Jay's 4 Questions: Recent Episodes
The Jewish Federation of Greater Los Angeles
Produced by The Jewish Federation of Greater Los Angeles, Jay’s 4 Questions brings together the most interesting and influential thought leaders to discuss community, culture, food, and more. When President & CEO Jay Sanderson asks the tough questions — whether the answers are provocative, inspiring, or simply entertaining, you’ll want to hear every word. For more information, follow us on Facebook or Instagram, or visit www.JewishLA.org.
World-renowned Israeli chef and spice master Lior Lev Sercarz joins Jay’s 4 Questions for a riveting discussion on the important role chefs play in bridging societal gaps and how cooking with the right combination of spices can enhance your life.
New York Times bestselling author of Maybe You Should Talk to Someone, psychotherapist, nationally recognized journalist, and weekly columnist for The Atlantic Lori Gottlieb joins Jay’s 4 Questions for a fascinating discussion on the challenge to stay connected to each other and the Jewish community in our increasingly fast-paced technological world. Jay and Lori examine modern use of devices as an escape tool and the resulting isolation and damage to our health. They explore solutions to these ever-growing problems, which include listening more intently to those we care about and making time to be present with them.
Multi-talented actress, singer, writer, and comedian Rachel Bloom joins Jay’s 4 Questions to discuss her Jewish upbringing, her blossoming career, and why Jay considers Rachel the “modern-day queen of Yiddish theater.” The conversation highlights Rachel’s early influences including Mel Brooks, her rise from YouTube viral start to Golden Globe award-winning actress, the power in vulnerability when dealing with mental health issues, and preparing to raise a Jewish child.
Rabbanit Alissa Thomas-Newborn talks about her journey from being the daughter of a Reform rabbi and student at Brentwood school to a leader in the modern Orthodox community, the role she plays as a rabbanit, and the legacy of women leaders throughout history.
Award-winning journalist and TV producer Avi Issacharoff of Haaretz, The Times of Israel, and the hit Netflix show Fauda, joins Jay’s 4 Questions podcast
For the 80th episode, the script is flipped! Our podcast host and Federation President & CEO Jay Sanderson sits down with Rob Eshman to share his thoughts on community, spirituality, religion, and food.
Nirvana manager and entertainment professional Danny Goldberg talks about religion, spirituality, his new book Serving the Servant, and more on this week’s Jay’s 4 Questions podcast.
Award-winning journalist and former CNN Chief White House Correspondent Jessica Yellin talks about her experiences covering Presidents and world leaders, the state of journalism today, and her “newsnotnoise” Instagram campaign.
Chef and baker extraordinaire Zoe Nathan of Huckleberry and Milo + Olive joins Jay’s 4 Questions to talk about food, community, and spirituality.
Creator of Jewish Insider Max Neuberger talks about his daily newsletter that covers U.S. politics, business news, and philanthropy from a Jewish angle.
“America’s Rabbi” Shmuley Boteach seems to always be in the headlines — whether because of his relationships with Roseanne Barr, Oprah, and Corey Booker, or his past with Michael Jackson. Rabbi Shmuley has helped redefine the role of the rabbi in today’s media-driven world.
Learn about the matzah ball soup that won her a spot on Bravo’s Top Chef Season 16 in Macau, China with Chef Sara Bradley. She joins Jay’s 4 Questions to talk about growing up in the very small town of Paducah KY, the connection between Paducah and Manischewitz’s gefilte fish, and the secret for the perfect Southern matzah brei.
Learn secrets to the perfect matzah brei and a plan for peace in the Middle East from actress Tovah Feldshuh on this week’s Jay’s 4 Questions. This amazing Jewish Broadway, TV, and silver screen star also talks about the extraordinary characters she has brought to life throughout her career.
David Harris, CEO of the American Jewish Committee, joins Jay’s 4 Questions podcast to talk about the extraordinary changes from 1990 to present day in the Jewish world, his passion for Jewish activism, and what has inspired his life and life’s journey.
This week’s guest is America’s Heart-Healthy Doctor and Holistic Cardiologist, Dr. Joel Kahn. The conversation spans preventive cardiology and the importance of plant-based, clean, healthy eating.
Chef, restaurateur, and deli impresario Micah Wexler joins Jay’s 4 Questions podcast to discuss deli culture, the difference between pastrami and corned beef, and his mother’s chicken soup. The conversation highlights his childhood memories growing up in a deep, rich Jewish home and the role mentorship has played throughout his personal and professional career.
Rabbi Rick Jacobs, President of the Union for Reform Judaism, joins Jay’s 4 Questions, to discuss how the Jewish community must and will transform itself in order to engage the next generation of young Jews. He discusses the vibrancy of the community, his passion for his work, and the need to focus on Jewish content.
This week’s guest is the legendary Dr. Steve Nasatir, President of The Jewish United Fund/Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Chicago. This episode takes a stroll through history as the conversation highlights how Dr. Nasatir has been a part of some of the most important and memorable moments in Jewish History — from the Six Day War to Operation Exodus to Operation Moses.
This week’s episode highlights Amanda Berman, Executive Director and Co-Founder of Zioness, in a conversation that spans her political activism and love of Israel.
This week on Jay’s 4 Questions, former NASA Astronaut and first Jewish crew member at the International Space Station Garrett Reisman joins us for an out-of-this-world episode!
The Accidental Talmudist joins Jay’s 4 Questions to discuss all things spiritual, Talmudic, and community.
This week’s Jay’s 4 Questions guest is Phil Rosenthal, Somebody Feed Phil host. Hot topics: comedy and food, two of the Jewish people’s greatest gifts to mankind.
This week’s podcast guest is Tali Levanon, Co-Founder and Executive Director of the Israel Trauma Coalition (ITC). She discusses her trauma and resiliency work in Israel, Pittsburgh, Los Angeles, and around the world and how people deal differently with traumas from natural and man-made disasters.
Rabbi Yoshi Zweiback, Senior Rabbi of Stephen Wise Temple and Wise School, joins Jay’s 4 Questions to discuss the importance of community, Jewish education, and Jewish summer camp.
David Broza, extraordinary musical performer, singer, and songwriter, joins Jay’s 4 Questions podcast for the second time to discuss Israel, music, conflict resolution, coexistence, and One Million Guitars — a program that provides stipends for guitar lessons and uniquely designed guitars for underprivileged kids around the world.
This week, Jay Sanderson hosts media personality, author, innovator, and rabbi Irwin Kula, the co-president of Clal — the National Jewish Center for Learning and Leadership.
Roni Saslove, the new face of Israeli wine, joins Jay Sanderson on this week’s episode of Jay’s 4 Questions to discuss mindful wine tasting, how wine triggers memories, and more!
Rabbi Amy Bernstein, Senior Rabbi of Kehillat Israel in Pacific Palisades and the incoming Chair of the Southern California Board of Rabbis, joins Jay’s 4 Questions podcast to discuss her journey from Atlanta to Duluth to Southern California, why synagogues need to be more nimble, and how to access our spiritual best selves.
Founder & CEO of Unplug Meditation Suze Yalof Schwartz teaches Jay how to disconnect and unwind in this episode. She also shares mind-clearing and energy-raising techniques.
This week’s guest is Isaac “Bougie” Herzog, the Chairman of the Executive of the Jewish Agency and descendant of Israeli royalty.
This week’s guest is Gene Block, Chancellor of UCLA, ranked No. 13 “Best Global University” by U.S. News & World Report. Block talks science, research, and chancellor life.
TV personality, chef, and world explorer Andrew Zimmern joins Jay’s 4 Questions to talk about travel, spirituality, and the culinary scenes of L.A., Israel, and Minnesota.
Gidi Grinstein, the founder of Reut Group and one of the Jewish world’s great thinkers and authors, joins Jay Sanderson to discuss the intersection between “Israeliness” and Jewishness — and how the world’s biggest problems are always opportunities.
Shelley Zalis, the innovative powerhouse behind The Female Quotient and Girls’ Lounge, joins Jay’s 4 Questions to discuss bringing emotion to the boardroom and giving back.
This week, Jay speaks with Oscar®-nominated, Emmy®-winning, Peabody-winning documentary filmmaker Amy Ziering about her life, experiences, and films — The Invisible War, The Hunting Ground, and The Bleeding Edge.
James Beard Award-Winning Best Chef Michael Solomonov joins Jay’s 4 Questions podcast to discuss his restaurants Zahav, Dizengoff, and Federal Donuts, his new cookbook Israeli Soul, tattoos and tefillin, and the intersection between Judaism and food.
Anat Hoffman, outspoken and dynamic Israeli activist, joins Jay’s 4 Questions to talk about her passion for justice, why she fights for an Israel for all Jews, and her lifelong pursuit to make the best possible Kosher eggs benedict.
This week’s guest is the incredibly talented producer/director Ben Winston from The Late Late Show with James Corden and Fulwell 73 Productions. Ben joins Jay’s 4 Questions to talk about his success in Hollywood, his deep Jewish roots, and Carpool Karaoke.
Richard Sandler, Chair of the Board of The Jewish Federations of North America, joins Jay Sanderson on Jay’s 4 Questions podcast to discuss the intersection between his family life, professional life, and life as a lay leader and philanthropist. He also shares the challenges and opportunities he has seen facing the Jewish community over the past years.
Rabbi Melissa Weintraub, Co-Executive Director of Resetting the Table, joins Jays 4 Questions to discuss the blurred lines between religion and politics, the power and consequences of our voices, and the importance of dialogue.
Comedian, writer, actor, and producer Elon Gold joins Jay’s 4 Questions to discuss his passion for comedy, his Judaism and the role it has played in his life and career, and his commitment to the community.
This week on Jay’s 4 Questions, host Jay Sanderson has a deep conversation with Rabbi Elazar Muskin, Senior Rabbi of Young Israel of Century City and the President of the Rabbinical Council of America. They talk about the power of inspiration and the importance of a 15-minute sermon.
On Jay’s 4 Questions, Dr. Beth Karlan, one of the leading gynecologic oncologists in America at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, talks about cancer, her research and work, the BFOR breast cancer gene mutation study, and the power of healing.
This week’s guest on Jay’s 4 Questions is comedian and writer Carol Leifer. From Catch a Rising Star to The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson and Jay Leno, to Seinfeld and to next season’s Curb Your Enthusiasm, Carol speaks with Jay about her professional experiences, her childhood and upbringing, and her deep commitment to her Jewishness and to The Jewish Federation.
Pulitzer Prize-Winning Columnist Bret Stephens joins Jay for a thoughtful conversation about his journey from The Wall Street Journal to The Jerusalem Post, back to The Wall Street Journal, and finally to The New York Times today. They talk about his Jewish identity and his commitment to Israel, which began in Mexico City and has taken him around the world.
This week on the podcast, Federation President & CEO Jay Sanderson talks to Eric Goldstein, CEO of UJA-Federation NYC, the Los Angeles Federation’s East Coast cousin. They speak about the role of the Federation today, the difficulties they face during challenging times, and what we need to do to bring our Jewish communities together.
This week on Jay’s 4 Questions, host Jay Sanderson has a good old Hollywood chit-chat with Billy Harris, fundraiser extraordinaire, dinner host, and major food celebrity, about his journey from Brooklyn to Hollywood and beyond!
Uri D. Herscher, Founding President & CEO of the Skirball Cultural Center, joins Jay Sanderson on Jay’s 4 Questions to discuss identity, Jewish tradition, and the mission and role of the Skirball in creating a safe space for all.
This week, host Jay Sanderson speaks with Faye Kellerman, one of America’s most beloved mystery writers. They discuss how her love for Judaism always accompanied her on her journey from dentistry to writing — and remains a fixture in her everyday life. She also shared that her keen listening skills and vivid imagination have played key roles in her long-term success!
This week on Jay’s 4 Questions, James Beard Award-Winning Chef Alon Shaya joins Jay Sanderson for a lively conversation about how food led him on a journey of self-exploration and how cauliflower can be a “gateway drug.”
This week’s guest is Rabbi Angela Buchdahl, Senior Rabbi at New York City’s Central Synagogue. Born in Seoul, Korea, tune in to hear her journey to become a leader at one of the largest reform congregations in America and how she focuses on breaking down barriers, a subject deeply rooted in her life and work.
This week, Jonathan Greenblatt, CEO and National Director of the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), joins Federation President & CEO Jay Sanderson to discuss what inspired him on his career path from Ethos Water and Starbucks to the White House and the ADL.
This episode of Jay’s 4 Questions features a conversation with Rabbi Mavin Hier, Founder & Dean of the Simon Wiesenthal Center and the Museum of Tolerance, with Federation President & CEO Jay Sanderson. This rabbi’s resume includes Academy Award-Winning Producer, institution builder, and outspoken Jewish leader. Tune in for more!
Mayor Eric Garcetti joins Jay’s 4 Questions podcast to talk about his multicultural background and his love for navigating culture and crossing borders. He shares his passion for social change, public policy, and the impact we can all make in the world. Tune in to hear what motivates the mayor of Los Angeles and the most pressing issues that keep him committed to making our city a better place. On crossing borders, the mayor said, “If there’s a place that makes you uncomfortable, seek it out.” For these wise words and more, check out our interview with Mayor Garcetti.
This week on the podcast, Jay Sanderson speaks with Chef Michelle Bernstein, Miami’s James Beard Award-Winning Chef, Author, and TV Personality. Chef Michelle shares her passion for cooking and her journey through the culinary world — and what it’s like to be a woman in the restaurant industry.
Jay Sanderson speaks with Rabbi Ed Feinstein, Senior Rabbi of Valley Beth Shalom, about the role of rabbis and Jewish life through generations. Rabbi Feinstein discusses the power of that sacred moment when family, ideas, food, and conversation all become one during Shabbat dinner.
Expressing his view that the Jewish people represent the rainbow of diversity, Rabbi Feinstein toggles with Jay about what Judaism should look like, along with noting the importance and necessity of change. Tune in to hear about magic challah, heavenly holy brownies, and more!
Podcast guest Abby Stein has a truly incredible story: she was once a Hasidic man living as a rabbi in the Ultra-Orthodox epicenter of Williamsburg, New York who has now found freedom and truth in her new life as an openly transgender woman.
She reminisces about growing up surrounded by her devout parents and 12 siblings in their extremely insular community. Abby only has her memories now, as her difficult life decision caused her family to cut all ties. She is currently based in Manhattan and studies at Columbia University, but travels around the nation to share her personal journey and advocate for the rights of transgender individuals everywhere.
Don’t miss her honest and inspiring story! Also, be sure to check out InStyle’s article about her: Meet the Hasidic Rabbi Who Realized She Was Transgender Thanks to a Google Search.
Political strategist, pollster, public opinion guru, and Founder and CEO of Luntz Global Frank Luntz joins Jay for a thoughtful discussion about the lack of civic awareness in the next generation. It was his concern about the need to incorporate this mentality into the curriculum that took Frank from corporate America and propelled him into academia. With current positions at Harvard and Yale and various institutions in Israel and the United Arab Emirates, Frank emphasizes to his students that the U.S. was built on economic mobility and intellectual freedom, tenets that should not be taken for granted. You’ll have to listen to the podcast for more of his take on the issue!
Aton Ben-Horin, Global VP of A&R at Warner Music Group and one of the most influential music-makers in the world today, joins us this week on the podcast! He shares the origin of his passion for music and the ensuing journey, tips for those pursuing a career in the industry, and his love for Shabbat dinners. He also reveals his thoughts on how to make Judaism more than just a one-hit wonder. Tune in for more!
Aton is involved with Creative Communities for Peace — to learn more, visit https://www.creativecommunityforpeace.com/.
Questions or feedback? E-mail us at Podcast@JewishLA.org!
Special Edition for Yom Ha’atzmaut Chef Einat Admony guest stars on Jay’s 4 Questions podcast this week. Admony, the trailblazer who first brought Israeli food to New York City, talks with podcast host Jay Sanderson about how each of her dishes tells her immigrant story and reveals the secret to making the world’s best falafel.
Einat shared with us her infamous Kit Kat Candy Bar recipe, excerpted from her cookbook Balaboosta (Artisan Books, Copyright © 2013).. This is one of Jay’s favorite recipes too! Enjoy! Check out Balaboosta for more Mediterranean recipes!
Homemade Kit Kat Candy Bar
Makes about 24 pieces
14 ounces 72% chocolate, broken into tiny pieces
¾ cup Nutella
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
2 cups crushed corn flakes (about 3 cups whole)
1¾ cup heavy cream
Fill a medium saucepan three-quarters full with water and bring to a simmer. Combine 1 ounce of the chocolate with the butter in a large bowl. Place the bowl over the saucepan and slowly melt the chocolate and butter together, stirring occasionally with a rubber spatula. Remove from the heat, reserving the pan of hot water, and stir in the Nutella. Cool completely, then mix in the crushed cornflakes. Spread this mixture evenly in a 9-by-13-inch baking pan and reserve in the refrigerator until the coating is ready.
Bring the saucepan of hot water back to a simmer. Combine the remaining 13 ounces chocolate and the heavy cream in a large bowl and place it over the saucepan. Stir the mixture occasionally with a rubber spatula to combine the melting chocolate with the heavy cream. Remove from the heat and slowly pour the ganache over the crispy Nutella mixture. Place the baking pan in the refrigerator until the chocolate is completely set and firm. Cut into finger-sized rectangles and watch them disappear in minutes.
This week, civil rights attorney and media personality Lisa Bloom joins host Jay Sanderson to talk about her lifelong quest for social justice and why Israel is the most vegan-friendly country in the world. She also discusses her professional trajectory and the types of cases she deals with daily.
Tune in to hear more!
Questions or Feedback? E-mail us at Podcast@JewishLA.org!
This week, Esther Kustanowitz — writer, blogger, journalist, and social commentator — joins host Jay Sanderson for a fun game of “Who would we invite to our Passover Seder?” Things get a bit more serious when the two talk about issues that can both challenge and strengthen a community. Tune in to hear more!
Esther is a contributing writer at the Jewish Journal. Follow her on Twitter @ESTHERK.
Questions or Feedback? E-mail us at Podcast@JewishLA.org!
Top Chef judge and cookbook author Gail Simmons talks all things food on this week’s episode. One of today’s most recognized food personalities, Gail knows the way to our hearts — through our stomachs — and takes us on a culinary adventure through her roles as food writer, dynamic TV host, cookbook author, and more. She even lets us in on how to achieve the perfect work-life balance. Tune in to find out if Gail thinks self-proclaimed foodie and chef Jay has what it takes to be the next Top Chef!
Just in time for Passover, Gail shares her favorite breadless recipes! Matzah ball soup, horseradish brisket, and more — you’ll want to try these at home! Check out Williams Sonoma’s Passover piece on Gail, or visit the website for her new cookbook Bringing it Home: Favorite Recipes from a Life of Adventurous Eating.
Questions or feedback? E-mail us at Podcast@JewishLA.org!
Dennis Prager, American nationally syndicated radio talk show host, joins Jay Sanderson to discuss the Left, the Right, the concept of labeling, and the importance of listening and learning.
This week, host Jay Sanderson speaks with Rabbi Steve Leder of Wilshire Boulevard Temple, the oldest synagogue in California. Their conversation covers everything from fishing to rock and roll! Rabbi Leder goes in depth about his role as a rabbi and how he connects with the community. Rabbi Leder also discusses how boredom negatively impacts spirituality and religious practice. Tune in to hear more!
Check out Rabbi Leder’s new book, More Beautiful Than Before: How Suffering Transforms Us.
Questions or Feedback? E-mail us at Podcast@JewishLA.org!
This week, host Jay Sanderson speaks with David Suissa, Editor-in-Chief of the Jewish Journal. Their conversation reveals David’s multiple identities, passion for mystical Judaism, and pioneering spirit as it relates to Jewish messaging and marketing.
This week, host Jay Sanderson speaks with nine-term Congressman Adam Schiff about their shared commitment to public service, desire for greater civil discourse in America, and love for the Boston Red Sox.
This week, host Jay Sanderson speaks with Cannabis Feminist’s Jackie Mostny about cannabis’ healing power, the concept of Shablunt, and even cannabis-infused challah. This is one dynamic, interesting, and controversial conversation you won’t want to miss!
This week, host Jay Sanderson speaks with world music superstar, producer, composer, and recording artist Idan Raichel. Idan traces his love of music to his childhood in Israel, sharing early memories with Jay and how they influenced his career as an artist. They also discuss modern Judaism and, as Idan puts it, the need to “update the software for future generations” to keep them engaged and connected to Jewish life.
Idan will be on tour from February 17 - March 1, 2018, ending in Los Angeles. Get more information and see him in concert!
Questions or Feedback? Email us at Podcast@JewishLA.org!
This week, host Jay Sanderson speaks with four-time Olympic gold medalist Lenny Krayzelburg. Hear about Lenny’s journey from Odessa to Los Angeles — exemplifying the American Dream — and his rise to backstroke world champion. They also discuss how Lenny became one of the greatest swim teachers in America and his commitment to teaching every child how to swim.
This week’s edition of Jay’s 4 Questions is extra special! Host Jay Sanderson speaks with Bob Saget —comedian, actor, director, and writer — for an energetic conversation about his life, career, and talent for making people laugh. Jay also draws out Bob’s deep and soulful side that’s rarely shown. With commentary about G-d and requisite comedy bits, this episode has it all.
This week, host Jay Sanderson sits down with Noa Tishby — actress, producer, mother, activist, singer, and community leader. Their discussion highlights Noa’s role as a trailblazer in both Hollywood and Israel. Tune in to learn about Noa’s passions and accomplishments and find out how she uses them to continuously transform the entertainment world’s perception of Israel.
This week, Federation President & CEO Jay Sanderson sits down with Faith Leener, Co-founder and Director of Base. Jay speaks with Faith about her home base of Charlotte, North Carolina, fun topics like the difference between grits and matzah brei, and serious business like inspiring Jewish leadership. Tune in today!
This week, Jay’s 4 Questions brings a musical and artistic flare with guest David Broza, international recording star and poet. Broza’s songwriting inspiration stems from his eclectic roots — Spanish, Israeli, American, you name it — uniting listeners of varying cultures and traditions. Tune in today – you won’t want to miss it!
This week, host Jay Sanderson engages David Yarus, Founder of JSwipe and mllnnl, in a dynamic and exciting conversation. David reveals the genesis of JSwipe and shares his unique perspective on Judaism. Don’t miss it!
This week, host Jay Sanderson speaks with Archie Gottesman, Co-founder of JewBelong.com and branding expert. They discuss Archie’s specialty — using unconventional messaging and creative ad campaigns to reach those that are not engaged Jewishly.
This week, host Jay Sanderson speaks with Rabbi David Wolpe, the Max Webb Senior Rabbi of Sinai Temple. They discuss Rabbi Wolpe’s personal journey, issues affecting his community, as well as today’s polarizing political climate.
This week, host Jay Sanderson speaks with cookbook author, food writer, and chef Joan Nathan about latkes, cooking, and her view of the Jewish world through her recipes.
This week, host Jay Sanderson speaks with Yaakov Katz, Editor-in-Chief of the Jerusalem Post, and gets his take on the media as it relates to democracy.
This week, Jay Sanderson sits down with a special guest from Israel, Rabbi Dr. Donniel Hartman, President of the Shalom Hartman Institute. Their spiritual conversation covers issues that center on G-d, pluralism, and the current state of Judaism in the world.
This week, Jay’s 4 Questions gets political with Jake Sherman, Politico’s Senior Writer and Co-Author of Politico’s Playbook. Tune in to hear about Jake’s role as a reporter, writer, and new father – and how he somehow has time to release an upcoming book about Congress and host Shabbat dinners as well!
Jay Sanderson sits down with Sean Rad, Founder & Chairman of Tinder, to discuss technology, tefillin, and tadig!
Jay Sanderson converses with Rabbi Sharon Brous, Founder and Senior Rabbi of IKAR, about reimagining religion in the 21st century and the joys of ice cream.
Jay Sanderson speaks with Alana Newhouse, Editor-in-Chief of Tablet Magazine, about her experience as a journalist and how she navigates Jewish life.
Jay Sanderson sits down with Rob Eshman, former Editor-in-Chief & Publisher of The Jewish Journal, to discuss Judaism’s role in Rob’s personal and professional life and culinary explorations.