Federation CJA 360 Podcast: The Pulse of Montreal’s Jewish Community
Welcome to Federation CJA 360 Podcast.Here, we dive into conversations that highlight the stories, challenges, and successes of the fabric of Montreal’s diverse Jewish community. Through engaging discussions, news reports, and special guests, the 360 Podcast informs, inspires, and connects listeners to the evolving Jewish experience in Montreal.The podcast team, including Federation CJA President and CEO Yair Szlak, producer Glenn J. Nashen, reporter Jordan Stoopler and Paola Samuel, will engage with influencers, experts and leaders covering a vast array of topics from campus life, antisemitism, allyship, all things Israel, and of course events and programs powered by Federation CJA. We...
October 8 Comes to Montreal + Agents of Change | Episode 43

In this episode :
The producer of the documentary October 8 comes to Montreal to support our students, | Community leader Sylvain Abitibol is the 1st guest of our new segment “Agents of Change” and a taste of Passover | Federation CJA 360 Podcast Episode 43
The Pulse of Montreal's Jewish Community.
Mission Possible: Politics, Passions, and Protests | Episode 42
In this episode: Elections are coming... Missions to Israel are back... So, you want to be a doctor?... Kanye West protest musical… Amy Fish launches One in Six Million... | Federation CJA 360 Podcast - Episode 42
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The Pulse of Montreal's Jewish Community.
News Edition February 2025 | Episode 41
In this episode: Yair Szlak pays homage to the Bibas family, we connect with a leader of Montreal’s Ethiopian Jewish community, we bring you details of a new round of funding for young entrepreneurs and a big honour for human rights activist Irwin Cotler |Federation CJA 360 Podcast Episode 41
The Pulse of Montreal's Jewish Community.
Fighting Jew hatred on campus, Gil Troy’s newest book on defending the Zionist dream, and survivor George Reinitz on the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz | Federation CJA 360 Podcast Episode 40
In this Campus Confidential episode:
Columbia professor and outspoken critic Shai Davidai gives us insight on the fight against Jew Hatred on campus, Gil Troy is with us to talk about his new book "To Resist the Academic Intifada” and Shoah survivor George Reinitz on the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz | Federation CJA 360 Podcast Episode 40
The Pulse of Montreal's Jewish Community.
Hillel Neuer’s Protests, Irwin Cotler’s UN Battle and Commemorating Jews from Arab Lands | Federation CJA 360 Podcast Episode 39
In this episode:
Meet news reporter Paola Samuel, learn about EMSB Holocaust Education, hear from Hillel Neueur, Shai DeLuca and Irwin Cotler, commemorating Jews from Arab Lands, an update from Arie Levy in Beersheva and One More Thing from Yair.In this episode: Meet news reporter Paola Samuel, learn about EMSB Holocaust
Education, hear from Hillel Neuer, Shai DeLuca and Irwin Cotler, commemorating
Jews from Arab Lands, an update from Are Levy in Be'er Sheva and One More
Thing from Yair.
The Pulse of Montreal's Jewish Community.
Meet our new JAFI fellow at Hillel | Federation CJA 360 Podcast Episode 38
In this episode: A chat with Ronen Nazarov, the new Jewish Agency For Israel (JAFI) fellow at Hillel Montreal, The Dalfen Fellowship and why it could be a fit for your teen and insights on human rights activist’s Natan Sharansky’s visit to Montreal.
The Pulse of Montreal's Jewish Community.
Meet Our Newest Special Emissary | Federation CJA 360 Podcast Episode 37
In this episode: Meet Emmanuel Trau, our new emissary, in discussion with Yair. Our news team catches you up on recent events. Plus, a Life & Legacy moment with Joseph Davis. And reflections and thoughts in One More Thing with Yair
The Pulse of Montreal's Jewish Community.
Empowering Students on Campus | Federation CJA 360 Podcast Episode 36
The October 2024 news episode of the Federation CJA 360 Podcast brings you an excellent speech by Michal Cotler-Wunsh, Israel’s special envoy for combating antisemitism, who addressed a wrapped audience of Hillel students. Peace actifist and social media influencer Loay Alshareef is also featured. Alshareef was still in town after speaking at the Federation CJA Annual General Meeting, last month, and also took time to speak to Hillel.
The Pulse of Montreal's Jewish Community.
The Time is Now | Federation CJA 360 Podcast Episode 35
In this episode, Federation CJA joins the Montreal Jewish community to mark one year since the October 7th terror attacks. Eitan Chitayat – branding professional, activist, social media influencer, and father – stops by for an extended conversation with Glenn and Dan. And podcast reporter Jordan Stoopler reports on a webinar about fighting antisemitism for Jewish kids in non-Jewish day schools.
The Pulse of Montreal's Jewish Community.
News Edition September 2024 | Episode 34
Former Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett takes aim at the current Israeli government. Pop star and Jewish activist Montana Tucker takes on antisemites. Federation CJA’s AGM. A strongly-worded letter to the editor. And Aldo’s David Bensadoun helps kick off the Networks campaign..
The Pulse of Montreal's Jewish Community.
All In For Community | Federation CJA 360 Podcast Episode 33
A preview of our conversation with popstar, singer, dancer, and influencer Montana Tucker. She talks about her Judaism, her activism, and her love of Israel. Combined Jewish Appeal campaign chair Heather Adelson talks about the new campaign. FCJA’s director of Campus and Advocacy assures Jewish students of a better year ahead.
The Pulse of Montreal's Jewish Community.
A Summer of Resilience | Federation CJA 360 Podcast Episode 32
Hear the story of the 200+ Israeli kids who came to Montreal for a summer of respite and resilience. Adrienne Gold Davis of Momentum talks about empowering Jewish women to change the world. And get to know past and present chairs of the March 4 Jerusalem.
Don't forget to subscribe to ensure you never miss an issue!
The Pulse of Montreal's Jewish Community.
Academics Against Antisemitism | Federation CJA 360 Podcast Episode 31
In this episode: the Montreal Academic Network Against Antisemitism – Yair Szlak talks with two of the founders, Dr. Ada Sinacore and BJEC’s Dr. Karen Gazith. Plus, a feature on the first ever Pan-Canadian Educators’ Mission to Israel; Joining the FCJA team; and Kleyn Kabaret, a Montreal-based band keeping a Yiddish tradition alive.
The Pulse of Montreal's Jewish Community.
Standing against Jew-hatred online. And FoodGuyMTL | Federation CJA 360 Podcast Episode 30
In this bonus episode, Federation CJA and CIJA announcer the launch of Désapprendre l'Antisémitisme. Self-Care Expert, TV Contributor, Speaker, Author and Podcast Host Erica Diamond talks about her participation in the first Voices for Truth global influencer summit to combat antisemitism. And Dustin Gilman, one of Montreal most influential food bloggers, talks about the challenges faced by Jewish restaurateurs.
Don't forget to subscribe to ensure you never miss an issue!
The Pulse of Montreal's Jewish Community.
Nurturing young entrepreneurs. Montrealers in Israel. | Federation CJA 360 Podcast Episode 29
Katherine Korakakis is the manager of Federation CJA’s ProMontreal Entrepreneurs program, a mentor-driven accelerator helping young entrepreneurs build and strengthen their business roots in Montreal. Yair Szlak speaks with her, and with Jonathan Abitbol of Mobispaw pet grooming, a beneficiary of the program. And From Israel: we check in with participants of Birthright Powered by Federation CJA; with our man in Be'er Sheva, Arie Levy, and with the Association des Médecins Juifs du Québec (AMJQ) about their recent mission to Israel.
The Pulse of Montreal's Jewish Community.
News Edition June 2024 | Episode 28
CIJA and Federation CJA stage a protest outside Montreal City Hall calling for more concrete action on antisemitism from Mayor Valerie Plante, Rudy Rochman, IDF reservist and social media superstar comes to Montreal, and a resilience worker and evacuee from northern Israel visits Federation CJA
The Pulse of Montreal's Jewish Community.
Investing in our Future: Priorities and Strategies for Jewish Community Safety, Resilience, and Growth | Federation CJA 360 Podcast Episode 27
It continues to be a tense time for the Montreal Jewish community. Glenn J. Nashen talked with Federation CJA President and CEO Yair Szlak about Federation’s priorities and strategies for safety in the community now and moving forward.
The Pulse of Montreal's Jewish Community.
News Edition May 2024 | Episode 26
In this episode, we’re introducing a brand new News Edition for a more news-style format. Join us once a month with host Glenn J. Nashen and his team as they cover news and events pertaining to Federation CJA and its impact partners.
Today we’ll hear a story about one of Federation CJA’s newer impact partners: HaGal Sheli, an organization that empowers troubled youth in Israel. How they do it is amazing.
Plus, our own Jordan Stoopler went out to cover events for what we’re calling the three yoms: Yom HaShoah...
Fighting Back, Legally | Federation CJA 360 Podcast Episode 25
In this episode, we talk about using the law and the courts to fight back. Meet lawyer Neil Oberman who is STANDING UP for the Montreal Jewish community and helping fight against the scourge of antisemitism and Jew-hatred through the courts.
We’ll also hear an exclusive, behind the scenes interview with ONE LIFE film director James Hawes.
We’re happy to welcome our newest reporter Dan Laxer to the podcast. Dan is a freelance content provider whom Montrealers know from his years at CJAD Radio, and his contributions to The Suburban and CTV. Dan will...
Unveiling the Jewish Student Landscape and Advocacy Strategies | Federation CJA 360 Podcast Episode 24
Continuing our vital conversation on Israel Advocacy, we are honoured to welcome back Dr. Mijal Bitton for the second part of this enlightening series, brought to you by the B'Yachad CEGEP Fellowship program.
In this episode, explore the complexities of the Jewish student landscape on campuses. Discover the most effective strategies to counteract false claims against Israel, fostering an environment of understanding and resilience. Our esteemed moderators, Avishai Infeld and Jenna Yaffe, bring their unique insights and experiences to the table, making this a must-listen for anyone seeking guidance in navigating difficult dialogues and conflicts.
...
Insights & Initiatives: Hate Crimes Training, Gap Year Adventures, and Communal Collaborations. | Federation CJA 360 Podcast Episode 23
Welcome to the Federation CJA 360 podcast. In this latest episode, join Yair as he sits down with Eta Yudin, Quebec Vice President, CIJA, to explore the crucial topic of Hate crimes training for prosecutors. It's a deep dive into an issue directly affecting our community.
But that's not all – we'll also introduce you to one of our shinshinim, an Israeli student immersing themselves in the vibrant culture of Montreal during their gap year. Hear their unique perspective and experiences firsthand.
Plus, our dedicated reporter Leah Morali brings you the latest scoop on a groundbreaking partnership ta...
Dr. Mijal Bitton: How to Educate Ourselves in Advocating for Israel | Federation CJA 360 Podcast Episode 22
Welcome to this week's episode of the Federation CJA 360 podcast where we tell the stories that resonate deeply within our community. In this installment, we are honored to host Dr. Mijal Bitton, a distinguished Research Fellow at the Shalom Hartman Institute of North America, and a true leader in our midst as the Rosh Kehilla of the Downtown Minyan in New York City.
Our moderator, Federation CJA antisemitism consultant Karen Payne will focus on How to Educate Ourselves in Advocating for Israel. But that's not all. Our reporter Leah Morali brings us a poignant segment titled "Heroes,"...
Building Bridges: Exploring Montreal's Impact in Be'er Sheva with Shani Dotan| Federation CJA 360 Podcast Episode 21
Join Yair in an engaging conversation with Shanie Dotan, Director of International Relations for
the Municipality of Be'er Sheva. Explore the significant impact of the Montreal Jewish
community's twinning with Be'er Sheva and the broader B'nai Shimon region, gaining insights
into our involvement and influence in that area.
Additionally, stay tuned for this month's News Capsule featuring Leah Morali's report on former
Member of Knesset Shirly Pinto's recent visit to Montreal. And as always, we'll conclude with
"One More Thing" from Yair.
The Pulse of Montreal's Jewish Community.
Physicians Rally Against Antisemitism | Federation CJA 360 Podcast Episode 20
Join Yair in discussion with Drs. Guila Delouya and Lior Bibas, members of the recently
established Association de Médecins Juifs du Québec. This pioneering initiative is
dedicated to combating antisemitism within Montreal and larger Quebec medical
community.
Leah Morali prepares the latest news capsule, focusing on Jewish Disability Awareness
Acceptance and Inclusion month and brings a recap of Montreal’s recent solidarity
mission to Israel and Steve Rabinovitch talks about upcoming Birthright and Onward
teen travel opportunities to Israel.
The Pulse of Montreal's Jewish Community.
The War on Words. Breaking Down Antisemitism in our Community | Federation CJA 360 Podcast Episode 19
Uncover the unsettling rise of antisemitism as we delve into Episode 19 of the Federation CJA 360 Podcast. In a thought-provoking conversation, Yair sits down with Karen Payne (Federation CJA’s Strategic Advisor – Antisemitism Advocacy), to explore the ongoing war of words in Montreal amidst the hundred-day aftermath of terror attacks by Hamas. Gain insights into understanding and combating the spillover of antisemitism beyond university campuses.
The Pulse of Montreal's Jewish Community.
Israel at War - Alexandre Look’s Story | Federation CJA 360 Podcast Episode 18
Israel at War: Alexandre Look’s Story | Federation CJA 360 Podcast Episode 18
Two months after the horrific terrorist attacks by Hamas against Israel we hear the personal and heart-wrenching story of Alexandre Look. Yair speaks with Raquel Look, as she shares the painful story of her son who was murdered by terrorists at the Nova Music Festival for Peace.
We also have a news capsule from the Jewish community’s rally on Parliament Hill, an update from our twin community of Beersheva - B’nai Shimon, and Chanukah greetings from Federa...
Dealing With Antisemitism On Campus | Federation CJA 360 Podcast Episode 17
Israel continues to battle against Hamas terrorists, and a different kind of fight
is going on here in Montreal, especially on our college and university campuses.
Today we’re looking at the scourge of antisemitism that is bubbling over on our
streets and on CEGEP and university campuses. What can we do about it? How
can students deal with the situation? Who should they turn to?
We will be in conversation with Naomi Mazer, Director of Hillel Montreal, as well
as two university students, Ora Bar from Concordia and Claire Frankel from
Special Edition - Message from Montreal Police Chief Fady Dagher | Federation CJA 360 Podcast Episode 16
Eta Yudin, Vice President for CIJA Quebec and Yair Szlak, President and CEO for Federation CJA welcome Montreal Police Chief Fady Dagher to their offices for a special message to the Montreal Jewish community.
The Pulse of Montreal's Jewish Community.
Special Edition - Emergency Briefing on the Situation in Israel | Federation CJA 360 Podcast Episode 15
On this special edition of the podcast, we will be sharing a recording of our recent emergency briefing, as we understand the importance of staying informed during these trying times. Federation CJA remains dedicated to closely monitoring the situation in Israel. In the recording, we were joined by Yair Szlak, President and CEO of Federation CJA; Yifat Zailer, a Family member of kidnapped victims, Ayelet Nahmias-Verbin; Ayelet Nahmias-Verbin, Chair of the Jewish Agency Victims of Terror Fund; Arie Levy, Director General of Federation CJA Israel; and more. This briefing provides valuable insights and live updates directly from Israel.<...
Special Edition - Israel Emergency Fund | Federation CJA 360 Podcast Episode 14
Within 24 hours following the horrific attacks on Oct. 7, Jewish Federations of North America and Federation CJA launched an urgent, unprecedented appeal in order to support the Israeli people at this crucial moment in history. Here in Montreal the Federation activated an Israel Emergency Fund.
Federation CJA and its global partners are supporting the immediate needs arising from this horror by supporting victims right now:
Funds for Victims of TerrorEvacuation and Support for Frontline Communities Emergency Medical Assistance and HealthcareIn this episode we'll talk about this emergency appeal with Natou Suissa, Director of Financial Resource D...
Special Edition - Israel Emergency - Community Safety | Federation CJA 360 Podcast Episode 13
We are focusing today on safety and security here in the Montreal Jewish community. Many members of the community are understandably concerned for their personal safety and that of their family, be it out in the community, at school, synagogue, wherever.
We’ve invited David, Federation CJA Director of Community Security, to answer a few questions.
Federation CJA is in close contact with our overseas partners, and we have been called upon with an unprecedented need for cash to assist victims of terror and their families.
Federation CJA will absorb all administrative costs to t...
Special Edition - Israel At War | Federation CJA 360 Podcast Episode 12
Community members and leaders gather at vigil in support of Israel and to mourn the victims. This episode presents a condensed recording of the vigil with highlights from the speeches.
Am Israel Chai.
The Pulse of Montreal's Jewish Community.
Campaign and Community | Federation CJA 360 Podcast Episode 11
Episode 11:
We’re back to talk about one of the most crucial roles in Federation CJA, fundraising!
Episode 11 gives a further look into the power of YOUR impact to the Combined Jewish
Appeal.
Here’s a sneak peek:
- Yair Szlak speaks with Natou Suissa, Director of Development, on the power and
impact of your contribution.
- Get a Mini-Fed segment for a behind the scenes with Lindsay Eiley, Director of
Passport to Jewish Life.
- Celebrate Israel’s 75 th with an “Israeli Moment” from our brand-new special
emissary from Israe...
The Power of Fundraising | Federation CJA 360 Podcast Episode 10
Exciting news! With the launch of our 2023 Campaign, episode 10 explores the impact of community, and how strong we can be when we #StandUp together.
Here’s a sneak peek:
- Yair Szlak gets into the behind the scenes of fundraising with David Cape, Chair
of the 2022-2023 Comprehensive General Campaign of the Combined Jewish
Appeal.
- Rabbi Getzy dives in to the incredible work done at The Family Store, a
subsidized community grocery warehouse.
- Celebrate Israel’s 75 th with an “Israeli Moment” from Stephen Rabinovitch as he
gives us the run...
All About Jewish Education | Federation CJA 360 Podcast Episode 9
Episode 9:
With the summer passing in the blink of an eye, we’re ramping up for the new school year with episode 9 of the Federation CJA 360 Podcast! Tune in to hear all about Jewish education.
Hear it all straight from Karen Gazith from the Bronfman Jewish Education Centre Meet two of our Shinshinim (Israeli student leaders) Judy Kremer gives us the inside scoop on PJ Library As CEGEP and University students head back to campus, Naomi Mazer joins us from Hillel, with ideas for involvement throughout the school year Anna Digerman from Russian-Speaking Jews updates us...Empowering Our Community: Unveiling a New Granting Strategy for 2023 | Federation CJA 360 Podcast Episode 8
Episode 8:
Dive into our captivating new episode featuring exciting discussions, expert insights, and inspiring stories from the heart of our community. Join us as we explore innovative approaches to support our community's growth and development. Our main guest, Pamela Teitelbaum, brings her wealth of knowledge and experience to shed light on the latest granting strategies. Discover how we can make a significant impact by investing in our community's most vital initiatives. Matthew Cutler takes the stage in our Mini-Fed segment, where he unveils our Corporate Sponsorship Mission. Learn how local businesses are collaborating with us to drive positive ch...From Jewish Summer Camping to Inspiring Conversations! | Federation CJA 360 Podcast Episode 7
We're thrilled to announce an upcoming episode of the Federation CJA 360 Podcast that you won't want to miss! Here's a sneak peek:
Episode 7: From Jewish Summer Camping to Inspiring Conversations: Join Yair Szlak as he delves into a captivating conversation about the Jewish Summer Camping experience. Get ready to explore the wonders and impact of these camps firsthand with special guests Guy Korngold of Camp Kinneret Biluim and Josh Pepin of Camp B’nai Brith of Montreal.
Monthly Mini-Fed Segment: Life and Legacy Initiative - Discover exclusive insights into the inspiring Life and Legacy initiative as...
Special Edition - Breaking Barriers, Spreading Awareness: Michael Rapaport Takes a Stand Against Antisemitism | Federation CJA 360 Podcast Episode 6
Discover the captivating Episode 6 Special Edition of the Federation CJA 360 Podcast, where we uncover the vibrant pulse of Montreal's Jewish community. Join us on this transformative journey as we welcome our esteemed guest, the talented actor, comedian, and devoted advocate against antisemitism, Michael Rapaport.
This compelling episode delves into the challenges, triumphs, and crucial conversations surrounding antisemitism within our community. Michael Rapaport brings his unique perspective and shares profound insights bound to make a lasting impact.
Listen now and immerse yourself in this thought-provoking discussion. Get ready to be inspired, enlightened, and empowered as we...
From Tragedy to Triumph, Lessons of the Holocaust to Celebrating Israel at 75 | Federation CJA 360 Podcast Episode 5
Yair discusses lessons of the Holocaust and Israel’s celebration on its 75 th birthday.
Meet Daniel Amar of the Montreal Holocaust Museum and Paul Hirschon, Consul
General of Israel in Montreal. We learn about Hillel Global Giving Week and we’ll
meet actor, comedian and antisemitism advocate Michael Rapaport.
Send your questions for Yair about the Jewish community and federation services.
Send us your first name, where you’re from, and your question to
podcast@FederationCJA.org and we’ll try to answer them on the next episode.
The Pulse of Montr...
Special Yom HaShoah Episode: A Survivor’s Story | Federation CJA 360 Podcast Episode 4
Holocaust Survivor Rae Gropper shares her inspiring life story of resistance, survival, and hope during and after the Shoah. Her remarkable journey is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.
The Pulse of Montreal's Jewish Community.