Transcending Jewish Trauma with Jo Kent Katz
Clarissa digs into a topic that has come up in many of the conversations on this podcast; Intergenerational Trauma. The study of this phenomenon is relatively new, but it’s resonated with many Jews whose ancestors’ survived violence and persecution. To take a closer look at this, she talks to Jo Kent Katz, a Therapist, Ritualist, and Political Educator. In 2020, Jo launched a website called “Transcending Jewish Trauma” to help Jews unpack and heal from inherited unconscious beliefs and behaviors associated with ancestral trauma. Included on the website is a map that explores the many manifestations of collective trauma experienced by white Ashkenazi Jews living in the US.
Embracing Yiddish Language, Theater, Culture, and History, with Rokhl Kafrissen
Clarissa talks to Rokhl Kafrissen, a Yiddish cultural critic and playwright. You may know her from her column in Tablet Magazine, Rokhl’s Golden City, or her blog, Yiddish Praxis. Rokhl and Clarissa talk about her venture into the world of Yiddish, and what it's like to fill the gap in her knowledge of our own history. They also talk about Rokhl’s new play that explores the ethical dilemmas that can show up when collecting Yiddish folklore. This conversation was recorded in the summer of 2020.
White Jews & Race w/Dr. Elliot Ratzman
Clarissa talks to Dr. Elliot Ratzman, a professor in Jewish studies, race, and social justice in religion. They discuss the contemporary intersection of white Jews and race, including the questions you weren’t sure how to ask, like “What race are white Jews?”, “How should they partner with other minorities for civil rights?”, and “How does modern antisemitism come into play?” Dr. Ratzman shares the history behind these questions, the importance of self-identification, and his thoughts on Jewish ethics in regards to racial justice.
American Jewish Fiction w/Heather Paul
Clarissa shares the very first conversation she recorded for the podcast and it’s all about American Jewish Fiction. She talks to rabbinical student (and book lover) Heather Paul about how Jewish novels inspired her to become a professional Jew, and we try to answer the question, “what IS Jewish fiction?” Stay tuned to hear high praise for some amazing books.