The Chai Road

About The Chai Road

The Chai Road is a podcast where we explore powerful stories, inspiring journeys, and important conversations about faith, identity, and resilience. Hosted by Max Alperstein, a Jewish teenager, each episode features thought-provoking discussions with guests who are making a difference in their communities. Whether it's about embracing who you are, standing up for what you believe in, or navigating life’s challenges, The Chai Road brings you real stories from real people. Tune in for episodes that will inspire, uplift, and encourage you to walk your own Chai Road!

Publisher

Max Alperstein

Category

religion & spirituality

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

2 Apr 2025

Latest episode

20 Aug 2025

Latest episodes

13 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   20 Aug 2025

   Misha: Queers Stand With Israel - The Chai Road Ep. 13

   Join host Max Alperstein on 'The Chai Road' as he welcomes special guest Misha, known on Instagram as Queers Stand with Israel. In this heartfelt and inspiring episode, Misha shares their journey of self-discovery, coming out as queer at a young age, and merging their queer and Jewish identities. They discuss the challenges of facing antisemitism and homophobia both online and in person, while emphasizing the importance of unity and positivity. Misha elaborates on their impactful experiences in Israel, including the profound moments that shaped their activism. This episode is a testament to the strength of young voices in making change, highlighting Misha's dedication to advocating for the Jewish and LGBTQ+ communities. Don't miss this powerful conversation about resilience, identity, and the power of social media in creating positive change. Time stamps 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:45 Misha's Early Life and Social Media Journey 01:29 Coming Out and Embracing Identity 02:55 Challenges of Balancing Identities 04:09 Impact of October 7th and Activism 12:53 Experiences in Israel 19:45 Message to the Next Generation 20:46 Reflections on Being Queer and Jewish 22:30 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Cameras: Sony FX3, FX30, and A7IV Lenses: Sony G Master 24-70mm f/2.8, Sigma 16mm f/1.4, and others Lighting: Aputure Amaran 150c COB Video Lights & Accent B7c Bulbs Audio: Rode Wireless GO II + Rode NTG4 Monitoring: Rodecaster Pro II Edited in Adobe Premiere Pro Music & Sound from Artlist Drone and b-roll by DJI

2. 

   17 Jul 2025

   Michael Valdes: To Keep Your Humanity - The Chai Road Ep. 12

   In this episode of The Chai Road, host Max Alperstein sits down with Michael Valdes, known as 'Hot Jewish Energy,' to discuss his recent experience in Israel during the 12-day conflict with Iran. Michael shares his harrowing escape through Jordan, the profound sense of community he encountered, and the challenges of navigating identity and safety in a time of crisis. The conversation also delves into the broader context of the conflict, the impact on LGBTQ+ communities, and the shared history and future hopes for Iran and Israel. Join us for an in-depth discussion on resilience, identity, and the complexities of international conflict. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 00:27 Michael's Experience in Israel During the Conflict 01:55 Journey Through Jordan 05:22 Life in Israel During the Conflict 11:17 Escaping Through Jordan 16:06 Reflections on Identity and Conflict 28:04 Pride and Community 30:32 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

3. 

   3 Jul 2025

   Amy Blumenfeld: Writing from the heart - The Chai Road Ep.11

   In an episode of 'The Chai Road' podcast, host Max Alperstein converses with Amy Blumenfeld, an acclaimed author and childhood cancer survivor. They delve into Amy’s career from her journalistic roots to becoming an award-winning novelist. Her debut novel, 'The Cast,' combined personal experience with creative storytelling to much acclaim. Her latest work, 'Such Good People,' explores themes of love, loyalty, and justice within the backdrop of a political campaign. Amy discusses her writing influences, challenges, and how her Jewish identity and personal experiences have shaped her work. They also touch on the emotional and moral intricacies narrated in her novels. Amy offers insightful advice for budding writers, emphasizing authenticity and self-expression. 00:00 Introduction to Amy Blumenfeld 01:13 Amy's Early Writing Journey 02:36 Transition from Journalism to Fiction 03:30 The Inspiration Behind 'The Cast' 06:09 Writing Challenges and Personal Elements 16:27 Amy's New Novel: 'Such Good People' 21:50 Jewish Influences in Amy's Work 26:38 Final Thoughts and Reflections

4. 

   25 Jun 2025

   Ari Ackerman: The Power of Activism - The Chai Road Ep. 10

   Join Max Alperstein on 'The Chai Road' as he delves deep into Ari Ackerman's inspiring journey. From his days growing up in a Jewish day school in New York to his impactful career in sports and philanthropy, Ari shares his personal stories, challenges, and the unwavering values that guide his activism. Discover Ari's top tips for entrepreneurial success, his thoughts on combating antisemitism, and his vision for the future of Jewish advocacy. 00:00 Introduction to Ari Ackerman 00:38 Growing Up in a Jewish Day School 02:56 Facing Pushback and Activism in College 05:54 Ari's Entrepreneurial Journey 06:48 Top Three Tips for Entrepreneurs 09:07 Combating Antisemitism and Jewish Hatred 11:27 Support for Israel and the Jewish Community Through Baseball 09:59 Impact of October 7th on Activism 18:44 Advice for the Younger Generation 21:35 Final Thoughts and Taking the High Road

5. 

   18 Jun 2025

   Kosha Dillz: Bring the family Home - The Chai Road Ep. 9

   Join host Max Alperstein on the High Road Podcast as she sits down with the inspirational rapper Kosha Dillz. Dive deep into Kosha Dillz’s journey from his early music career to his impactful presence in the Jewish community, his unique approach to rap, and his efforts in fostering dialogue through music and films. Discover how he mixes cultural identity with music, tackles antisemitism, and navigates his personal and professional identities. Time stamps 00:00 Introduction to Kosha Dillz 00:19 Early Music Career and Evolution 02:46 Jewish Identity in Music 04:21 Creative Freedom and Artistic Juxtapositions 07:40 Impact of October 7th and Career Shift 11:56 Street Interviews and Social Media Presence 15:18 Creating the Film 'Bring the Family Home' 17:47 Confirmation Bias and Hypocrisy 18:40 The Journey of Making a Film 19:41 Protests and Personal Growth 21:04 Challenges and Cancellations 30:15 Taking the High Road 32:30 Final Thoughts and Contact Information Spotify

6. 

   5 Jun 2025

   Logan Levkoff: Sexy Zionism - The Chai Road Ep. 8

   Logan Levkoff: Sexy Zionism - The Chai Road Ep. 8 In this engaging episode of 'The High Road,' host Max Alperstein sits down with Logan Levkoff, a prominent sex educator and Zionist voice. The conversation takes listeners through Logan's journey from her early years on Long Island, navigating issues of sexuality and identity in a pre-digital age, to her evolution into a champion for difficult conversations . Logan shares personal anecdotes, discusses the complexities surrounding today's political and social climates, and offers thoughtful insights into adolescent challenges. Tune in to hear Logan's perspective on the intersection of sexual education and Zionism, and how she hopes to inspire the next generation to engage in meaningful, fearless dialogue. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:21 Logan's Background and Early Life 04:05 Challenges of Modern Youth 06:04 Journey into Sexual Education 12:25 Media Career and Public Presence 16:14 Jewish Identity and Modern Challenges 17:26 JWI and Women's Advocacy 19:21 Current State of the Jewish World 22:01 Student Reactions and Political Views 25:15 The Sexy Side of Zionism TV Show 25:46 Challenges in Media and Personal Beliefs 28:51 Family Influence and Personal Motivation 35:09 Advice for Teenagers on Tough Conversations 36:57 Future Plans and New Initiatives

7. 

   29 May 2025

   Shoshana Aufzien: Ground Zero - The Chai Road Ep. 7

   Welcome to 'The High Road' with Max Alperstein! In today's gripping episode, Max sits down with Shoshana Aufzien, a Columbia University student and vocal advocate for Jewish rights, to discuss the rising tide of antisemitism on university campuses. 🌍 Topics Covered: - Shoshana’s personal experiences with antisemitism and activism - The complexities of being a vocal Zionist in a polarized campus environment - The impacts of social media and online harassment - Navigating bureaucratic challenges within educational institutions - Building alliances and fostering understanding among diverse groups Shoshana shares her inspiring journey, filled with both struggles and triumphs, offering a raw and unfiltered look at what it means to stand up for one’s beliefs in today's world. From facing Twitter trolls to engaging in meaningful conversations with unlikely allies, her story is a testament to resilience and the power of dialogue. 💬 Join the Conversation: What are your thoughts on the issues discussed in this episode? Let us know in the comments below, and don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more episodes of 'The High Road.' 🔔 Stay Connected: Follow us on Instagram  to stay updated on future episodes and other exciting content. Thank you for watching! TIME STAMPS 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 00:21 Current Climate at Columbia University 01:10 Facing Antisemitism and Advocacy 02:29 Diverse Perspectives within the Jewish Community 03:14 Challenges of Pro-Palestinian Sentiments 05:17 International Students and Campus Climate 07:15 Protests and Campus Activism 08:43 Critique of Jewish Community's Response 16:35 Faculty Senate and Administrative Challenges 20:22 Real Enactment and Campus Advocacy 20:41 Introducing a New Segment: Guest Nominations 20:58 Shoshana's Personal Story with Ezra Nasim 21:48 Empowering Women in Emergency Situations 23:14 Proud Zionism and Changing Perceptions 24:27 Addressing Fearmongering and Campus Antisemitism 27:46 Debating Columbia's Reputation and Boycotts 30:53 Facing Online Harassment and Institutional Challenges 33:14 Reflections on Jewish Community and Activism 36:43 Taking the High Road: Principles and Diplomacy

8. 

   14 May 2025

   Adela Cojab: Making History - The Chai Road Ep. 6

   In this episode of the High Road, host Max Alperstein interviews Adela Cojab, a groundbreaking figure in fighting antisemitism and advocating for Jewish rights. Adela shares her journey from Mexico to New Jersey, her experiences at NYU, legal battles, and her current role in combating antisemitism through the law. She also reflects on her upcoming participation in Miss Universe Israel 2025 and the importance of standing up for what's right. Time Stamps: 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 00:32 Adela's Early Life and Family Background 02:03 Challenges and Cultural Identity in School 05:52 College Experiences and Advocacy 09:39 Confronting Anti-Semitism at NYU 16:41 Escalation and Legal Actions 21:05 Facing Challenges at NYU 22:43 Filing the Case and Its Aftermath 23:51 Navigating Political Associations 30:24 Pursuing a Legal Career 34:45 Current Advocacy and Future Plans

9. 

   8 May 2025

   Sarri Singer: Strength to Strive - The Chai Road Ep. 5

   In this very special episode of The Chai Road, host Max Alperstein sits down with Sarri Singer, a resilient advocate for survivors of terrorism. Singer shares his personal journey from growing up in a politically engaged household in New Jersey to becoming an unwavering supporter of Israel. He discusses narrowly avoiding the Sparros pizza shop bombing in Jerusalem and his harrowing experience surviving the 14 bus bombing, which profoundly shaped her mission to support fellow victims of terrorism. Sarri Singer details the creation of his non-profit, Strength to Strength, aimed at building a global community of survivors, and reflects on the importance of unity, honesty, and the fight against terrorism. This heartfelt interview provides deep insights into resilience, community support, and the power of personal advocacy. 📢 Listen, share, and let the world know: we are here, and we are not silent. TIME STAMPS: 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:35 Early Life and Political Background 03:17 Connection with Israel 04:54 Experiences During 9/11 10:29 Surviving a Terrorist Attack 13:43 Aftermath and Reflections 24:31 A Community of Care and Support 25:25 Choosing Resilience Over Victimhood 28:02 Founding Strength to Strength 30:43 Global Network of Support 32:10 Reflections on October 7th 35:00 The Role of Politics and Terrorism 43:40 Message to the Next Generation 46:35 Living with Integrity and Truth

10. 

    24 Apr 2025

    Shai Davidai: Where you belong I belong - The Chai Road Ep. 4

    On this unforgettable episode of The Chai Road, Max Alperstein sits down with  Shai Davidai—Columbia University professor, truth-teller, and one of today’s most courageous voices in the fight against antisemitism. Dr. Davidai has captured the attention of millions by saying what others won’t. In this episode, he opens up about what compels him to speak out, the personal cost of activism, and how his Israeli identity shapes his unwavering moral stance. We explore the meaning of Hineni—“Here I am”—not just as a biblical phrase, but as a declaration of presence, responsibility, and resistance. Shai doesn’t hold back, and neither do we. Whether you're a student navigating campus tension, someone yearning for moral clarity, or simply searching for the courage to show up—you need to hear this conversation. 📢 Listen, share, and let the world know: we are here, and we are not silent. #TheChaiRoad #ShaiDavidai #HereIAm #Hineni #JewishVoices #FightAntisemitism #MoralClarity #ZionistVoices #CampusActivism #Israel #JewishPride #JewishResistance #WeAreHere #ChaiMeansLife #JewishPodcast #JewishIdentity #ColumbiaUniversity #SpeakTruth

11. 

    17 Apr 2025

    Sami Steigmann: Be your best - The Chai Road Ep. 3

    In this powerful and deeply moving episode of Chai Road, host Max Alperstein sits down with Sami Steigmann, a Holocaust survivor, motivational speaker, and advocate for resilience. Sami shares his harrowing yet inspiring journey of survival, from his early years in a Nazi labor camp to his lifelong mission of educating others about the dangers of hatred and the power of forgiveness. Max and Sami engage in a thought-provoking discussion on the importance of resilience, the value of hope in the face of adversity, and how personal stories can shape a more compassionate world. Sami’s firsthand experiences serve as a testament to the strength of the human spirit, offering profound insights into the lasting impact of history and the responsibilities we carry as the next generation. A special thank you to Francesca Howard for her incredible support, as well as DJI, RØDE, and Sony for providing the tools that help bring these stories to life. Final Cut Pro played a crucial role in crafting this episode with care and precision. And, of course, a heartfelt thank you to Sami Steigmann for hosting us and sharing his remarkable journey. Join us for an unforgettable conversation—one that reminds us of the power of resilience, the necessity of remembrance, and the enduring hope that carries us forward. L’Chaim! For inquiries, please reach out via email at maxvalperstein@gmail.com. Make sure to follow @maxalperstein and support us on Patreon. Don’t forget to comment, follow, and share with your friends on YouTube and Spotify! Your support means the world to us.

12. 

    9 Apr 2025

    Jes Escalante: I am A Jew - The Chai Road Ep. 2

    In this profoundly inspiring Episode 2 of The Chai Road, your host Max Alperstein sits down with Jes Escalante, a Latin trans convert to Judaism, who is not only navigating their unique journey of faith and identity but also standing tall as an advocate for peace, honor, and resilience. Jes shares their powerful story of converting to Judaism, embracing both their Latin and trans identities, and using their voice to challenge hatred while promoting love and understanding. In this candid conversation, Jes speaks about the challenges they've faced, the strength it took to embrace their identity, and how they’ve become a beacon of hope and advocacy for those who feel marginalized. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who values resilience, community, and the fight for justice. Jes’s story serves as a reminder that we all have the power to create change in the world, no matter the obstacles in our path. Big thank you to CapCut for making the editing process smoother, and to Sony Cameras for capturing the magic! For inquiries, please reach out via email at maxvalperstein@gmail.com. Make sure to follow @maxalperstein and support us on Patreon. Don’t forget to comment, follow, and share with your friends on YouTube and Spotify! Your support means the world to us.

13. 

    2 Apr 2025

    Shabbos Kestenbaum: Politically Homeless- The Chai Road Ep. 1

    Description: Welcome to The Chai Road, a podcast that embraces the high road and champions what’s right, shining a light on the voices that deserve to be heard. In today’s episode, Max Alperstein welcomes Shabbos Kestenbaum, a Harvard graduate, proud Orthodox Jew, and the courageous lead plaintiff in a groundbreaking lawsuit against Harvard University regarding its response to antisemitism on campus. Shabbos has become a key figure in national discussions about antisemitism, free speech, and Jewish identity, recently sharing his powerful story at the Republican National Convention. In this heartfelt and insightful conversation, Shabbos opens up about his personal journey, his experiences at Harvard, and the legal battle that has brought him into the public eye. From navigating the challenges of being an Orthodox Jew at a prestigious university to sharing his thoughts on American politics and the future of the Middle East, this episode explores the rich complexities of faith, identity, and activism with warmth and depth. Topics include: ● Shabbos’s early life and personal identity, and how his upbringing shaped his perspective on politics and Jewish identity ● His experience at Harvard and the challenges he faced as an Orthodox Jew ● Mahmoud Khalil and deportation on Columbia ● The decision to take legal action against Harvard over antisemitism ● Shabbos’s views on Israel, American politics, and the generational divide among young Jews ● Advice for young Jewish advocates navigating antisemitism and political challenges Shabbos’s story is a powerful example of resilience, courage, and standing up for what’s right. Don’t miss this thought-provoking conversation! For inquiries, reach out at maxvalperstein@gmail.com. Support The Chai Road on Patreon, and follow us on YouTube and Spotify. Comment, share, and tell your friends!

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

5 ratings

Spotify

4.5 / 5

8 ratings