What The Jewish World Needs Today

Swimming in a Jewish swimming pool doesn't make you Jewish. Exercising at a Jewish gym doesn't make you Jewish. Eating at a Chinese restaurant on Christmas Eve doesn't make you Jewish. Sustained Jewish identity over a lifetime: observing festivals, engaging with Jewish texts, studying and understanding Jewish values — these are the tools of Jewish survival.

Ronald S. Lauder is a fascinating example of how one person can have a huge impact on Jewish life. A successful businessman, an influential art collector, and a generous philanthropist, Lauder didn't get involved in Jewish causes until his experience as ambassador to post-war Austria changed him. But once he did, he zeroed in on the most critical institutions and enterprises. And he thinks the Jewish world needs more people to step up and fill the leadership vacuum.

I hope you'll tune in and join me for this intimate conversation wherever you get your podcasts.