On this episode of The Rabbi & the Other Guy, our hosts are joined by Barak Hermann, President and CEO of the JCC Association of North America, for a thoughtful conversation about the vital role JCCs play in Jewish community life.

Together, they explore how JCCs support Jewish families at every stage of life, from early childhood through adulthood, and why they remain one of the most powerful entry points into Jewish connection and belonging. Barak also reflects on what it means for a JCC to be a true place of welcome—one that opens its doors to all members of the community while strengthening Jewish identity and shared values.

Insightful, practical, and deeply rooted in community, this episode highlights why JCCs matter now more than ever.

Watch the full episode here!

In this episode of The Rabbi & the Other Guy, Dr. Matt Schocket and Rabbi Daniel Septimus sit down with Rabbi Mara Nathan, Senior Rabbi at Temple Beth-El in San Antonio. Rabbi Nathan is the lead plaintiff in a lawsuit against the state of Texas challenging a new law that would require public schools to post the Ten Commandments in classrooms.

She discusses why the separation of church and state is vital to protecting both religious freedom and public education, how morality can be taught without religious doctrine, and what inspired her to take up this cause. It’s a powerful conversation about conviction, courage, and the ongoing fight to preserve religious liberty in Texas and beyond.

Watch the full episode here!

In this episode of The Rabbi & the Other Guy, Rabbi Daniel A. Septimus and Dr. Matt Schocket sit down with Amy Kritzer Becker—founder of ModernTribe, cookbook author, and creator of the beloved blog What Jew Wanna Eat. Amy shares how she infuses Jewish culture with a modern twist through food, design, and humor.

From reimagining traditional recipes to building a vibrant online community, Amy celebrates Jewish joy in creative, accessible, and delightfully delicious ways. It’s a conversation filled with laughter, nostalgia, and plenty of love—for food, family, and Jewish life.