The Kibbitz

Join Andrea and Melissa as they reflect on their first year of podcasting, sharing insights on community building, Jewish identity, college decisions, and personal growth. This episode celebrates their journey, the guests they've hosted, and their hopes for the future of Jewish community engagement.

The Kibbitz is part of the Jewfolk Podcast Network, a product of Jewfolk, Inc. For more information, go to jewfolk.com/podcast or email...

This week, Andrea and Melissa talk with "Andrea's Rabbi," Rabbi Sandford Kopnick of Valley Temple. The conversation explores the Jewish understanding of God, the evolution of beliefs, and how Judaism approaches morality, community, and the concept of being chosen. It offers deep insights into modern and traditional perspectives on faith, belief, and ethical living.

The Kibbitz is part of the Jewfolk Podcast Network, a product of Jew...

Congressman Greg Landsman joins Andrea and Melissa from Studio North! This episode features an in-depth exploration of community building, antisemitism, political strategy, and personal hope. The discussion offers valuable insights into current political and social issues, emphasizing the importance of community, trust, and resilience.

The Kibbitz is part of the Jewfolk Podcast Network, a product of Jewfolk, Inc. For more informatio...

In today’s fast-paced world, many of us find ourselves overwhelmed by our wardrobes, often feeling like we have nothing to wear despite a closet full of clothes. In this week's episode, Andrea and Melissa sit down with Ivy Costa, a personal stylist who has dedicated her career to helping women navigate their wardrobe dilemmas and rediscover their unique style. 

The Kibbitz is part of the Jewfolk Podcast Network, a product...

Can we really keep our kids safe on campus? The rise in antisemitism is real, and it’s coming from all directions. On a news-breaking episode of The Kibbitz, Andrea and Melissa talk with Shira Goodman from the ADL, for a deep-dive into the current landscape of antisemitism in schools, including breaking some details from the ADL's newly released Campus Antisemitism Report Card. While it’s alarming to know that our kids ...

This conversation explores the profound experiences of volunteering in Israel, particularly in the context of the recent conflict. The speaker shares personal stories of connection to Israel, the weight of responsibility on young soldiers, and the urgent need for support in the military. The discussion also touches on the impact of anti-Semitism, the importance of community, and the lessons learned from serving in a war zone.

The Ki...

In the world of fitness, personal training can often feel intimidating, especially to those who are just starting their journey. In this enlightening podcast episode, Melissa and Andrea welcome Andrea' trainer, John Rupp, to explore the transformative power of exercise and how it can serve as a therapeutic outlet for frustrations and stress. They share personal anecdotes and insights that highlight the importance of adapting fitnes...

In this conversation, Dr. Sarah Crane discusses her journey into Holocaust and genocide studies, the evolution of Holocaust education, and the importance of survivor stories. She emphasizes the need for critical thinking in understanding history and the role of ordinary people in both perpetrating and resisting genocide. The discussion also touches on the challenges of teaching about trauma, the significance of empathy, and the rel...

Melissa and Andrea welcome Rabbi Ari Jun, where they discuss the importance of giving grace and understanding in today's society, particularly within the Jewish community. They explore the challenges of navigating Jewish identity amidst rising antisemitism and the complexities surrounding Zionism. The conversation emphasizes the significance of storytelling, community engagement, and mental health support, while also addressing the...

In this engaging conversation, the hosts and their husbands share personal stories about their relationships, discussing the privileges of marriage, the importance of support, and the challenges of parenting. They reflect on how love evolves over time, the role of humor in navigating tough times, and the impact of their upbringings on their views of marriage. The discussion highlights the significance of gratitude and appreciation ...

In this conversation, Andrea and Melissa explore the significance of cookbooks in Jewish culture, particularly focusing on the Settlement Cookbook and its role in the Americanization of Jewish immigrants. They discuss how cookbooks serve as texts that reflect community values, identity, and memory, while also sharing personal anecdotes about family recipes and the legacy of cooking traditions. The dialogue highlights the evolution ...

In this conversation, Melissa and Andrea explore the significance of family connections, the role of being a family keeper, and the emotional weight of inherited stories and artifacts. They discuss the impact of family history on personal identity, the journey of discovering ancestry, and the importance of technology in genealogy. The conversation highlights the shared experiences that connect generations and the legacy of Holocaus...

Before a late-summer hiatus, Andrea and Melissa reflect on their experience seeing the iconic "Fiddler on the Roof" at Music Hall Cincinnati. The Kibbitzers talked about the current run of the show, but also the importance of the show not just in Jewish culture at large, but also specifically to them and their families.  

The Kibbitz is part of the Jewfolk Podcast Network, a product of Jewfolk, Inc. For more information, go to ...

In this episode, Andrea and Melissa talk with Sarah Fried from Hillel International about what Jewish college students are facing today — and how Hillel is helping them find connection, safety, and meaning. Whether you’re a student, a parent, or both, you’ll get honest insights and practical advice on navigating Jewish life on campus. Spoiler: It’s going to be okay.

The Kibbitz is part of the Jewfolk Podcast ...

It's never been more challenging to find the right college for your child. In a world where antisemitism is rising, what are some of the things that it's important to look for? This week, Andrea and Melissa welcome Keri Bahar, the founder of KSB College Consulting, to the podcast. Keri and the Kibbitzers talk about the modern challenges, what parents and kids are really looking for, and how to determine if what you're reading about...

In this raw and intimate episode of The Kibbitz, Andrea and Melissa explore the complex world of anxiety through personal stories and shared experiences. The two friends dive deep into their struggles with anxiety, discussing how it impacts their lives, creative work, and relationships. They unpack generational trauma, coping mechanisms, and the importance of acknowledging emotional challenges. With humor, vulnerability, and mutual...

This week, Andrea and Melissa are exploring the challenges and nuances faced by those in the "Sandwich Generation" — people who are simultaneously caring for their children and aging parents. Their discussions on life in The Middle—whether geographically in the heartland or within family dynamics—offer relatable insights into juggling responsibilities, maintaining relationships, and finding personal space amidst i...