In this episode of The Rest is Commentary, Avram Mandell—founder of Tzedek America—joins host Shep Rosenman for a deeply personal and thought-provoking conversation about empathy, community, and the healing power of story and song. Through memories of New York City playgrounds, transformative civil rights journeys, and meaningful encounters across borders and on Skid Row, Avram reflects on how human connection can turn personal pain into strength and shared understanding.
Inspired by the song “Waiting” (drawn from Psalm 89) by Liz Hanellin and Shep Rosenman, this episode invites listeners to explore how storytelling and music can bridge divides, challenge indifference, and ignite action. Together, they dive into immersive social justice programs, discuss the fight against hate in schools, and consider what it truly means to move from bystander to upstander in pursuit of a more compassionate world.
