Can Jew Believe?

In this second of a two-part episode of "Can You Believe?," Host Brad Pomerance and Professor Pamela Nadell, Author of Antisemitism, An American Tradition, delve into the complex history of antisemitism in America, beginning in this episode with the post-Civil War era. They explore pivotal moments such as the Seligman Affair, which highlighted social exclusion in the late 19th century, a...

In this episode of "Can Jew Believe? With Brad Pomerance," Brad is joined by American University Professor and Author Pamela S. Nadell.  We delve into the complex history of antisemitism in the United States, exploring its roots and persistence as an American tradition. We discuss the provocative title of her book, "Antisemitism, An American Tradition," and its implications.  T...

"Can You Believe?" Host Brad Pomerance speaks with Russell Robinson, CEO of the Jewish National Fund, who offers a remarkably optimistic view about the State of Israel and the Jewish people. Robinson discusses the resilience of the Jewish people throughout history and the pivotal role that the JNF played in the establishment and development of Israel. Brad and Russell explore the concept...

Brad Pomerance continues his interview with Dr. Shari Rabin about her book “The Jewish South," where they explore the complex history of the Jewish community in the South after the Civil War, the Leo Frank case of the mid 1910’s, and the role Southern Jews played during the Civil Rights Movement. Brad and Dr. Rabin also discuss the challenges faced by Jews in the South in the 21st century, includi...

Brad Pomerance interviews Dr. Shari Rabin about her book, "The Jewish South," exploring the history of the Southern Jewish community in the United States up to and into the Civil War, covering Jewish migration to the Southern U.S., the establishment of Jewish communities in Charleston and Savannah, and the Jewish community’s participation in slavery and the Civil War, touching on U.S. General Ulys...

Brad Pomerance chats with Viv Anstey, a longtime leader in South Africa’s Jewish community. They explore the historical and contemporary experiences of South African Jewry, focusing on the community’s historic development, the apartheid era, the South African government’s hostility toward the State of Israel, and the community’s tremendous resilience despite modern challenges. Brad and Viv also di...

Linda Ambrose Broenniman shares her remarkable journey of discovering her family’s deep Jewish roots, a secret hidden from her for decades. From her Catholic upbringing in Buffalo, New York, to uncovering her family's rich Jewish Hungarian heritage and the heroic actions of her mother during the Holocaust, Linda's story is one of resilience, identity, and the importance of understanding on...

Brad Pomerance interviews Georgia State Representative Esther Panitch (D), the only Jewish member of the Georgia State Legislature, a body of 236 members.  They discuss her journey into politics, the representation of Jews in Georgia, and the complexities of Jewish identity within the political landscape. Panitch shares her insights into Jewish Americans’ traditional and modern connections to the...

In this conversation, Sarah Levin, the executive director of JIMENA, discusses the experience and identity of Sephardic (Iberian) and Mizrahi (Middle Eastern) Jews in the United States. The conversation explores the historical context of Jewish immigration, the demographic makeup of American Jewry, and the cultural distinctions between different Jewish communities. Levin highlights the importance...

On this episode of  Can Jew Believe? With Brad Pomerance , Country Music Star Joe Buchanan chronicles his unique, ultimately joyful journey to joining the Jewish faith. In this engaging conversation, Joe Buchanan shares his path from the Texas Hill Country to the Congregation Shaar Hashalom, after he learned several years into his marriage that his wife was Jewish. He discusses the joys of Judaism...

In this conversation, Brianna Wu discusses her journey as a trans woman and her advocacy for Jewish Americans and Israel. She reflects on the intersection of her identity with her political beliefs, the challenges faced by the LGBTQ community, and the impact of anti-Semitism. Wu emphasizes the need for education and awareness within progressive politics and calls for unity among marginalized group...