The Rabbi & the Other Guy

Are Jews an Oppressed People?

In our newest episode, Rabbi Septimus and Dr. Schocket are joined by Jackie Niremberg, Anti-Defamation League (ADL) Austin Regional Director, to discuss and break down the question - 'are Jews oppressed?' Together, they explore the complexities of Jewish identity, the nuances of anti-Semitism, and the challenges facing Jewish communities today. 
 
Read more: 
https://ejewishphilanthropy.com/the-american-jewish-community-needs-a-new-interfaith-strategy/
https://ejewishphilanthropy.com/keep-faith-why-the-jewish-community-shouldnt-abandon-interfaith-engagement-with-mainline-protestant-churches/

Jews & Halloween

Are Jews allowed to celebrate Halloween? What even really is Halloween? In this episode, Rabbi Septimus and Dr. Schocket sit down with Rabbi Eleanor Steinman, Temple Beth Shalom's Senior Rabbi, to discuss all the (not so) spooky details. 

Do Jews Have a Place in Your Political Party? Part Two

As the election draws near, Rabbi Septimus and Dr. Matt Schocket sit down with Jay Rubin, former CEO of Shalom Austin and a voice in the Republican community. In this compelling episode, they discuss the intersection of Jewish identity and Republican ideals, the policy matters that resonate with Jewish voters, and what the upcoming election could mean for Jews in the party. 
 

Do Jews Have a Place in Your Political Party? Part One

With the election fast approaching, Rabbi Septimus and Dr. Matt Schocket welcome former Austin Mayor and prominent Democrat Steve Adler for an insightful discussion. Together, they explore the role of Jewish voters within the Democratic party, the key issues at stake, and how Jewish values align with political platforms. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation that delves into the future of Jewish political influence.

October 7 - One Year Later Part Two

In Part Two of our "One Year Later" episode, Rabbi Septimus and Dr. Schocket sit down with Shelly Shwartz, Israeli-American Council Texas Regional Director. Together, they discuss the growing Israeli community in Austin and how the Austin Jewish community can continue to move forward since October 7. 

What is the Significance of Yizkor? Part One

Rabbi Neil Blumofe, Senior Rabbi at Congregation Agudas Achim, joins our hosts in our 12th episode to tell us all about Yizkor. What does it mean, and why is it important? Be sure to stay tuned for Part Two, coming out in just a couple of weeks! 

October 7 - One Year Later Part One

As we approach the one-year mark since the tragic October 7 attacks in the Gaza Envelope, join your hosts for a powerful conversation with Michal Ilai, Senior Israel Educator at Shalom Austin. Together, they explore the meaning of Jewish peoplehood, resilience, and cultural pride in the face of adversity.
Whether deeply connected to the Jewish community or seeking insight into recent world events, this episode offers a thoughtful and enriching perspective you don't want to miss.

Questions We've Always Wanted to Ask an Orthodox Rabbi

Rabbi Mendy Levertov, Director/Spiritual Leader of Chabad Young Jewish Professionals of Austin, joins us in episode 10 to answer all the questions our hosts have ever wanted to ask an Orthodox rabbi. Plus, we get to know his brand of "High Energy Judaism." 

Do Jewish Students Feel Safe on Campus?

We're back! In our 9th episode, Rabbi Septimus and Dr. Schocket sit down with Rabbi Stephanie Max, Executive Director of Texas Hillel, and Jeffrey Harberg, a current junior at the University of Texas, to discuss what life on campus has been like since October 7. 

Summer & Sabbatical

Before they head into their mid-season break, our hosts sit down and chat about just about everything - work, sports, summer camp, and Rabbi Septimus’ sabbatical (and what that even is). We’ll be back in the Fall!