Ayuni: Voices of our Jewish Grandmothers

We are so glad that you have been enjoying Ayuni: Voices of our Jewish Grandmothers . While we're on hiatus preparing season 2 we want to introduce you to another wonderful podcast bringing to life and memory voices of our past. The podcast Heritage Words helps preserve and promote Jewish languages that may be lesser known, many of which are becoming extinct. As an example we share here an episode...

February 5, 2026 – 18 Shevat 5786   Episode Summary In this episode we tell of stories that have been passed down in our families of courageous acts by women at varying points in their lives. They serve as role models for us today as we navigate a new world but with equal opportunities to show strength and courage.   Enjoyed this episode?  Please like, comment, or leave a review on your podcast pl...

January 29, 2026 – 11 Shevat 5786   Episode Summary In this episode we explore the world of women’s songs, often sung in the local Jewish dialect. We delve into the meanings of the words of the songs as well as the significance in the act of women singing. It is an discovery of a rich culture through song.   Enjoyed this episode?  Please like, comment, or leave a review on your podcast platform or...

January 15, 2026 – 26 Tevet 5786   Episode Summary In this episode we dive into Shabbat memories from our homes to the homes of our ancestors. We discuss the preparations, scents ant he meaning of this day – then and now.   Enjoyed this episode?  Please like, comment, or leave a review on your podcast platform or send us an email at ayunivoices@gmail.com Your encouragement helps us carry these anc...

January 8, 2026 – 19 Tevet 5786 In this episode we explore memories of our grandmothers’ evil eye rituals and search for meaning in those practices for today. While Sarah grew up with these rituals close to home, and in her home, Dalya shares that her family’s connection to such practices were only brought to her attention recently. It’s an interesting discussion that takes part in a larger conver...

January 1, 2026 - 12 Tevet 2786 In this episode we explore our memories from our own henna ceremonies and the meaning of such events – then and now. We discuss the meaning these ceremonies hold for us, for our grandmothers and for our heritage. Enjoyed this episode?  Please like, comment, or leave a review on your podcast platform or send us an email at ayunivoices@gmail.com Your encouragement hel...

December 25, 2025 - 5 Tevet 5786 “Food is our grandmothers’ love language” Episode Summary In this episode we delve into memories deeply associated with the kitchen, from the aromas and tastes to the wisdom and culture passed down while cooking. Our grandmothers poured hours into making food to fill the stomachs and hearts of their descendants, but it wasn’t just that – it was hours spent with oth...

December 18, 2025 - 29 Kislev 5786 Episode Summary In this episode, we explore Rosh Hodesh as a historic women’s holiday—an ancient pause for renewal, rest, and sisterhood. Sources from the Cairo Genizah to the Shulḥan Arukh describe women gathering in bathhouses, refraining from work, and celebrating a day given to them for refusing to participate in the Golden Calf. Across North Africa and parts...

“You are dearer to me than my own eyes”  December 14, 2025 - 25 Kislev 5786 Episode Summary In our opening episode, we explore the heart of Ayuni: Voices of Our Jewish Grandmothers . Ayuni —“my eyes,” “dearer to me than my own eyes”—is the tender phrase many Middle Eastern Jewish grandmothers used for their children and grandchildren. We introduce who Mizrahi MENA Jews are: ancient Jewish communit...