MILLIONS Watch History’s First Asian-American Rabbi, Angela Buchdahl of New York’s Central Synagogue

Jonah Platt sits down with Rabbi Angela Buchdahl of New York’s Central Synagogue to discuss her powerful new book, Heart of a Stranger: An Unlikely Story of Faith, Identity and Belonging. Together, they explore what it means to live JEWISHLY today — drawing on timeless wisdom, personal reflection, and ancient storytelling. From conversations about conversion and inclusion to reflections on optimism and belonging in a fractured world, Rabbi Buchdahl brings her signature depth and compassion to every topic. Much like her weekly sermons, streamed by millions around the globe every week, this discussion feels both timely and timeless, landing perfectly on the Jewish calendar as she reflects on the meaning of Simchat Torah and Shemini Atzeret. At the heart of the episode — and of Rabbi Buchdahl’s book — lies a profound idea: that to be Jewish often means to feel like a stranger - usually a sentiment that feels isolating but when embraced can be inspiring, empathetic and purposeful. Don’t miss this thoughtful and uplifting episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt. 00:00 - Growing Up Jewish in Tacoma 04:58 - Asian Identity and Judaism 09:47 - The Call to the Rabbinate 12:35 - Torah's Command: Love the Stranger 20:47 - Becoming Senior Rabbi 22:45 - Leading the Central Synagogue 25:00 - High Holiday Spiritual Intensity 33:05 - Women in the Rabbinate 36:20 - October 7th Impact 41:40 - Unity After October 7th 46:25 - Importance of Jewish Education #RabbiAngelaBuchdahl #CentralSynagogue #JewishIdentity #AsianAmericanRabbi #LoveTheStranger #JonahPlatt #BeingJewishWithJonahPlatt #HeartOfAStranger #FemaleRabbi #Judaism #KoreanAmerican #Podcast #Interfaith