Episodes

This episode of Jewish Voices, American Stories shares the stories of three American rabbis who helped shape a more inclusive, compassionate, and courageous nation through their convictions and actions. We begin with Rabbi Jacob Frankel, whose appointment as the first Jewish chaplain in the U.S. Army marked a turning point in American history. At a time when Jewish soldiers were excluded from spiritual leadership, Frankel’s service ensured that faith would not be a barrier—but a source of comfo...

This episode of Jewish Voices, American Stories explores how Jewish-American scientists and doctors helped change the course of history—bringing healing, hope, and life to millions. We begin with Jonas Salk and Albert Sabin, two brilliant scientists whose breakthroughs in the fight against polio transformed one of America’s greatest fears into one of its greatest public health victories. At a time when families lived in dread of the disease, their vaccines brought relief, protection, and a futu...

This episode of Jewish Voices, American Stories looks at God’s gift of laughter—and how Jewish comedians have helped bring joy, resilience, and connection to American life. We begin with the Marx Brothers, a family of immigrant performers whose quick wit, physical comedy, and unforgettable characters helped define American humor. In times of hardship and uncertainty, their laughter offered something more than entertainment—it offered relief, creativity, and even healing. Next, we meet Gene Wil...

This episode of Jewish Voices, American Stories reflects on moments of tragedy that have shaped both the Jewish experience and the American story—reminding us why memory, compassion, and courage matter. We begin with the Titanic, where amid one of history’s most famous disasters, a remarkable love story unfolded. Isidor and Ida Straus—partners in life for more than forty years—chose to remain together as the ship sank, leaving behind a legacy of devotion that echoes the enduring words: “Many wa...

This episode of Jewish Voices, American Stories takes us back to the earliest chapters of American history—long before Ellis Island—when Jewish life was already taking root in a new and uncertain nation. We begin at Touro Synagogue—the oldest synagogue in the United States. Built by a small community seeking religious freedom, it stands as a lasting symbol of a promise that would define America: that people of all faiths could worship freely and live without fear. That promise was powerfully af...

In this episode of Jewish Voices, American Stories, we’ll explore the powerful role Jewish musicians have played in shaping the soundtrack of America. From the concert hall to Broadway to the radio, music has always helped tell the story of our nation—and Jewish voices have played a part in that story in profound and lasting ways. We begin with Itzhak Perlman, a world-renowned violinist whose journey from Tel Aviv to American stages captivated millions. Despite physical challenges from childhoo...

In this episode of Jewish Voices, American Stories, we’ll explore the Jewish writers whose words helped shape not just literature—but the moral and spiritual conscience of America. We begin with Elie Wiesel, a Holocaust survivor whose powerful testimony in Night brought the reality of unimaginable suffering into classrooms and hearts across the country. Through his writing, Wiesel bore witness to both the horrors he endured and the enduring themes of faith, justice, and human dignity. Next, we...

Welcome to a new podcast season, Jewish Voices, American Stories. In this episode, we’ll explore pivotal moments when American presidents helped shape a nation where the Jewish people could belong—and thrive. We begin at the founding of the United States, when George Washington answered a profound question for a small but faithful community: Would this new nation make room for the Jewish people? Through a historic letter to a Jewish congregation, Washington offered more than tolerance—he affirm...