Judaism has always been an erev rav, a mixed multitude of those who inherit it and those who actively step into it. In this episode, the rabbis are joined by Rabbi Rebecca Birk to explore what draws people to choose Judaism today — from a deep spiritual pull to emotional, psychological and even physiological connection. Along the way, they unpack the Progressive conversion journey: a process that’s as inclusive, searching, rigorous and personal as it is transformative.

What’s it really like to be a Jewish student on campus today? In this episode, the rabbis are joined by Zac Bates Fisher, Student Engagement Officer for Progressive Judaism, to hear four candid stories from students with very different experiences of Jewish life at university.

In a moment when Jewish identity can feel heightened, tense or misunderstood, these stories are about choice — choosing to step into Jewish life, to build community and to find connection. From sport and Shabbat dinners to interfaith iftars and growing inclusivity across shared Progressive and Orthodox spaces, students show that even in complex times, Jewish campus life can be intentional, resilient and full of possibility.

You can reach Zac on Whatsapp at: ‪+44 7704 338344‬, on instagram at @zac.pjs or by sending an email to:ZacBF@progressivejudaism.org.uk

The rabbis are back for a fifth season of Rabbiting On, kicking off with the rabbis sharing some jaw-dropping tales of what people think is perfectly acceptable to say about how they look; a nod to Judaism’s own long tradition of saying exactly what it thinks. From sacred texts that freely comment on appearance to the eternal Jewish obsession with festivals and food, this episode has opinions, laughs and plenty to chew over.

Find Rabbiting On wherever you get your podcasts, follow @rabbiting_on_podcast on Instagram, and tell them what you want them to rabbit on about next.