global Jewish priorities.Time is of the essence: Voting in the WZO elections closes on May 4th, and your vote matters more than ever. Rabbi Yoshi is running on the Reform Movement slate, advocating for a vision of Israel that is pluralistic, democratic, and inclusive.Make your voice heard — Vote now at VoteForReform.org!
Search for Meaning with Adam Mansbach
Episode Title: Adam Mansbach – The Golem of Brooklyn In this episode of Search for Meaning, Rabbi Yoshi Zweiback welcomes Adam Mansbach, best-selling author and cultural provocateur, for a conversation about his latest novel, The Golem of Brooklyn — a darkly comic and fiercely relevant tale that reimagines the legendary Golem in the heart of contemporary America. Known for his sharp wit and literary range, Mansbach delves into the origin of the book, the role of folklore in shaping identity, and how humor can be both a shield and a sword in the face of rising antisemitism. Together, he and Rabbi Yoshi explore the intersections of memory, justice, grief, and myth, while reflecting on how stories help us navigate the complexities of modern Jewish life. The Golem of Brooklyn is more than a novel — it's a bold statement about who we are, what we fear, and how we fight back. [...]
Search for Meaning with Cantor Emma Lutz and Dr. Tali Tadmor
🎙️ Search for Meaning with Rabbi Yoshi: “Wow! Shehecheyanu” – A Joyful Musical Celebration In this special episode, Rabbi Yoshi sits down with Cantor Emma Lutz and Dr. Tali Tadmor to explore the heart and harmony behind their brand-new children’s album, Wow! Shehecheyanu. Produced by Pam Autuori and featuring the incredible Stephen Wise Temple Band, the album is a vibrant, soulful tribute created in honor of the grand opening of the Aaron Milken Center. With joyful voices from Wise School students and original music that celebrates gratitude, wonder, and Jewish tradition, Wow! Shehecheyanu is a spirited soundtrack for the next generation. Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at the creative process, the inspiration behind the songs, and the meaningful role music plays in shaping Jewish identity from an early age. 🎶 Wow! Shehecheyanu is available now on all streaming platforms. 🔗 Learn more about music at Stephen Wise Temple: wisela.org/music