TBA Now!

Are all politics really local? Maxwell Palmer, Associate Professor of political science at Boston University, explains the ins and outs of politics locally and nationally and how policy changes begin at the grassroot level. He analyzes complex topics such as the use of the filibuster in a polarized Senate and the power of today’s US Supreme Court vs years past. Max also shines a light on hot button local issues in the City of Newton regarding affordable housing, mass transit, zoning and how you might consider getting involved. Join us on this episode of TBA Now! to be enlightened and engaged.

Dr. Sharon Inouye is Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School and Director of the Aging Brain Center at the Marcus Institute for Aging Research, Hebrew SeniorLife. As one of the nation's leading geriatric voices she has pushed for age equity in COVID-19 vaccine trials and developed a framework to improve acute care for older persons across the globe. Her dedication to her field and compassion for her patients is inspiring. Listen in to hear her uplifting thoughts about adults, how they age and what they have to look forward to!

How did Nancy make the leap from the mom of child with epilepsy to a cannabis counselor? Learn why Nancy entered the medical marijuana arena and what she’s learned from her years of training and work at a local dispensary. Hear the success stories of Nancy's clients and how she helps them navigate available treatment options for many medical conditions. Tune in to this eye-opening episode of TBA Now!

TBA Congregant Steve Kaufer is the co-founder and CEO of TripAdvisor. In this episode Steve discusses the genesis of TripAdvisor, how the company has maneuvered during these COVID times and the exciting new TripAdvisor changes coming ahead, including why he is stepping down as CEO. Listen as he discusses his latest philanthropic focus and what he thinks his next ten years will look like. Come and be inspired by this innovative and kind-hearted businessman.

TBA member Dan Rubin is the Director of School Counseling at Newton South High School. Under his watchful eye he has counseled thousands of students. His interaction with these students and their families has given him perspective on the many challenges our young people face growing up in a resourced and sometimes pressure-filled environment. As a Newton native and Newton South graduate, Dan knows these pressures well. For all of us, the COVID-19 pandemic has only served to intensify these pressures.

On September 11, 2001 life changed for Susan Retik. She was a mother of two young children with another on the way when Flight 11 carrying her husband David hit the twin towers. Her commitment to Afghan widows was born of her own journey into widowhood. She co-founded Beyond the 11th, a foundation to counter acts of hate with acts of humanity. She has become an inspirational speaker, sharing her remarkable story of transforming personal loss into humanitarian outreach. She is also a Certified Leadership Coach, helping clients gain self-awareness, unlock their potential, and clarify professional goals to align more authentically with deeply held personal values. Susan has received numerous awards for her humanitarian work, including the Presidential Citizen’s Medal, the country’s second highest civilian award.

TBA member Dr. Shelly Greenfield is an internationally respected psychiatrist, clinician, and researcher. She is the chief academic officer at McLean Hospital, to name just one of her many distinguished roles. Her work focuses on substance abuse treatment, gender differences, and substance health services. In this podcast, Shelly shares some very serious concerns about the epidemic of substance abuse in America along with effective treatment options available right now.

We call Jamie Saltman maestro at Temple Beth Avodah. He’s played the piano at many services, arranged traditional tunes, and is the anchor for TBA’s Jazz Shabbat experience. During the summer Jamie, along with his wife Ellen, is the Director of Camp Encore/Coda. Listen to the maestro share his story through his words and music.

Ted Tye spends a lot of time dreaming about space. He imagines repurposing old buildings for innovative new living spaces. He sees wholly new concepts for shared spaces. Ted sees the future and then builds it.

Our latest podcast features Dave Punch, master chef extraordinaire. Any local foodie knows Dave's empire: Jinny's Pizza, Little Big Diner, Buttonwood, and Sycamore, the jewel in the crown. His uncompromising attitude about serving great food is backed by his equal dedication to supporting his staff, from dishwasher to sous chef. Foodies, come listen to the chef talk about his craft, and why all four of his eateries have made it through Covid.