When the echoes of Michael Jackson's beats ignited a young Stefano Iacono's love for music, little did he know it would pave his way to becoming a cantor. Join me, Nicole Kelly, as I chat with Stefano on Shebrew in the City and share a symphony of anecdotes that illustrates how his musical zeal intertwined with a spiritual awakening. Together, we'll explore the nuances of his melodious journey, from acquiring guitar skills out of envy to finding solace in the strums that now feel like an extension of his soul, all while uncovering the serendipitous twists that shaped his path to the harmonious role he cherishes today.In this extra packed episode of Shebrew in the City, come on a journey of discovery and heart as Stefano takes me beat by beat through his life, his conversion to Judaism, and his work in the clergy today. This episode includes musical excerpts from "Out of the Closet" A fearless celebration of queer music and the voices who inspire us that was hosted by Cantor Stefano Iacono at Congregation Rodeph Sholom. For a live video of the whole concert please visit: https://rodephsholom.org/aiovg_videos/out-of-the-closet-a-fearless-celebration-of-queer-music-and-the-voices-who-inspire-us/Support the show

As your host at Shebrew in the City, I, Nicole Kelly, had the pleasure of sitting down with the vibrant Pam Wiznitzer, master mixologist and social media maven. Our heartfelt conversation soared from the intricacies of Jewish traditions and their influence on Pam's passion for mixology, to the shared laughter over our first drinks. Revel in the stories of our personal journeys - from navigating conservative upbringing to embracing the artistry of the cocktail, and the meaningful connections fostered with patrons across the bar.This episode isn't just about drinks; it's a toast to the resilience and innovation of women in the bartending industry. Pam and I unpack the sometimes bittersweet cocktail of challenges and triumphs she's faced and share how these experiences have stirred her ambition to mentor the next generation of female mixologists. Get a taste of culture as we discuss iconic events like Oktoberfest, Cinco de Mayo, and even Santa-con and how she blends the flavors of her Jewish heritage into every shake and stir of her creations.Lastly, join us as we pour creativity into crafting cocktails that do more than just quench thirst - they tell a story, evoke memories, and celebrate identity. Whether you fancy turning your hand to home mixology or just enjoy a good yarn over a well-crafted drink, this episode promises to shake up your day. Pam shares a glimpse of her passion aimed at combating hate, while hints at possible new ventures beyond the world of mixology. So, grab your favorite glass, and let's raise a toast to journeys shared and stories yet to be told. Cheers!TopDogTours TopDogTours is your walking tour company. Available in New York, Philly, Boston, & Toronto!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

Peek behind the curtain of history as our Producer, Patrick, rejoins us and gets to lean into his New York City tour guide roots, as he joins me in painting a vivid portrait of Emma Lazarus, the illustrious American author whose words on the Statue of Liberty have become a national treasure. Our conversation travels through the corridors of her life, from her New York roots and Sephardic Jewish heritage to her poignant poetry that speaks volumes about America's soul. We promise you'll leave this episode with a newfound appreciation for Lazarus's influence on our nation's narrative, especially in the realm of immigration discourse.Step into the world of 19th-century artistic salons and witness the birth of celebrity culture among poets and intellectuals of the age. We'll explore how Lazarus's literary prowess was nurtured in such a vibrant environment, leading to her engagement with social issues and activism that still echo today. Finally, we draw captivating parallels between historical events and their reinterpretation in modern media. From the emotional impact of immigrants laying eyes on Lady Liberty for the first time, to the transformation of the iconic words in the Wolfenstein video game series, we traverse not just the life of Emma Lazarus but also the shifting sands of symbolism she helped shape. So, join us for this tapestry of tales and take a step back in time to appreciate the enduring spirit that these icons represent.TopDogTours TopDogTours is your walking tour company. Available in New York, Philly, Boston, & Toronto!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

Hey all you cool moms out there! Come join Nicole Kelly and Jenna Liu founder of Sixx Cool Moms as they discuss modern motherhood and starting new businesses. Jenna revisits her Jewish heritage and the powerful moment she celebrated her Bat Mitzvah on a Birthright trip to Israel, offering a unique perspective on the traditional coming-of-age ceremony and its profound significance when experienced in adulthood.Throughout our conversation, Jenna offers an intimate glimpse into her life's transition from political account executive to entrepreneurial mom. She paints a captivating picture of creating a sanctuary for mothers on Facebook, where support and authenticity reign supreme. These mom groups, brimming with camaraderie and local business connections, have flourished into a beacon for parents navigating the complexities of modern motherhood. Jenna's tale is a testament to the strength found in community and the unexpected paths that lead to fulfilling our passions while uplifting others.And why stop at traditional modes of celebration when you can innovate? Jenna's knack for throwing unconventional parties, from Nicolas Cage-themed birthdays to Halloween adventures, is a breath of fresh air in the parenting space. Moreover, her candid discussions on boudoir photography offer a liberating narrative on self-love and confidence. If you're yearning for a dose of laughter mixed with heartfelt community stories, this episode with Jenna Liu is your gateway to a world where motherhood meets the entrepreneurial spirit head-on—without losing any sleep over it. Join us and the Cool Moms community for a rendezvous with authenticity, laughter, and unapologetic living.TopDogTours TopDogTours is your walking tour company. Available in New York, Philly, Boston, & Toronto!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

Embark on a journey of discovery with Rabbi Juli, whose story is as rich and complex as the tapestry of her faith. From an early age, Juli's life within the Reform Jewish community was profoundly shaped by the presence of female rabbis, leading her to transition from a budding diplomat to a dedicated rabbi. Our conversation unveils the deep historical roots of Reform Judaism and how Juli's personal experiences – from her b'nai mitzvah to her impactful time at with Hebrew Union College – influenced her spiritual calling.Navigating the challenges and rewards of the Hebrew Union College admissions process, Juli offers an intimate look into the preparation for rabbinical life. She candidly discusses the rigorous psychological assessments, the Hebrew competency exams, and the transformative first-year experience in Jerusalem. We also dissect the misconceptions surrounding conversion within the Reform movement, revealing its inherently welcoming nature. Juli's insight into the evolving role of modern rabbis further illuminates the possibilities that lie beyond traditional congregational leadership.As we explore Juli's multifaceted life, we touch on her meaningful engagement with the American Friends of the Parents Circle Family Forum. Julie also shares the personal side of her journey, including her approach to motherhood in New York City and the joyous celebration of Jewish traditions through her children's eyes. Each chapter of our dialogue with Julie serves as a testament to the enduring bond between a rabbi and their community, offering sage advice to anyone considering this sacred path.TopDogTours TopDogTours is your walking tour company. Available in New York, Philly, Boston, & Toronto!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

Embark on a nuanced exploration of a legend's legacy with us as we sift through the layers of history surrounding Walt Disney. Discover the truth behind the myths of anti-Semitism and learn about Disney's controversial rendezvous with Leni Riefenstahl, juxtaposed against the hallowed adoration many have for the magic of Disneyland. Reflect with us, Southern California natives who've grown up under the spell of Disney's cultural phenomenon, on how these controversies have shaped our perceptions and the broader narrative of this entertainment empire.Hollywood's golden era wasn't just about glitz and glamour; it was a time riddled with complex dance between race, politics, and the silver screen. From Clark Gable's stand with black actors to Disney's own entanglement with the Motion Picture Alliance, we unpack the intricate web of celebrity involvement in political movements. Delve into the lesser-known corners of Disney's history, such as his philanthropic efforts within the Jewish community and the iconic Sherman brothers' musical genius, as we strip away the layers of rumor to reveal the man behind the mouse.Confront the discomfort of history's racial insensitivities head-on in our candid discussion about "Song of the South" and other cultural artifacts. Join us as we grapple with the ethics of retroactively judging historical actions, examining Disney's wartime propaganda cartoons and controversial character depictions. It's a journey through the past that questions our modern perspectives and invites a thoughtful dialogue on the complexity of cultural legacy. Share your thoughts as we continue this important conversation on social media and Patreon, where the exploration of these intricate topics extends beyond the airwaves.TopDogTours TopDogTours is your walking tour company. Available in New York, Philly, Boston, & Toronto!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

Have you every been curious about what it is like to be a child actor on Broadway? In this captivating conversation with actor Dara Bloomfield, we explore stories of her Jewish upbringing, her journey from being a child actor in the Original Broadway Production of Ragtime: The Musical, to becoming a producer, and a mother. We journey alongside Dara as she shares her experiences, from growing up on Long Island to her intriguing interest in having an adult Bat Mitzvah.Traveling back to the 90s, we go behind the scenes of Broadway, shedding light on the challenges, triumphs, and unique experiences of a child performer. Dara shares captivating anecdotes about her audition for Ragtime, the dynamics of the acting world, and the personal growth that comes from a life on stage. We also delve into Dara's transition into adulthood, revisiting cherished shows, and unraveling the emotional journey that comes with it.In the final act, Dara opens up about the various roles she plays off-stage. As a producer, she shares her pride in founding "Growing Up Broadway" and her involvement in the Joe Iconis musical "Broadway Bounty Hunter". As a mother, she talks about the influence of becoming a parent has on her Jewish perspective and aspirations for her sons. Join us as we connect with Dara Bloomfield, filled with compelling stories, heartfelt discussions, and the joy of musical theater.Support the show

Guess who's at our Shebrew in the City table today? Amy Kritzer-Becker, the creative foodie behind the blog What Jew Wanna Eat, and co-owner of Modern Tribe. We take a ride down memory lane, exploring Amy's Jewish roots in Connecticut, her dynamic journey to culinary school, and ultimately, how she's shaking up the definition of modern Jewish culture. Learn how she spins tradition into innovation, bringing Jewish holidays to life in a contemporary world filled with unique Judaica and festive food.Fasten your seat belts as we embark on a lighthearted, mouthwatering exploration of Jewish cuisine. From Amy's favorite Ashkenazi dishes to the quirky blend of diverse cultures that have shaped Jewish food, we savor every flavor. We also dig into Amy's adventurous life as a food blogger and entrepreneur, her experiments with unique Jewish recipes, and her intriguing escapades in Puerto Rico. Be prepared to chuckle over hilarious anecdotes about food-themed costumes, theme parties, and Amy's tireless quest to perfect her cooking skills.Finally, we delve into the intimate side of Amy's life. Parenting, the joys of Jewish holidays, and the deeply personal traditions that radiate Jewish joy. The journey is not always rosy, as we candidly talk about the struggles faced by the Jewish community. We also dive into an open discussion about embracing Jewish identity, fostering it in our children, and the importance of being resilient in the face of anti-Semitism. So, join us in this heartwarming, endearing, and humorous conversation. Trust us, you won't want to miss it!TopDogTours TopDogTours is your walking tour company. Available in New York, Philly, Boston, & Toronto!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

Are you ready for eight days of lights, miracles, and mouth-watering food? We, Nicole and Patrick Kelly, invite you to embark on a captivating journey through the rich universe of Hanukkah. From historical treasures and bustle of present-day celebrations, this episode illuminates the essence of Hanukkah. We uncover layers of cultural significance and pull out fascinating tidbits about how the commercialization of Hanukkah influences our experience of the holiday today.Hanukkah isn't just about history; it's a vibrant tapestry of traditions and celebrations that season our lives with joy and connection. Embrace the warmth of candlelit blessings, the competitive thrill of a dreidel game, and the gastronomic adventure of savoring latkes and sufganiyot (jelly-filled donuts). From the excitement of our childhood memories to our discovering new holiday recipes, we bring Hanukkah straight into your living room. But that's not all, we also explore the less common but surprisingly delicious roast goose and discuss the evolving identity of Hanukkah in America.This episode also delves into the intriguing world of Christmukkah, a fusion of Christmas and Hanukkah traditions. Discover its 19th century German roots and how interfaith families today embrace it with warmth and creativity. We also shed light on the commercialization of the holiday season, from the rise of ornaments and decorations featuring both Jewish and Christmas symbols, and even the trend of Hanukkah advent calendars. Along our journey, we explore public menorah lightings, the controversial use of mascots, and the role of Mahjong in Hanukkah gift-giving. Finally, we share our thoughts on celebrating Hanukkah with loved ones and making the most of this special holiday. So, let's light up those menorah candles, spin the dreidel, and create beautiful Hanukkah memories together!TopDogTours TopDogTours is your walking tour company. Available in New York, Philly, Boston, & Toronto!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

Our first guest is...ME!!! I sit down with my husband Patrick and we talk about what I want to accomplish with this podcast, a bit about my family background, what it's like to be a millennial Jewish Mom and even what I wore to my Bat Mitzvah! Come and take this journey of revelation and self discovery with me as I look into what exactly it means to be Jewish in this modern crazy world. TopDogTours TopDogTours is your walking tour company. Available in New York, Philly, Boston, & Toronto!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show