One of the most intimidating things about being on your Jewish journey is answering the question, "What kind of Jew are you?" There are so many ways 'to Jew', how can you possibly choose? And once you do, who said you're personally ready to be labeled in a specific way?

Instagram and TikTok star Melinda Strauss is no stranger to this concept. Knowing that the Jewish identity is personal, she emphasizes how to navigate the constant barrage of communal standards while giving the breakdown for how to follow mitzvahs and practices that work best for you.

00:00 Introduction

06:11 Funny commentary

09:10 Embrace your identity and choices, and respect others

10:46 Orthodox Judaism: diverse sects united by Torah

13:17 Calling me a sinner is also sin

17:21 Being a Jew is diverse and personal

21:53 Envying others' Jewish school and religious choices

23:05 Discovering Judaism as a couple

27:23 Discovering practical blessings broke my rigid perceptions

32:00 Fear of future, toxic shame, seeking help

32:42 Conclusion

About Melinda Struass:

Melinda Strauss, a Jewish Content Creator on social media with over 1 million followers on TikTok and Instagram, is well known for her educational videos about Orthodox Judaism, Jewish history, discussing Antisemitism and Zionism, sharing her kosher recipes and her everyday life. Born and raised in Seattle WA, Melinda now lives with her family in New York. 

Melinda has been blogging and sharing her recipes since 2011 and she will be debuting her first cookbook in Fall 2025. 

Connect with Melinda:

MelindaStrauss.com

IG and TikTok: @therealmelindastrauss 

YouTube: @therealmelindastrauss  

Connect with Bad Jew:

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https://linktr.ee/badjew

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