Episodes

  • Gaza War Veteran on Becoming a Modern Maccabee | EP 31 Sam Fried
    Mar 6 2025

    Consider DONATING to help us continue and expand our media efforts. If you cannot at this time, please share this video with someone who might benefit from it. We thank you for your support! https://tinyurl.com/HereIAmWithShaiDavidai --------- Guest: Sam Fried Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/samfried26/ Welcome to the 31st episode of "Here I Am with Shai Davidai," a podcast that delves into the rising tide of antisemitism through insightful discussions with top Jewish advocates. In this compelling episode, host Shai Davidai welcomes Sam Fried, a passionate advocate and former IDF soldier, to discuss identity, resilience, and the ongoing fight for Jewish civil rights. Key Highlights: Identity and Resilience: Sam shares his journey as a "fighting Jew," emphasizing the importance of standing up for one's identity and heritage. He recounts personal experiences of anti-Semitism and how they shaped his resolve to fight for the Jewish people. Military Service: Sam discusses his decision to join the IDF, inspired by his grandfather's legacy and a desire to contribute to something greater than himself. He reflects on the challenges and camaraderie of serving in the IDF during pivotal moments. October 7th and Beyond: Sam recounts the harrowing events of October 7th, the impact on his community, and his immediate decision to return to Israel to defend his people. He highlights the importance of taking action and not remaining passive in the face of adversity. Ideological Battlefield: After returning to the U.S., Sam continues his fight on the ideological front, addressing misconceptions about Israel and advocating for truth and understanding on college campuses. Call to Action: Sam urges listeners to find their own fight, whether through activism, education, or supporting the Jewish community, emphasizing that everyone can contribute to the collective effort. Closing Thoughts: Shai and Sam conclude with a powerful message about leadership and the importance of individual contributions to the Jewish cause. Sam's story is a testament to the strength and resilience of everyday heroes. Join us as we shed light on these critical conversations and work towards a future free from hate. 🔔 Subscribe now and never miss an episode 📢 Follow us on social media: Instagram: hereiamwithshaidavidai https://www.instagram.com/hereiamwithshaidavidai?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== Tik Tok: hereiamwithshaidavidai https://www.tiktok.com/@hereiamwithshaidavidai 🎧 Listen to the full episode on your favorite podcast platform: RSS: https://rss.com/podcasts/hereiamwithshaidavidai Apple Podcasts: https://rss.com/podcasts/hereiamwithshaidavidai/ Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/shai-davidai Credits: Producers: Shai Davidai, Abbie Sophia, Adamit Productions Filmed @ The CAVE Soundstage in Hackensack and edited by Adamit Productions Graphic by Shira Auman For sponsorship opportunities, please email achi@adamitproductions.com

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    1 hr and 14 mins
  • "You can get to a lot of Jewish people I can't" | EP 30 Rabbi Mark Wildes
    Feb 27 2025

    Consider DONATING to help us continue and expand our media efforts. If you cannot at this time, please share this video with someone who might benefit from it. We thank you for your support! https://tinyurl.com/HereIAmWithShaiDavidai --------- Guest: Rabbi Mark Wildes Youtube: @MarkWildesMJE Welcome to the 30th episode of "Here I Am with Shai Davidai," a podcast that delves into the rising tide of antisemitism through insightful discussions with top Jewish advocates. In this episode, host Shai Davidai sits down with Rabbi Mark Wildes, founder of the Manhattan Jewish Experience (MJE). The conversation delves into Rabbi Wildes' passion for Judaism, his commitment to connecting with Jews and non-Jews alike, and the influence of his father, an immigration lawyer who inspired his dedication to community and tradition. Rabbi Wildes shares insights into the mission of MJE, which aims to offer young Jewish adults a second chance to connect with their heritage in a meaningful way. He emphasizes the importance of community, tradition, and Jewish values such as kindness and self-growth. The discussion also touches on the challenges of balancing tradition with modernity, the role of Israel in Jewish identity, and the significance of activism in Jewish life. Rabbi Wildes highlights the need for a welcoming and inclusive community, where diverse perspectives are embraced. Throughout the episode, Rabbi Wildes and Shai explore themes of identity, belonging, and the enduring power of Judaism to inspire and connect people across generations. Join us as we shed light on these critical conversations and work towards a future free from hate. 🔔 Subscribe now and never miss an episode 📢 Follow us on social media: Instagram: hereiamwithshaidavidai https://www.instagram.com/hereiamwithshaidavidai?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== Tik Tok: hereiamwithshaidavidai https://www.tiktok.com/@hereiamwithshaidavidai 🎧 Listen to the full episode on your favorite podcast platform: RSS: https://rss.com/podcasts/hereiamwithshaidavidai Apple Podcasts: https://rss.com/podcasts/hereiamwithshaidavidai/ Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/shai-davidai #HereIAmPodcast #ShaiDavidai #RabbiMarkWildes #ManhattanJewishExperience #JewishCommunity #JewishValues #Judaism #JewishTradition #JewishIdentity #JewishHeritage #JewishActivism #Israel #Zionism #CommunityBuilding #SpiritualGrowth #JewishLearning #JewishPhilosophy #Inspiration #JewishConnection #JewishPodcast #JewishLife #JewishWisdom #JewishCulture #JewishUnity Credits: Producers: Shai Davidai, Abbie Sophia, Adamit Productions Filmed @ The CAVE Soundstage in Hackensack and edited by Adamit Productions Graphic by Shira Auman For sponsorship opportunities, please email achi@adamitproductions.com

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    1 hr and 9 mins
  • A Broadway Star's Perspective on Being Jewish | EP 29 Ari Axelrod
    Feb 20 2025

    Consider DONATING to help us continue and expand our media efforts. If you cannot at this time, please share this video with someone who might benefit from it. We thank you for your support! https://tinyurl.com/HereIAmWithShaiDavidai --------- Guest: Ari Axelrod Youtube: @ari-axelrod IG: @ariaxelrod https://www.instagram.com/ariaxelrod/?hl=en Welcome to the 29th episode of "Here I Am with Shai Davidai," a podcast that delves into the rising tide of antisemitism through insightful discussions with top Jewish advocates. Introduction & Background: Shai Davidai introduces Ari Axelrod, a multi-award-winning actor and activist. Ari shares his journey of embracing his Jewish identity and activism. Jewish Identity & Activism: Ari discusses living his life to honor his ancestors and using his voice for those who couldn't speak freely. He reflects on his upbringing in a Zionist family and the challenges he faced in college regarding his Jewish identity. Transformative Experiences: Ari recounts his transformative Birthright trip to Israel, which deepened his connection to his Jewish roots. He emphasizes the importance of living proudly as a Jew and using his voice to advocate for his community. Broadway & Jewish Influence: Ari talks about the Jewish influence on Broadway and his show "A Place for Us: A Celebration of Jewish Broadway." He highlights the contributions of Jewish artists to the theater world and the importance of Jewish vitality over resilience. Challenges & Resilience: The conversation touches on the challenges faced by Jews in the theater community and the broader societal context. Ari shares his perspective on anti-Zionism and the importance of standing up for Jewish rights. Personal Reflections: Ari opens up about his life-saving brain surgery and how it shaped his outlook on life. He discusses the significance of Jewish vitality and living life to the fullest. C🔔 Subscribe now and never miss an episode 📢 Follow us on social media: Instagram: hereiamwithshaidavidai https://www.instagram.com/hereiamwithshaidavidai?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== Tik Tok: hereiamwithshaidavidai https://www.tiktok.com/@hereiamwithshaidavidai 🎧 Listen to the full episode on your favorite podcast platform: RSS: https://rss.com/podcasts/hereiamwithshaidavidai Apple Podcasts: https://rss.com/podcasts/hereiamwithshaidavidai/ Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/shai-davidai Credits: Producers: Shai Davidai, Abbie Sophia, Adamit Productions Filmed @ The CAVE Soundstage in Hackensack and edited by Adamit Productions Graphic by Shira Auman For sponsorship opportunities, please email achi@adamitproductions.com

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    1 hr and 26 mins
  • #Black, #Jewish, #Trans: A surprising perspective | EP 28 Bellamy Bellucci
    Feb 14 2025

    Consider DONATING to help us continue and expand our media efforts. If you cannot at this time, please share this video with someone who might benefit from it. We thank you for your support! https://tinyurl.com/HereIAmWithShaiDavidai --------- Guest: Bellamy Bellucci Youtube: @Bellamybellucci IG: bellamybellucci / https://www.instagram.com/bellamybellucci/ Welcome to the 28th episode of "Here I Am with Shai Davidai," a podcast that delves into the rising tide of antisemitism through insightful discussions with top Jewish advocates. In this enlightening episode of "Here I AM with Shai Davidai," we sit down with Bellamy Ballucci, a remarkable South African American trans Jewish woman. Bellamy shares her powerful journey of embracing her multifaceted identity and the challenges and triumphs she has faced along the way. Key Highlights: Journey to Judaism: Bellamy discusses her spiritual journey, from questioning her Methodist upbringing to finding a sense of belonging and purpose in Judaism. She shares the profound impact of her conversion and the sense of community she discovered. Navigating Identity: The conversation explores Bellamy's experiences growing up in post-apartheid South Africa, her career in ballet, and her transition. She candidly talks about the complexities of being a trans woman and a Jew in today's world. Activism and Advocacy: Bellamy speaks passionately about her activism against anti-Semitism and transphobia, emphasizing the importance of standing up for one's beliefs and the power of using one's voice for change. Cultural Reflections: The episode delves into Bellamy's reflections on race, identity, and the intersectionality of her experiences, offering a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities of living authentically. Join us as we shed light on these critical conversations and work towards a future free from hate. 🔔 Subscribe now and never miss an episode 📢 Follow us on social media: Instagram: hereiamwithshaidavidai https://www.instagram.com/hereiamwithshaidavidai?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== Tik Tok: hereiamwithshaidavidai https://www.tiktok.com/@hereiamwithshaidavidai 🎧 Listen to the full episode on your favorite podcast platform: RSS: https://rss.com/podcasts/hereiamwithshaidavidai Apple Podcasts: https://rss.com/podcasts/hereiamwithshaidavidai/ Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/shai-davidai Credits: Producers: Shai Davidai, Abbie Sophia, Adamit Productions Filmed @ The CAVE Soundstage in Hackensack and edited by Adamit Productions Graphic by Shira Auman For sponsorship opportunities, please email achi@adamitproductions.com

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    1 hr and 10 mins
  • The Story behind 'I'm That Jew' | EP 27 Eitan Chitayat
    Feb 6 2025

    Consider DONATING to help us continue and expand our media efforts. If you cannot at this time, please share this video with someone who might benefit from it. We thank you for your support! https://tinyurl.com/HereIAmWithShaiDavidai --------- Guest: Eitan Chitayat Youtube: @EitanChitayat_Words X: @eitanchitayat https://x.com/EitanChitayat?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor IG: eitanchitayat_words - https://www.instagram.com/eitanchitayat_words/?hl=en Welcome to the 27th episode of "Here I Am with Shai Davidai," a podcast that delves into the rising tide of antisemitism through insightful discussions with top Jewish advocates. In this episode of "Here I Am with Shai Davidai," Shai sits down with Eitan Chitayat, founder of the branding agency "I'm That Jew." Eitan shares his journey of branding the Jewish identity and discusses the importance of being openly Jewish in today's world. The conversation delves into Eitan's viral video "I'm That Jew," which was initially a personal letter to a friend but evolved into a powerful message for the Jewish community. Eitan and Shai explore themes of identity, advocacy, and the challenges faced by Jewish people globally. They also touch on the rise of antisemitism and the need for solidarity and vocal support from allies. Eitan's insights provide a compelling narrative on embracing one's identity and standing up against hate. Join us as we shed light on these critical conversations and work towards a future free from hate. 🔔 Subscribe now and never miss an episode 📢 Follow us on social media: Instagram: hereiamwithshaidavidai https://www.instagram.com/hereiamwithshaidavidai?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== Tik Tok: hereiamwithshaidavidai https://www.tiktok.com/@hereiamwithshaidavidai 🎧 Listen to the full episode on your favorite podcast platform: RSS: https://rss.com/podcasts/hereiamwithshaidavidai Apple Podcasts: https://rss.com/podcasts/hereiamwithshaidavidai/ Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/shai-davidai #HereIAmPodcast #ShaiDavidai #EitanChitayat #ImThatJew #JewishIdentity #Branding #JewishPride #Advocacy #Antisemitism #JewishCommunity #ViralVideo #JewishSolidarity #OpenlyJewish #JewishVoices #JewishActivism #IdentityAndAdvocacy #StandAgainstHate #JewishDiaspora #JewishSupport #CulturalIdentity Credits: Producers: Shai Davidai, Abbie Sophia, Adamit Productions Filmed @ The CAVE Soundstage in Hackensack and edited by Adamit Productions Graphic by Shira Auman For sponsorship opportunities, please email achi@adamitproductions.com

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    1 hr and 24 mins
  • The Most Hated Man at the #UN | EP 26 Hillel Neuer
    Jan 30 2025

    Consider DONATING to help us continue and expand our media efforts. If you cannot at this time, please share this video with someone who might benefit from it. We thank you for your support! https://tinyurl.com/HereIAmWithShaiDavidai --------- Guest: Hillel Neuer Youtube: @unwatch X: @HillelNeuer Welcome to the 26th episode of "Here I Am with Shai Davidai," a podcast that delves into the rising tide of antisemitism through insightful discussions with top Jewish advocates. In this episode of "Here I Am with Shai Davidai," host Shai engages in a compelling conversation with Hillel Neuer, the executive director of UN Watch. The discussion delves into the pervasive issue of modern anti-Semitism, particularly focusing on the role of organizations like Amnesty International and the United Nations in perpetuating biased narratives against Israel. Hillel shares his personal journey, growing up in a committed Jewish family in Montreal, and how his experiences shaped his dedication to fighting for Jewish civil rights on the global stage. The conversation highlights the challenges faced by Israel at the UN, where it is frequently condemned more than any other nation, and explores the historical and political dynamics that contribute to this bias. Hillel also discusses the importance of holding the UN accountable to its founding principles and the need for democracies to step up in defending human rights globally. Throughout the episode, Hillel shares anecdotes from his career, including his experiences speaking at the UN and the resistance he faces from various regimes. The episode concludes with a reflection on the importance of truth and the role of organizations like UN Watch in advocating for justice and human rights. Join us as we shed light on these critical conversations and work towards a future free from hate. 🔔 Subscribe now and never miss an episode 📢 Follow us on social media: Instagram: hereiamwithshaidavidai https://www.instagram.com/hereiamwithshaidavidai?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== Tik Tok: hereiamwithshaidavidai https://www.tiktok.com/@hereiamwithshaidavidai 🎧 Listen to the full episode on your favorite podcast platform: RSS: https://rss.com/podcasts/hereiamwithshaidavidai Apple Podcasts: https://rss.com/podcasts/hereiamwithshaidavidai/ Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/shai-davidai #HereIAmPodcast #ShaiDavidai #HillelNeuer #UNWatch #AntiSemitism #HumanRights #Israel #UnitedNations #AmnestyInternational #JewishRights #GlobalPolitics #CivilRights #JewishCommunity #UNBias #TruthAndJustice #ModernAntiSemitism #HumanRightsAdvocate #JewishHistory #InternationalRelations #PodcastInterview #antisemitism Credits: Producers: Shai Davidai, Abbie Sophia, Adamit Productions Filmed @ The CAVE Soundstage in Hackensack and edited by Adamit Productions Graphic by Shira Auman For sponsorship opportunities, please email achi@adamitproductions.com

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    1 hr and 25 mins
  • Netflix Star on an Unorthodox Mission to fight Jew Hatred | EP 25 Julia Haart
    Jan 24 2025

    Consider DONATING to help us continue and expand our media efforts. If you cannot at this time, please share this video with someone who might benefit from it. We thank you for your support! https://tinyurl.com/HereIAmWithShaiDavidai --------- Guest: Julia Haart: https://www.instagram.com/juliahaart/ Welcome to the 25st episode of "Here I Am with Shai Davidai," a podcast that delves into the rising tide of antisemitism through insightful discussions with top Jewish advocates. In the podcast episode "Here I Am with Shai Davidai," host Shai Davidai interviews Julia Haart, a business leader, activist, social media influencer, and star of the Netflix show "My Unorthodox Life." The conversation delves into Julia's journey from growing up in an ultra-Orthodox Jewish community to becoming a prominent figure advocating for women's rights and Jewish civil rights. Julia shares her experiences of living in a restrictive environment where women were expected to be silent and subservient. She discusses her transformation after leaving that community, her rise in the fashion industry, and her activism for women's financial independence. Julia also talks about her involvement in humanitarian efforts, such as helping refugees in Ukraine and advocating for women's rights globally. The episode touches on Julia's strong connection to Israel, her views on Judaism as an ethnicity rather than a religion, and her efforts to combat antisemitism. She emphasizes the importance of unity and support within the Jewish community and beyond, advocating for a future where love and kindness prevail over division and hatred. Join us as we shed light on these critical conversations and work towards a future free from hate. 🔔 Subscribe now and never miss an episode 📢 Follow us on social media: Instagram: hereiamwithshaidavidai https://www.instagram.com/hereiamwithshaidavidai?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== Tik Tok: hereiamwithshaidavidai https://www.tiktok.com/@hereiamwithshaidavidai 🎧 Listen to the full episode on your favorite podcast platform: RSS: https://rss.com/podcasts/hereiamwithshaidavidai Apple Podcasts: https://rss.com/podcasts/hereiamwithshaidavidai/ Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/shai-davidai #HereIAmPodcast #ShaiDavidai #JuliaHaart #MyUnorthodoxLife #JewishPride #WomensRights #Activism #SocialMediaInfluencer #UltraOrthodoxJudaism #Freedom #JewishCommunity #Israel #Antisemitism #HumanRights #FinancialIndependence #FashionIndustry #UkraineSupport #HumanitarianEfforts #JewishCivilRights #Unity #LoveAndKindness #JewishIdentity #Empowerment #JewishWomen #CulturalHeritage #JewishActivism #SocialChange #CommunitySupport #JewishEthnicity #JewishHistory #netflix #myunorthodoxlife Credits: Producers: Shai Davidai, Abbie Sophia, Adamit Productions Filmed @ The CAVE Soundstage in Hackensack and edited by Adamit Productions Graphic by Shira Auman For sponsorship opportunities, please email achi@adamitproductions.com

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    1 hr and 20 mins
  • From Orthodox Roots to the #Gays of #Zion | EP 24 Roniel Tessler
    Jan 10 2025

    Consider DONATING to help us continue and expand our media efforts. If you cannot at this time, please share this video with someone who might benefit from it. We thank you for your support! https://tinyurl.com/HereIAmWithShaiDavidai --------- Guest: Mazi Pilip: https://www.instagram.com/maziourlegislator?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

    Welcome to the 24st episode of "Here I Am with Shai Davidai," a podcast that delves into the rising tide of antisemitism through insightful discussions with top Jewish advocates. In this episode of "Here I Am with Shai Davidai," host Shai Davidai engages in a heartfelt and insightful conversation with guest Roniel Tessler, a screenwriter, Jewish educator, and founder of a gay Jewish Zionist group in New York City. The episode delves into Roniel's personal journey, exploring his experiences as a gay Jewish man navigating identity, community, and activism. Roniel shares his story of growing up in an Orthodox Jewish family, his coming out journey, and the challenges and triumphs he faced in reconciling his Jewish and gay identities. The discussion touches on the importance of community support, the power of activism, and the role of education in fostering understanding and acceptance. The conversation also explores broader themes such as the impact of recent events on Jewish and LGBTQ+ communities, the significance of Theodor Herzl's vision for a Jewish state, and the challenges of confronting anti-Semitism and homophobia. Roniel emphasizes the need for solidarity and action, highlighting his efforts to create spaces for queer Jews to connect and support one another.

    Join us as we shed light on these critical conversations and work towards a future free from hate. 🔔 Subscribe now and never miss an episode 📢 Follow us on social media: Instagram: hereiamwithshaidavidai https://www.instagram.com/hereiamwithshaidavidai?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== Tik Tok: hereiamwithshaidavidai https://www.tiktok.com/@hereiamwithshaidavidai 🎧 Listen to the full episode on your favorite podcast platform: RSS: https://rss.com/podcasts/hereiamwithshaidavidai Apple Podcasts: https://rss.com/podcasts/hereiamwithshaidavidai/ Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/shai-davidai

    Credits: Producers: Shai Davidai, Abbie Sophia, Adamit Productions Filmed @ The CAVE Soundstage in Hackensack and edited by Adamit Productions Graphic by Shira Auman For sponsorship opportunities, please email achi@adamitproductions.com

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    1 hr and 5 mins