The Kibbitz
"The Kibbitz," is a podcast hosted by Melissa and Andrea, two middle-aged Jewish moms/wives/women from the Midwest, who see a lack of representation of their demographic in the media -- and they have A LOT to say. Writing buddies who spent more time talking than writing is where the podcast was born. Their voices, their viewpoints -- and those of their peers -- are really worth sharing, and the best way to do it is through The Kibbitz.
Episodes
March 24, 2026 • 55 mins
In today’s fast-paced world, many of us find ourselves overwhelmed by our wardrobes, often feeling like we have nothing to wear despite a closet full of clothes. In this week's episode, Andrea and Melissa sit down with Ivy Costa, a personal stylist who has dedicated her career to helping women navigate their wardrobe dilemmas and rediscover their unique style.
The Kibbitz is part of the Jewfolk Podcast Network, a product of Jewfolk...
The Kibbitz is part of the Jewfolk Podcast Network, a product of Jewfolk...
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March 10, 2026 • 42 mins
Can we really keep our kids safe on campus? The rise in antisemitism is real, and it’s coming from all directions. On a news-breaking episode of The Kibbitz, Andrea and Melissa talk with Shira Goodman from the ADL, for a deep-dive into the current landscape of antisemitism in schools, including breaking some details from the ADL's newly released Campus Antisemitism Report Card. While it’s alarming to know that our kids are facing t...
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February 18, 2026 • 63 mins
This conversation explores the profound experiences of volunteering in Israel, particularly in the context of the recent conflict. The speaker shares personal stories of connection to Israel, the weight of responsibility on young soldiers, and the urgent need for support in the military. The discussion also touches on the impact of anti-Semitism, the importance of community, and the lessons learned from serving in a war zone.
The Ki...
The Ki...
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February 4, 2026 • 66 mins
In the world of fitness, personal training can often feel intimidating, especially to those who are just starting their journey. In this enlightening podcast episode, Melissa and Andrea welcome Andrea' trainer, John Rupp, to explore the transformative power of exercise and how it can serve as a therapeutic outlet for frustrations and stress. They share personal anecdotes and insights that highlight the importance of adapting fitnes...
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January 21, 2026 • 77 mins
In this conversation, Dr. Sarah Crane discusses her journey into Holocaust and genocide studies, the evolution of Holocaust education, and the importance of survivor stories. She emphasizes the need for critical thinking in understanding history and the role of ordinary people in both perpetrating and resisting genocide. The discussion also touches on the challenges of teaching about trauma, the significance of empathy, and the rel...
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January 7, 2026 • 64 mins
Melissa and Andrea welcome Rabbi Ari Jun, where they discuss the importance of giving grace and understanding in today's society, particularly within the Jewish community. They explore the challenges of navigating Jewish identity amidst rising antisemitism and the complexities surrounding Zionism. The conversation emphasizes the significance of storytelling, community engagement, and mental health support, while also addressing the...
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December 24, 2025 • 85 mins
In this engaging conversation, the hosts and their husbands share personal stories about their relationships, discussing the privileges of marriage, the importance of support, and the challenges of parenting. They reflect on how love evolves over time, the role of humor in navigating tough times, and the impact of their upbringings on their views of marriage. The discussion highlights the significance of gratitude and appreciation ...
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December 10, 2025 • 47 mins
In this conversation, Andrea and Melissa explore the significance of cookbooks in Jewish culture, particularly focusing on the Settlement Cookbook and its role in the Americanization of Jewish immigrants. They discuss how cookbooks serve as texts that reflect community values, identity, and memory, while also sharing personal anecdotes about family recipes and the legacy of cooking traditions. The dialogue highlights the evolution ...
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November 26, 2025 • 82 mins
This week, Andrea and Melissa welcome their friends, sisters Amy and Dedra, to talk about loss and grief. The episode runs the gamut of emotions, from joy of family to the profound sadness in the loss of a parent.
The Kibbitz is part of the Jewfolk Podcast Network, a product of Jewfolk, Inc. For more information, go to jewfolk.com/podcast or email podcast@jewfolk.com
The Kibbitz is part of the Jewfolk Podcast Network, a product of Jewfolk, Inc. For more information, go to jewfolk.com/podcast or email podcast@jewfolk.com
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November 5, 2025 • 44 mins
In this conversation, Melissa and Andrea explore the significance of family connections, the role of being a family keeper, and the emotional weight of inherited stories and artifacts. They discuss the impact of family history on personal identity, the journey of discovering ancestry, and the importance of technology in genealogy. The conversation highlights the shared experiences that connect generations and the legacy of Holocaus...
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October 22, 2025 • 55 mins
This conversation explores the evolving role of women in Jewish leadership, the challenges of balancing work and family life, and the importance of community engagement. Rabbi Liz P.G. Hirsch discusses her experiences transitioning to Cincinnati, the significance of sisterhood, and the impact of the pandemic on family dynamics. The dialogue emphasizes the need for inclusion and advocacy within the Jewish community, drawing parallel...
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August 26, 2025 • 46 mins
Before a late-summer hiatus, Andrea and Melissa reflect on their experience seeing the iconic "Fiddler on the Roof" at Music Hall Cincinnati. The Kibbitzers talked about the current run of the show, but also the importance of the show not just in Jewish culture at large, but also specifically to them and their families.
The Kibbitz is part of the Jewfolk Podcast Network, a product of Jewfolk, Inc. For more information, go to jewfo...
The Kibbitz is part of the Jewfolk Podcast Network, a product of Jewfolk, Inc. For more information, go to jewfo...
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August 12, 2025 • 31 mins
In this episode, Andrea and Melissa talk with Sarah Fried from Hillel International about what Jewish college students are facing today — and how Hillel is helping them find connection, safety, and meaning. Whether you’re a student, a parent, or both, you’ll get honest insights and practical advice on navigating Jewish life on campus. Spoiler: It’s going to be okay.
The Kibbitz is part of the Jewfolk Podcast Network, a product of Je...
The Kibbitz is part of the Jewfolk Podcast Network, a product of Je...
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July 29, 2025 • 42 mins
It's never been more challenging to find the right college for your child. In a world where antisemitism is rising, what are some of the things that it's important to look for? This week, Andrea and Melissa welcome Keri Bahar, the founder of KSB College Consulting, to the podcast. Keri and the Kibbitzers talk about the modern challenges, what parents and kids are really looking for, and how to determine if what you're reading about...
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July 15, 2025 • 33 mins
In this raw and intimate episode of The Kibbitz, Andrea and Melissa explore the complex world of anxiety through personal stories and shared experiences. The two friends dive deep into their struggles with anxiety, discussing how it impacts their lives, creative work, and relationships. They unpack generational trauma, coping mechanisms, and the importance of acknowledging emotional challenges. With humor, vulnerability, and mutual...
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July 1, 2025 • 32 mins
This week, Andrea and Melissa are exploring the challenges and nuances faced by those in the "Sandwich Generation" — people who are simultaneously caring for their children and aging parents. Their discussions on life in The Middle—whether geographically in the heartland or within family dynamics—offer relatable insights into juggling responsibilities, maintaining relationships, and finding personal space amidst it all.
The Kibbitz...
The Kibbitz...
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June 19, 2025 • 52 mins
The Kibbitzers welcomed the community to Cafe Alma for the show's launch party. Listen to the live interview with Cincy Jewfolk editor Sam Fisher helping the people learn about Andrea and Melissa, get to know about what's in store for this season, and answer some VERY deep listener-submitted questions.
Books that would be good reads based on the discussions:
People Love Dead Jews: Reports from a Haunted Present by Dara Horn
Can We T...
Books that would be good reads based on the discussions:
People Love Dead Jews: Reports from a Haunted Present by Dara Horn
Can We T...
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June 17, 2025 • 61 mins
We have our first guest! Andrea and Melissa welcome singer/songwriter Dan Nichols to the show. What started as a discussion of the importance of Jewish overnight camp in shaping Dan's story turned into a deeper discussion of how he found his place in the Jewish community, mental health, family, and of course music. Plus, Dan shares a new track from his forthcoming album, "The Mirror."
The Kibbitz is part of the Jewfolk Podcast Netw...
The Kibbitz is part of the Jewfolk Podcast Netw...
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June 3, 2025 • 37 mins
This week, Andrea and Melissa discuss the rise in antisemitism, express frustration over the normalization of antisemitism and the challenges of addressing it, including the uninviting of a Zionist rabbi from an anti-Neo Nazi event and the desecration of a Jewish cemetery in Cincinnati. They emphasize the historical and cultural significance of Israel, refute the claim that Jews are white colonizers, and highlight the need for nuan...
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May 20, 2025 • 30 mins
Andrea and Melissa dive into the complicated world of body image. From societal pressures in the Jewish and secular worlds to self-acceptance, they open up about their personal journeys and the ongoing struggle to feel at home in their own skin. Expect real talk, a few laughs, and plenty of empathy as they unpack what it means to love (or even just like) your body in a world that doesn’t always make it easy. Whether you’ve battled ...
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