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 Holocaust survivors, ultimately celebrating the miracle of being part of a family and community.

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

This conversation explores the evolving role of women in Jewish leadership, the challenges of balancing work and family life, and the importance of community engagement. Rabbi Liz P.G. Hirsch discusses her experiences transitioning to Cincinnati, the significance of sisterhood, and the impact of the pandemic on family dynamics. The dialogue emphasizes the need for inclusion and advocacy within the Jewish community, drawing parallels to the story of Esther as a symbol of leadership and resilience.

• Rabbi Hirsch’s op-ed on parental leave in the Cincinnati Enquirer
• Rabbi Hirsch’s op-ed on the current humanitarian crisis in Israel and Gaza in eJewish Philanthropy
• the Jewish Insider piece on Rabbi Hirsch’s meeting with FM Sa’ar
• A save the date to WRJ’s Day of Action
• Rabbi Hirsch’s bio

 Want more? Watch the full interview! https://youtu.be/8FQbYX2ctvE

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

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 jewfolk.com/podcast or email [email protected]

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 Network, a product of Jewfolk, Inc. For more information, go to jewfolk.com/podcast or email [email protected]

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 is more or less serious than you think. 

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

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 respect, they offer listeners a compassionate look at living with anxiety, sharing strategies for managing overwhelming feelings and finding support.

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

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 it all. 

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

The Kibbitzers welcomed the community to Cafe Alma for the show's launch party. Listen to the live interview with Cincy Jewfolk editor Sam Fisher helping the people learn about Andrea and Melissa, get to know about what's in store for this season, and answer some VERY deep listener-submitted questions. 

Books that would be good reads based on the discussions: 

People Love Dead Jews: Reports from a Haunted Present by Dara Horn

Can We Talk About Israel?: A Guide for the Curious, Confused, and Conflicted by Daniel Sokatch  (Author), Christopher Noxon  (Illustrator)


Uncomfortable Conversations with a Jew by Emmanuel Acho, Noa Tishby, et al.
Israel: A Simple Guide to the Most Misunderstood Country on Earth by Noa Tishby
Here All Along: Finding Meaning, Spirituality, and a Deeper Connection to Life - in Judaism (After Finally Choosing to Look There) by Sarah Hurwitz







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

We have our first guest! Andrea and Melissa welcome singer/songwriter Dan Nichols to the show. What started as a discussion of the importance of Jewish overnight camp in shaping Dan's story turned into a deeper discussion of how he found his place in the Jewish community, mental health, family, and of course music. Plus, Dan shares a new track from his forthcoming album, "The Mirror." 

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

This week, Andrea and Melissa discuss the rise in antisemitism, express frustration over the normalization of antisemitism and the challenges of addressing it, including the uninviting of a Zionist rabbi from an anti-Neo Nazi event and the desecration of a Jewish cemetery in Cincinnati. They emphasize the historical and cultural significance of Israel, refute the claim that Jews are white colonizers, and highlight the need for nuanced discussions and support for Israel's right to exist.

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