Shows
The Chai RoadRafi Josselson: Autism and Advocacy - The Chai Road Ep. 14In this episode of 'The Chai Road,' host Max Alperstein is joined by long-time friend Rafi Josselson to discuss Rafi's incredible journey of growing up with autism and becoming an inspirational advocate. They delve into their shared experiences at summer camps, the challenges Rafi faced, and his achievements as a podcaster and public speaker. Rafi shares his perspectives on current events, particularly the impact of October 7th on his life and his aspirations to become a rabbi. The conversation touches on the importance of finding one's place in the Jewish community, overcoming social and personal struggles, and promoting...
2025-09-0836 minThe Chai RoadMisha: Queers Stand With Israel - The Chai Road Ep. 13Join host Max Alperstein on 'The Chai Road' as he welcomes special guest Misha, known on Instagram as Queers Stand with Israel. In this heartfelt and inspiring episode, Misha shares their journey of self-discovery, coming out as queer at a young age, and merging their queer and Jewish identities. They discuss the challenges of facing antisemitism and homophobia both online and in person, while emphasizing the importance of unity and positivity. Misha elaborates on their impactful experiences in Israel, including the profound moments that shaped their activism. This episode is a testament to the strength of young voices in...
2025-08-2123 minThe Chai RoadMichael Valdes: To Keep Your Humanity - The Chai Road Ep. 12In this episode of The Chai Road, host Max Alperstein sits down with Michael Valdes, known as 'Hot Jewish Energy,' to discuss his recent experience in Israel during the 12-day conflict with Iran. Michael shares his harrowing escape through Jordan, the profound sense of community he encountered, and the challenges of navigating identity and safety in a time of crisis. The conversation also delves into the broader context of the conflict, the impact on LGBTQ+ communities, and the shared history and future hopes for Iran and Israel. Join us for an in-depth discussion on resilience...
2025-07-1732 min
The Chai RoadAmy Blumenfeld: Writing from the heart - The Chai Road Ep.11In an episode of 'The Chai Road' podcast, host Max Alperstein converses with Amy Blumenfeld, an acclaimed author and childhood cancer survivor. They delve into Amy’s career from her journalistic roots to becoming an award-winning novelist. Her debut novel, 'The Cast,' combined personal experience with creative storytelling to much acclaim. Her latest work, 'Such Good People,' explores themes of love, loyalty, and justice within the backdrop of a political campaign. Amy discusses her writing influences, challenges, and how her Jewish identity and personal experiences have shaped her work. They also touch on the emotional and moral in...
2025-07-0327 minThe Chai RoadAri Ackerman: The Power of Activism - The Chai Road Ep. 10Join Max Alperstein on 'The Chai Road' as he delves deep into Ari Ackerman's inspiring journey. From his days growing up in a Jewish day school in New York to his impactful career in sports and philanthropy, Ari shares his personal stories, challenges, and the unwavering values that guide his activism. Discover Ari's top tips for entrepreneurial success, his thoughts on combating antisemitism, and his vision for the future of Jewish advocacy.00:00 Introduction to Ari Ackerman00:38 Growing Up in a Jewish Day School02:56 Facing Pushback and Activism in College05:54 Ari's Entrepreneurial...
2025-06-2522 minThe Chai RoadKosha Dillz: Bring the family Home - The Chai Road Ep. 9Join host Max Alperstein on the High Road Podcast as she sits down with the inspirational rapper Kosha Dillz. Dive deep into Kosha Dillz’s journey from his early music career to his impactful presence in the Jewish community, his unique approach to rap, and his efforts in fostering dialogue through music and films. Discover how he mixes cultural identity with music, tackles antisemitism, and navigates his personal and professional identities.Time stamps 00:00 Introduction to Kosha Dillz00:19 Early Music Career and Evolution02:46 Jewish Identity in Mus...
2025-06-1833 minThe Chai RoadLogan Levkoff: Sexy Zionism - The Chai Road Ep. 8Logan Levkoff: Sexy Zionism - The Chai Road Ep. 8In this engaging episode of 'The High Road,' host Max Alperstein sits down with Logan Levkoff, a prominent sex educator and Zionist voice. The conversation takes listeners through Logan's journey from her early years on Long Island, navigating issues of sexuality and identity in a pre-digital age, to her evolution into a champion for difficult conversations. Logan shares personal anecdotes, discusses the complexities surrounding today's political and social climates, and offers thoughtful insights into adolescent challenges. Tune in to hear Logan's pe...
2025-06-0639 minThe Chai RoadShoshana Aufzien: Ground Zero - The Chai Road Ep. 7Welcome to 'The High Road' with Max Alperstein! In today's gripping episode, Max sits down with Shoshana Aufzien, a Columbia University student and vocal advocate for Jewish rights, to discuss the rising tide of antisemitism on university campuses.🌍 Topics Covered:- Shoshana’s personal experiences with antisemitism and activism- The complexities of being a vocal Zionist in a polarized campus environment- The impacts of social media and online harassment- Navigating bureaucratic challenges within educational institutions- Building alliances and fostering understanding among diverse groups...
2025-05-3039 minThe Chai RoadAdela Cojab: Making History - The Chai Road Ep. 6In this episode of the High Road, host Max Alperstein interviews Adela Cojab, a groundbreaking figure in fighting antisemitism and advocating for Jewish rights. Adela shares her journey from Mexico to New Jersey, her experiences at NYU, legal battles, and her current role in combating antisemitism through the law. She also reflects on her upcoming participation in Miss Universe Israel 2025 and the importance of standing up for what's right.Time Stamps: 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction00:32 Adela's Early Life and Family Background02:03 Challenges and Cultural Identity in School05:52 College Experiences a...
2025-05-1439 minThe Chai RoadSarri Singer: Strength to Strive - The Chai Road Ep. 5In this very special episode of The Chai Road, host Max Alperstein sits down with Sarri Singer, a resilient advocate for survivors of terrorism. Singer shares his personal journey from growing up in a politically engaged household in New Jersey to becoming an unwavering supporter of Israel. He discusses narrowly avoiding the Sparros pizza shop bombing in Jerusalem and his harrowing experience surviving the 14 bus bombing, which profoundly shaped her mission to support fellow victims of terrorism. Sarri Singer details the creation of his non-profit, Strength to Strength, aimed at building a global community of survivors, and reflects on...
2025-05-0848 minThe Chai RoadShai Davidai: Where you belong I belong - The Chai Road Ep. 4On this unforgettable episode of The Chai Road, Max Alperstein sits down with Shai Davidai—Columbia University professor, truth-teller, and one of today’s most courageous voices in the fight against antisemitism.Dr. Davidai has captured the attention of millions by saying what others won’t. In this episode, he opens up about what compels him to speak out, the personal cost of activism, and how his Israeli identity shapes his unwavering moral stance.We explore the meaning of Hineni—“Here I am”—not just as a biblical phrase, but as a declaration of presence, responsibility...
2025-04-2448 minThe Chai RoadSami Steigmann: Be your best - The Chai Road Ep. 3In this powerful and deeply moving episode of Chai Road, host Max Alperstein sits down with Sami Steigmann, a Holocaust survivor, motivational speaker, and advocate for resilience. Sami shares his harrowing yet inspiring journey of survival, from his early years in a Nazi labor camp to his lifelong mission of educating others about the dangers of hatred and the power of forgiveness.Max and Sami engage in a thought-provoking discussion on the importance of resilience, the value of hope in the face of adversity, and how personal stories can shape a more compassionate world. Sami’s firsthand ex...
2025-04-1752 minThe Chai RoadJes Escalante: I am A Jew - The Chai Road Ep. 2In this profoundly inspiring Episode 2 of The Chai Road, your host Max Alperstein sits downwith Jes Escalante, a Latin trans convert to Judaism, who is not only navigating theirunique journey of faith and identity but also standing tall as an advocate for peace,honor, and resilience.Jes shares their powerful story of converting to Judaism, embracing both their Latin andtrans identities, and using their voice to challenge hatred while promoting love andunderstanding. In this candid conversation, Jes speaks about the challenges they've
2025-04-0943 minThe Chai RoadShabbos Kestenbaum: Politically Homeless- The Chai Road Ep. 1Description:Welcome to The Chai Road, a podcast that embraces the high road and championswhat’s right, shining a light on the voices that deserve to be heard. In today’s episode,Max Alperstein welcomes Shabbos Kestenbaum, a Harvard graduate, proud Orthodox Jew, and the courageous lead plaintiff in a groundbreaking lawsuit against Harvard University regarding its response to antisemitism on campus.Shabbos has become a key figure in national discussions about antisemitism, freespeech, and Jewish identity, recently sharing his powerful story at the Repu...
2025-04-0247 min
Identity/CrisisTwo Teens and their Fearless InterventionsIn a special crossover this week, Yehuda Kurtzer takes the guest seat for a change, as he is interviewed for the Fearless Interventions podcast by Hartman Teen Fellow, Max Alperstein and his co-host Jacob Finkel. Together they tackle a range of issues at the top of their minds, including navigating political polarization, exploring the boundaries of Jewish identity, and pursuing earnest pluralism. Learn more and apply for the Hartman Teen Fellowship HERE.You can now sponsor an episode of Identity/Crisis. Click HERE to learn more. JOIN OUR...
2024-05-1447 min