The Chai Road

The Chai Road

The Chai Road is a podcast where we explore powerful stories, inspiring journeys, and important conversations about faith, identity, and resilience. Hosted by Max Alperstein, a Jewish teenager, each episode features thought-provoking discussions with guests who are making a difference in their communities. Whether it's about embracing who you are, standing up for what you believe in, or navigating life’s challenges, The Chai Road brings you real stories from real people. Tune in for episodes that will inspire, uplift, and encourage you to walk your own Chai Road!

Episodes

August 20, 2025 23 mins

Join 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 an...

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In 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 conf...

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In 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...

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Join 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 Jewis...

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Join 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 ...

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Logan Levkoff: Sexy Zionism - The Chai Road Ep. 8

In 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 ane...

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Welcome 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 medi...

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In 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...

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In 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 pro...

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On 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 unwav...

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In 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 discuss...

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In this profoundly inspiring Episode 2 of The Chai Road, your host Max Alperstein sits down

with Jes Escalante, a Latin trans convert to Judaism, who is not only navigating their

unique 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 and

trans identities, and using their voice to challenge hatred whi...

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Description:

Welcome to The Chai Road, a podcast that embraces the high road and champions

what’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 ...

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