Here I Am With Shai Davidai
by Shai Davidai
Here I Am with Shai Davidai explores the rising tide of anti-semitism through discussions with the top Jewish voices in this ongoing battle. Shai Davidai, a Professor at Columbia University, became well known for his viral speech against hate towards Jews on Columbia's campus. Since then, he has been an active voice in this controversy. Shai now brings the voices of hope together in this groundbreaking podcast.
Episodes
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"Who Are You and Why Are You in My Seat?" | An Exclusive Interview With Shai Davidai
In this special episode of Here I Am, social media manager Allison Fuller flips the script and interviews host Shai Davidai. Shai opens up about his journey from growing up in Israel and Romania to becoming one of the most visible voices fighting antisemitism after October 7th. He shares how a...
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I Had Meetings With Columbia's Leadership Before the Protests Started. Here's What I Saw Coming | Valerie Gerstein, Columbia Student & Plaintiff
In this episode of Here I Am, host Shai Davidai sits down with Jewish advocate, organizer, and "campus mom" Valerie Gerstein, who shares her firsthand experience confronting antisemitism as a graduate student at Columbia University. Valerie, a granddaughter of Holocaust survivors and lifelong...
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Queer Spaces Say "No Zionists Allowed." This Queer Activist Built a New One | Nate Shalev, Co-Founder of Shalom Dykes
In this episode of Here I Am, Shai sits down with Nate Shalev, co-founder of Shalom Dykes, an organization creating safe, inclusive, and joyful spaces for Jewish LGBTQ dykes. Nate shares their decade-long journey organizing with the NYC Dyke March, a community that once championed inclusion for...
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Jews Only Show Their Best in Crisis. We Must Learn to Do It in Peace | Rabbi Chaim Steinmetz
In this episode of Here I Am, host Shai Davidai sits down with Rabbi Chaim Steinmetz, senior rabbi of Congregation Kehilath Jeshurun (KJ) on Manhattan's Upper East Side and author of Despite Everything: A Chronicle of Jewish Resilience in the Aftermath of October 7th. Rabbi Steinmetz shares what…
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The Muslim Woman Who Stood for Israel and Lost Everything Because of It | Muslim Activist Anila Ali
Anila Ali, founder of the American Muslim Multi-Faith Women's Empowerment Council, joins Shai to share her journey as a Pakistani-American Muslim woman fighting extremism from within. From growing up in Pakistan's Sufi-influenced culture, to witnessing radical ideology infiltrate American mosques...
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Your Kid's Textbook May Be Lying to Them | Rebecca Schgallis & David Litman from CAMERA
In this episode of Here I Am with Shai Davidai, Shai sits down with Rebecca Schgallis and David Litman from CAMERA (Committee for Accuracy in Middle East Reporting and Analysis). They discuss how misinformation and ideological framing can shape public understanding of Israel and the United…
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Your Therapist May Be Making Your Jewish Trauma Worse | Trauma Specialist Dr. Miri Bar Halperin
In this episode of Here I Am with Shai Davidai, Shai sits down with clinical psychologist, trauma expert, and educator Miri Bar-Halpern for a candid conversation about trauma, identity, and what it means to keep showing up when the world feels unstable. Miri shares how her upbringing in Israel…
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Artists Who Share Every Opinion Are Hurting Their Own Work | Actor & Filmmaker Ari Frenkel
In this episode of Here I Am with Shai Davidai, Shai sits down with actor, writer, and filmmaker Ari Frenkel for a wide-ranging conversation about Jewish identity, comedy, creativity, and grief. Ari shares what it means to be an “October 8th Jew,” how his Israeli upbringing in America shaped his...
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I Stopped the Oppression Olympics and Started Talking About Birth Justice | Advocate Ilana Ygbi
In this episode of Here I Am with Shai Davidai, Shai sits down with Ilana Ybgi, a doula, life coach, and founder of the Crown Heights Birth Justice Project. Ilana describes herself as a “social justice Jew” and explains what social justice means to her: seeing what is broken, taking…
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The News Is Not Your Friend | Emmy-Nominated Journalist Jacki Karsh
In this episode of Here I Am with Shai Davidai, Shai sits down with Emmy-nominated journalist and Karsh Journalism Fellowship founder Jacki Karsh for a wide-ranging conversation about media, misinformation, and Jewish identity in a post–October 7 world. Karsh shares how moving from New York to…
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The Most Defamed Man Running the Anti-Defamation League | CEO Jonathan Greenblatt
In this episode of Here I Am with Shai Davidai, Shai speaks with Jonathan Greenblatt, CEO of the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), about antisemitism, Zionism, and the challenges facing the Jewish community after October 7. Greenblatt shares his personal Jewish story, including his family’s Holocaust...
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The Man Who Made Jews Laugh Again After October 7th | Satirist Ryan Turkienicz
In this engaging episode, Shai Davidai sits down with Ryan Turkienicz, co-founder of The Daily Brine, a satirical news platform often described as “the Jewish Onion,” focused on Israel and the Jewish diaspora. Ryan shares how his background in real estate investment and development, combined with...
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I Felt Helpless Watching Israel… So I Started a Business | 24-Year-Old Entrepreneur Justin Yehuda
In this inspiring episode, Shai Davidai sits down with Justin Yehuda, the 24-year-old founder and CEO of Iron Dome Coffee—a coffee subscription company that donates 18% of its profits to charities supporting Israel. Justin shares his journey from growing up in a Zionist community in New Jersey to...
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The Secret Dinners Connecting Jewish Hollywood | TV Writer & Producer Leslie Schapira
Join host Shai Davidai as he sits down with Leslie Schapira for an honest and lively conversation about Jewish identity, activism, and community. Leslie shares her journey from attending a progressive school to becoming a passionate advocate for Jewish causes, and discusses the importance of...
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The Rabbi of Thieves: I Meet Successful People Everyday and Here's What They Are Missing | Rabbi Moshe Mayerfeld
In this inspiring episode, host Shai Davidai sits down with Rabbi Moshe Mayerfeld, rabbi, educator, and co-founder of Kii NYC. Rabbi Mayerfeld shares his remarkable journey from a small town in New Jersey to Israel, the UK, and finally Manhattan, discussing his family’s refugee roots, his early...
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“I Succeeded in Hollywood Without Selling My Soul” | Actress Patricia Heaton
In this powerful episode, host Shai Davidai sits down with Patricia Heaton—Emmy-winning actress, writer, producer, and co-founder of the October 7th Coalition. Patricia opens up about her personal journey, faith, and what inspired her to become an outspoken advocate against antisemitism after...
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The West Is Losing Its Moral Compass | Columnist & Author Melanie Phillips
In this episode of "Here I Am," host Shai Davidai sits down with renowned British author, journalist, and broadcaster Melanie Phillips for a candid and thought-provoking conversation. Melanie shares her personal journey from growing up as a British Jew to relocating her center of gravity to…
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3 Million Emails Turn Outrage Into Action | Founder & Activist Fay
In this powerful episode, host Shai Davidai sits down with Fay, an activist and entrepreneur who founded the WhatsApp-based movement "Pens for Swords." Fay shares her journey from being a proud Jewish mother and business owner to leading a grassroots campaign mobilizing tens of thousands to fight...
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A Different Faith, the Same Struggle | Co-Founder of the Hindu American Foundation Suhag Shukla
In this episode, host Shai Davidai sits down with Suhag Shukla, Executive Director of the Hindu American Foundation. Suhag shares her personal journey growing up as a Hindu American, the challenges of confronting stereotypes, and her passion for advocacy and education. The conversation explores…
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Social Media Has Become Israel’s New Front Line | Founder Brian Spivak
In this episode, host Shai Davidai sits down with Brian Spivak, founder of Barzel Media, to discuss Brian’s journey from tech sales in Tel Aviv to Jewish advocacy and influencer marketing after October 7th. Brian shares how the events of October 7th transformed his identity and led him to support...
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Being Israeli at Harvard after October 7th | Educator & Researcher Barak Sella
In this episode, host Shai Davidai sits down with Barak Sella—Israeli-American educator, Harvard Kennedy School researcher, and expert on US-Israel relations. Barak shares his personal journey from growing up in Texas to becoming a leader in Israeli youth movements, and discusses his work on...
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The Moment Therapy Turned Political | Psychologists and Founders Jessica Zmood and Shelly Steinwurtzel
In this episode of "Here I Am," host Shai Davidai sits down with Jessica Zmood and Shelly Steinwurtzel, co-founders of Gesher Campus Care. They discuss their personal journeys as Jewish therapists, the impact of October 7th on the Jewish community, and the rise of anti-Semitism and traumatic...
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Understanding Iran Before It’s Too Late | UN Spokesperson and Journalist Jonathan Harounoff
Join host Shai Davidai as he sits down with Jonathan Harounoff, British journalist, international spokesperson for Israel’s Mission to the UN, and author of "Unveiled: Inside Iran’s Woman Life Freedom Revolt." Johnny shares his unique perspective as a British Jew of Persian descent, reflecting on...
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Here I Am Being Jewish | Actor, Singer, and Podcast Host Jonah Platt
In this episode, host Shai Davidai sits down with actor, advocate, and podcast host Jonah Platt for a heartfelt conversation about Jewish identity, community, and advocacy. Jonah shares his personal journey growing up in a deeply Jewish family, the importance of intentionality in passing down...
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The Hidden War On Jewish Professors | Writer and Professor Andrew Pessin
In this episode, host Shai Davidai sits down with Andrew Pessin, a philosophy professor at Connecticut College and author of several books on anti-Semitism and philosophy. Andrew shares his personal journey, including his "Herzl moment"—the realization that anti-Zionism is a form of...
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I Didn’t Plan to Go Viral. I Just Had to Speak | Vanessa Hidary
In this powerful episode, host Shai Davidai sits down with Vanessa Hidary, a Sephardic Jew, acclaimed spoken word artist, and Def Poetry Jam alum. Vanessa shares her journey of embracing her Jewish identity with pride and authenticity, breaking stereotypes in the spoken word scene. She discusses...
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The $1 Habit That Raised Millions For Charity | Dr. Johnathan Donath
In this inspiring episode, host Shai Davidai sits down with Dr. Johnathan Donath, entrepreneur and founder of Daily Giving. Dr. Donath shares his personal journey, from his family’s legacy of generosity to the life-changing moment that inspired him to launch Daily Giving—a platform that empowers...
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A 9 year Old's Experience After October 7th | A Very Personal Interview with Shai's Son | O. Davidai
In this special episode, host Shai Davidai sits down with his nine-year-old son, O. Davidai, for a heartfelt and insightful conversation. Together, they explore what it’s like to be a kid during challenging times, discussing topics such as identity, family, activism, and the impact of the...
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The Beauty Queen Who Served on Israel's Frontlines | Noa Cochva
In this powerful episode of “Here I Am,” host Shai Davidai sits down with Noa Cochva—Miss Israel 2021, IDF combat medic, and advocate. Noa shares her inspiring journey from growing up in a small Israeli village to serving as a combat medic and instructor in the IDF, including her experiences on…
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I Was Exiled From My Home And Branded a ‘Traitor' | Dalia Ziada (Part 2)
In part 2 of his conversation, host Shai Davidai sits down with Egyptian activist and scholar Dalia Ziada for an to discuss her personal journey, the complexities of Middle Eastern politics, and the aftermath of October 7th. Dalia shares her experiences facing backlash in Egypt for condemning…
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I Risked Everything To Stand With Israel | Dalia Ziada (Part 1)
In this powerful episode, host Shai Davidai sits down with Dalia Ziada—an Egyptian writer, civil rights activist, and outspoken critic of extremism. Dalia shares her personal journey from growing up in a conservative Egyptian society to becoming a leading voice for peace, justice, and democratic...
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The Fight to Save Israel’s Mental Health | Maayan Aviv
In this episode, host Shai Davidai sits down with Maayan Aviv, CEO of American Friends of Natal, an Israeli NGO specializing in trauma treatment, PTSD, and community resilience. Maayan shares her personal journey from her upbringing between Israel and the US to leading organizations focused on...
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I’m Not White. I’m Not Brown. I’m Jewish | Dr. Mijal Bitton
In this thought-provoking episode, host Shai Davidai sits down with Dr. Mijal Bitton—Torah teacher, sociologist of American Jewry, podcast host, and co-founder of the Downtown Minyan in New York City. Together, they explore the complexities of Jewish identity in America, challenging the idea of...
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The Lawyer Taking Iran and Hamas to Court | Gary Osen
In this episode of "Here I Am," host Shai Davidai interviews Gary Osen, managing partner at Osen LLC, about his remarkable legal career focused on terror financing and Holocaust-era restitution. Gary shares insights from his family's history and his father's escape from Nazi Germany, discusses…
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How I Became a Target for Telling the Truth | Olivia Reingold
In this episode, journalist Olivia Reingold from The Free Press joins as the guest. Olivia discusses her personal journey with Jewish identity, reflecting on generational changes, feelings of guilt, and the impact of recent events like October 7th. She shares her background as a former podcast...
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From Festivals to Frontlines | Matisyahu SIngs For His People
Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Matisyahu joins the show to discuss his personal and spiritual journey, from his rebellious youth and exploration of different branches of Judaism to his evolution as an artist and individual. He shares insights on identity, faith, and how pivotal life...
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Jews Don’t Have the Luxury of Neutrality | Gregg Roman
In this episode, Shai Davidai sits down with Gregg Roman, Executive Director of the Middle East Forum, to discuss the complexities of the Middle East and its impact on U.S. foreign policy. Gregg shares insights from his personal and professional journey, explores the intersection of Jewish and...
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Can Storytelling Save the Next Generation? | Daniella Rabbani
In this episode, Shai sits down with actress, singer, and “Mom Curious” host Daniella Rabbani. She shares her journey growing up as a Modern Orthodox Jew, her deep pride in her Jewish identity, and how her family’s history shaped her perspective. Daniella discusses her transition from a religious...
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“The Golden Era of American Jewry Is Over” | Jonny Daniels
In this episode, Shai interviews Jonny Daniels, founder of the From the Depths Foundation, dedicated to preserving Holocaust memory and supporting survivors. Jonny shares his journey from growing up in London to making Aliyah at 18 and joining the IDF paratroopers. He discusses his deep…
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From Anonymous Graffiti to Worldwide Fame | Nitzan Mintz & Dede Bandaid
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1.5 Million Followers Later | My Jewish TikTok Story with Melinda Strauss
Consider DONATING to help us continue and expand our media efforts. If you cannot at this time, please share this video with someone who might benefit from it. We thank you for your support! https://givebutter.com/HIA50thEpisode COMING SOON BUY MERCH! SUPPORT ME ON PATREON!...
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Get Up, Rise Up, Kumu: A Conversation with Yonatan Shimriz
In this “Here I Am: Summer of Hope” special episode, Shai interviews an impressive young activist with a moving story of heartbreak, hope, and transforming tragedy into leadership. Yonatan Shimriz’s brother was kidnapped on October 7 and later tragically killed in Gaza by soldiers who thought he...
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Get Up, Rise Up, Kumu: A Conversation with Yonatan Shimriz
In this “Here I Am: Summer of Hope” special episode, Shai interviews an impressive young activist with a moving story of heartbreak, hope, and transforming tragedy into leadership. Yonatan Shimriz’s brother was kidnapped on October 7 and later tragically killed in Gaza by soldiers who thought he...
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October 8: Unbiased Discretion Advised | EP 52 Wendy Sachs
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Former Sudanese Child Slave's thoughts on #Genocide | EP 51 Simon Deng Pt. 2 of 2
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Former child slave's thoughts on #israel | EP 50 Simon Deng Pt. 1
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"You're not #Jewish so what are you fighting for?" / EP 49 Dan Khan
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A very personal interview with Shai's wife | EP 48 Yardenne Greenspan
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The Most Hated Imam? Sheikh Drammeh on Surviving Fatwas| EP 47 Sheikh Musa Drammeh Pt 2 of 2
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Imam Reveals: The Koran Supports Jewish Connection to Israel! | EP 46 Sheikh Musa Drammeh
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About this show
Here I Am with Shai Davidai explores the rising tide of anti-semitism through discussions with the top Jewish voices in this ongoing battle.
Shai Davidai, a Professor at Columbia University, became well known for his viral speech against hate towards Jews on Columbia's campus.
Since then, he has been an active voice in this controversy. Shai now brings the voices of hope together in this groundbreaking podcast.
Hosted by
Shai Davidai
Categories