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 her upbringing in New York’s diverse neighborhoods, the creation of her signature piece “Hebrew Mamita,” and the challenges of navigating identity, representation, and community—especially in the wake of October 7th, 2023. Vanessa opens up about her experiences with anti-Semitism, the evolution of her activism, and the importance of celebrating Jewish diversity. The episode features moving poetry, honest reflections, and a message of unity and resilience.

Guest: Vanessa Hidary

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Producers: Shai Davidai, Abbie Sophia, Adamit Productions, Naomi Landis, Emma Law-Oppman, Ilana Kalach, Allison Fuller

Filmed @ The CAVE Soundstage in Hackensack and edited by Adamit Productions

Graphic by Shira Auman

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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 thousands to give charity every single day. Together, they discuss the power of daily acts of kindness, the impact of automated giving, and the challenges and rewards of building a global nonprofit. Dr. Donath also opens up about the emotional stories behind the charities they support, the importance of community, and the lessons he’s learned about perseverance, disappointment, and hope. Tune in for heartfelt stories, practical wisdom, and a powerful reminder of the difference one person—and one dollar a day—can make.

Guest: Dr. Johnathan Donath

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Credits:

Producers: Shai Davidai, Abbie Sophia, Adamit Productions, Naomi Landis, Emma Law-Oppman, Ilana Kalach, Allison Fuller

Filmed @ The CAVE Soundstage in Hackensack and edited by Adamit Productions

Graphic by Shira Auman

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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 Israel-Hamas war from a child’s perspective. O. shares his feelings about participating in protests, the importance of being an “upstander,” and how kids experience and process world events differently from adults. The episode also touches on Jewish identity, the meaning of being Israeli-American, and the value of treating children with respect and honesty. This candid dialogue offers a unique, honest look at big issues through the eyes of a child, making it a must-watch for viewers of all ages.

Guest: O. Davidai

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Credits:

Producers: Shai Davidai, Abbie Sophia, Adamit Productions, Naomi Landis, Emma Law-Oppman, Ilana Kalach, Allison Fuller

Filmed @ The CAVE Soundstage in Hackensack and edited by Adamit Productions

Graphic by Shira Auman

For sponsorship opportunities, please email achi@adamitproductions.com

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 the Gaza border during the war. She opens up about the challenges of treating both soldiers and civilians, the ethical dilemmas faced by medics, and the emotional toll of war.

Noa also discusses her unexpected path to becoming Miss Israel, the viral advocacy videos she created during her reserve duty, and the impact of both support and hate she’s received online. She reflects on her family’s Holocaust legacy, her evolving Jewish identity, and her mission to inspire and unite Jewish communities worldwide. This episode is a testament to resilience, courage, and the power of using one’s voice for good.

This season is dedicated to Shai’s grandmother, Leah Davidai, who passed away earlier this year. Sponsored in part by Iron Dome Coffee, visit www.irondomecoffee.com and use the code HERE I AM for an exclusive discount just for our listeners.

Guest: Noa Cochva

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Credits:

Producers: Shai Davidai, Abbie Sophia, Adamit Productions, Naomi Landis, Emma Law-Oppman, Ilana Kalach, Allison Fuller

Filmed @ The CAVE Soundstage in Hackensack and edited by Adamit Productions

Graphic by Shira Auman

For sponsorship opportunities, please email achi@adamitproductions.com

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 Hamas and supporting peace with Israel, including threats to her safety and her dramatic escape from her home country. The discussion covers the role of the Muslim Brotherhood, the challenges of combating misinformation, and Dalia’s ongoing advocacy for peace and education in the US. Through her story, Dalia highlights the importance of resilience, standing up for truth, and empowering the next generation—especially young women—to be courageous and hopeful in the face of adversity.

This season is dedicated to Shai’s grandmother, Leah Davidai, who passed away earlier this year. Sponsored in part by Iron Dome Coffee, visit www.irondomecoffee.com and use the code HERE I AM for an exclusive discount just for our listeners.

Guest: Dalia Ziada

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Credits:

Producers: Shai Davidai, Abbie Sophia, Adamit Productions, Naomi Landis, Emma Law-Oppman, Ilana Kalach, Allison Fuller

Filmed @ The CAVE Soundstage in Hackensack and edited by Adamit Productions

Graphic by Shira Auman

For sponsorship opportunities, please email achi@adamitproductions.com

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 values in the Middle East. She discusses the impact of October 7th, her fight against terrorism, and the importance of standing up against hate. Dalia also reflects on her role in the Arab Spring, the challenges of promoting nonviolence, and the ongoing struggle for human rights and coexistence in the region. This conversation offers deep insights into the complexities of the Middle East and the courage it takes to advocate for change.

This season is dedicated to Shai’s grandmother, Leah Davidai, who passed away earlier this year. Sponsored in part by Iron Dome Coffee, visit www.irondomecoffee.com and use the code HERE I AM for an exclusive discount just for our listeners.

Guest: Dalia Ziada

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Credits:

Producers: Shai Davidai, Abbie Sophia, Adamit Productions, Naomi Landis, Emma Law-Oppman, Ilana Kalach, Allison Fuller

Filmed @ The CAVE Soundstage in Hackensack and edited by Adamit Productions

Graphic by Shira Auman

For sponsorship opportunities, please email achi@adamitproductions.com

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 Jewish philanthropy. The conversation explores Natal’s mission to support trauma victims in Israel, especially following the events of October 7th, and how the organization builds resilience in individuals and communities through helplines, clinical support, and proactive programs. Maayan discusses the challenges of addressing trauma, the importance of human connection, and how Natal’s work extends beyond Israel to inspire similar initiatives abroad. The episode closes with a personal lightning round, highlighting Maayan’s insights on hope, coping, and the power of community in times of crisis.

This season is dedicated to Shai’s grandmother, Leah Davidai, who passed away earlier this year. Sponsored in part by Iron Dome Coffee, visit www.irondomecoffee.com and use the code HERE I AM for an exclusive discount just for our listeners.

Guest: Maayan Aviv

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Credits:

Producers: Shai Davidai, Abbie Sophia, Adamit Productions, Naomi Landis, Emma Law-Oppman, Ilana Kalach, Allison Fuller

Filmed @ The CAVE Soundstage in Hackensack and edited by Adamit Productions

Graphic by Shira Auman

For sponsorship opportunities, please email achi@adamitproductions.com

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 simple labels and categories. Dr. Bitton discusses why Jewish identity is more than just a hat one can take on or off, and how American society’s binary views on race and ethnicity often fail to capture the unique experiences of Jews. The conversation delves into topics like the term “Jew of color,” the impact of social constructs on identity, and the importance of embracing the full, sometimes inconvenient, truth of Jewish history. This episode offers a nuanced look at belonging, inclusion, and the ongoing conversation about race, privilege, and identity in the Jewish community.

This season is dedicated to Shai’s grandmother, Leah Davidai, who passed away earlier this year. Sponsored in part by Iron Dome Coffee, visit www.irondomecoffee.com and use the code HERE I AM for an exclusive discount just for our listeners.

Guest: Dr. Mijal Bitton

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Credits:

Producers: Shai Davidai, Abbie Sophia, Adamit Productions

Filmed @ The CAVE Soundstage in Hackensack and edited by Adamit Productions

Graphic by Shira Auman

For sponsorship opportunities, please email achi@adamitproductions.com