As a young Jewish adult, finding a strong sense of identity while navigating the complexities of modern life can often feel like a challenge. From cultural traditions to balancing personal aspirations with the expectations of community, Jewish teens and young adults can sometimes struggle to find resources that feel authentic and empowering.

I've found over the years that podcasts provide an excellent way of dealing with issues of identity, spirituality, and personal growth.

In this article, I'll be writing about three podcasts that have had a profound impact on my life as a young Jewish person: Grounded in the Real You by Tanya Andrusier, Being Jewish with Jonah Platt, and Jewish Teen Talk. These podcasts, though diverse in approach, all help me to better understand my own Jewish identity, and each offers a unique means by which we can live our lives as Jewish young adults in a world that is rapidly transforming.

1. Grounded in the Real You by Tanya Andrusier: A Journey Toward Self-Discovery

The first podcast that has had a lasting effect on me is Grounded in the Real You, hosted by Tanya Andrusier. Tanya's journey is particularly relevant to me, as she started out as someone I knew personally and then transformed into a mentor and friend whom I deeply respect. Listening to her podcast has been a very personal thing because Tanya's teachings and stories have a different meaning when you've seen her path and growth up close.

Tanya is a Jewish educator and guide who shares wisdom on self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and spiritual authenticity. What's so remarkable about this podcast is that Tanya doesn't just discuss esoteric ideas or philosophical theory; she integrates deeply personal and practical approaches to living a grounded, purposeful life.

What has made this experience even more special for me is that I've had the privilege of knowing Tanya outside of her role as a mentor. She has grown over time from someone I considered an acquaintance to a friend whom I admire and look up to for inspiration. When I listen to her podcast, it's like Tanya is speaking directly to me, discussing the issues and problems I'm facing as a young Jewish adult. Her message resonates more because I know how much she believes in what she is teaching and how much she genuinely cares about people.

One of the dominant motifs of Grounded in the Real You is the meeting point of personal growth and Jewish spirituality. As someone who has been trying to become closer to my Jewish religion, Tanya's book is such a breath of fresh air.

She doesn't merely offer abstract concepts of Judaism or of Jewish law; instead, she applies the teachings to real problems that young Jewish adults face. For instance, many of her episodes discuss how Jewish wisdom can aid us in coping with anxiety, peer pressure, and the overwhelming feeling of self-doubt—struggles that are particularly relevant to teenagers and young adults in the present day.

Personally, Grounded in the Real You has been a source of light. It has shown me that existing as a young Jewish woman does not need to be a tug-of-war between my Judaism and my very own self. Tanya’s episodes constantly remind me that embracing both is not only possible but essential. I’ve learned how to combine self-love and self-respect with my faith, understanding that it’s okay to be authentically me, while also remaining deeply rooted in Jewish traditions.

Tanya's emphasis on emotional balance and authenticity has been particularly valuable as I navigate my own path as a Jewish adult. She instructs how to move beyond the traps that may arise from societal expectation and how to stay connected to your inner truth through her anecdotes. Every episode is not just a lesson in Jewish spirituality but a call to action to live a life of purpose and emotional clarity.

For anyone who is interested in taking the leap into these life-altering conversations, Tanya's podcast is available on Spotify. The self-help tactics, in addition to Tanya's understanding of Jewish teachings, make this a must-listen for any young Jewish adult struggling to find a balance between cultural heritage and personal life. Here is one of my personal favorite videos by Tanya!

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2. Being Jewish with Jonah Platt: Exploring Jewish Identity Through Conversation

The second podcast that has been so influential to me is Being Jewish with Jonah Platt. Hosted by Jonah Platt, an actor and activist, this podcast is a thought-provoking exploration of Jewish identity in the contemporary world. What I adore about this podcast is the openness of its approach to Jewish living. Jonah welcomes guests from all over the world, including performers, academics, activists, and other Jewish thought leaders, to talk about what it means to be Jewish today.

That which makes Being Jewish so unique to me is that it talks about the multitude of Jewish experiences. There's a sense of each episode being a conversation between friends trying to figure out what it means to be part of this complicated and wonderful community. The guests Jonah invites onto his program all have various Jewish backgrounds—some are observant, some have more secular Jewish customs.

This allows me to understand that there isn't one "right" way of being Jewish. Instead, Jewish identity is malleable, evolving, and highly individualized.

As a young adult discovering my own Jewish path, Being Jewish has taught me that it is okay to be Jewish in more ways than one. The podcast presents so many different perspectives on Jewish living that I have come to understand that being Jewish is not necessarily about religious observance. It is also about culture, family, history, and the personal way that each of us contributes to making the Jewish community what it is.

Listening to Jonah talk about topics like Jewish activism, interfaith relationships, and the role of the younger generation in the future of Jewish life has been nothing short of eye-opening. It's led me to think about how I can engage more with my Jewish identity in new and meaningful ways. Whether it is through volunteering, being involved in Jewish advocacy, or merely engaging with other Jews, this podcast has pushed me to broaden my own definition of what it means to be involved with the Jewish community.

For anyone who wishes to know more about Jewish identity through a multitude of voices, I would highly suggest listening to Being Jewish with Jonah Platt on Apple Podcasts. Each episode features a new voice, and it contains so much great information for young Jews seeking to discover their identity in the world today. Here is one of my personal favorite videos by Jonah!

3. Jewish Teen Talk: Navigating Life as a Jewish Teen in a Changing World

The third podcast that has been so instrumental in educating my Jewish identity is Jewish Teen Talk. What is so unique about this podcast is that it is specifically for Jewish teenagers, and it provides a platform for young people to discuss issues that directly impact their lives. Hosted by a group of Jewish teenagers themselves, Jewish Teen Talk discusses topics such as mental health, relationships, spirituality, and personal growth, all through the lens of Jewish teachings and values.

My favorite aspect of Jewish Teen Talk is how realistic and relatable it is. The hosts share their personal struggles, accomplishments, and questions, and it makes the podcast just feel so authentic. As a young Jewish adult, it is comforting to know that individuals my age are experiencing the same struggles and that it is okay to have questions and explore my faith without judgment or feeling inferior.

The podcast also delves into issues that many Jewish teens struggle with, such as balancing family expectations and personal desires, friendships, and social media stress. The podcast confronts these issues head-on in every episode and gives insightful and compassionate advice drawn from Jewish teachings. For example, on one of the shows, the hosts discuss how to remain plugged into Judaism in a secular society—a topic that resonates very closely with me as I try to balance my Jewish identity with school, work, and social commitments.

Listening to Jewish Teen Talk has helped me understand that I am not alone in my struggles and that my journey of Jewish self-discovery is one that I share with many others. The podcast is a safe space for Jewish teens to talk about their feelings and problems, and it helps establish a sense of belonging and community.

If you're a Jewish teen looking for a safe and relatable space to discuss your experiences, I highly recommend checking out Jewish Teen Talk on Spotify. This podcast provides much-needed space for Jewish teens to find their voices and explore their identities in an open and accepting environment. Here is one of my favorite videos by Shua and Bashie Naparstek.

Connecting the Dots: The Power of Jewish Identity and Community

Each of these podcasts—Grounded in the Real You, Being Jewish with Jonah Platt, and Jewish Teen Talk—has offered me its own lessons about the complexities of Jewish identity. What is so fascinating is how they are all connected to one another around a single concept: the imperative to assert and explore our Jewish heritage in manners authentic to who we are as individuals.

From Tanya Andrusier's podcast, I've learned the value of grounding myself both in my Jewish self but also in my inner self. From Jonah Platt, I've learned to appreciate the diversity of Jewish experiences and the numerous ways Jewish identity can exist. And from Jewish Teen Talk, I've learned a sense of community with others who share my struggles and aspirations, and a reminder that we are all part of one larger Jewish family.

Together, these podcasts have helped me navigate the challenges of adolescence as a Jewish teen in the modern world. They have provided me with an emotional, spiritual, and intellectual toolbox that I can draw upon as I continue to explore my Jewish identity.

If you are a Jewish teen or young adult, I highly recommend that you give these podcasts a listen and reflect on how they relate to your own life. Whether you are seeking spiritual guidance, cultural connection, or a sense of community, these podcasts offer amazing resources for learning more about yourself and your Jewish identity.

Conclusion

In a world that is constantly changing, it's comforting to have sources of direction that keep us grounded in who we are. For me, these three podcasts have been just that—a source to find my Jewish identity, connect with others, and learn important lessons about how to be alive as a young Jewish adult.

They have encouraged me to embrace my faith with pride, while also exploring the many different ways Jewish identity can manifest. Whether you’re navigating your own journey as a young Jewish person or simply curious about Jewish life, these podcasts offer a wealth of knowledge and inspiration that can help guide your path forward.

Check out the following links to listen to these podcasts:

• Grounded in the Real You
• Being Jewish with Jonah Platt
• Jewish Teen Talk