In this episode, host Luda Isakharov shares her journey from facing antisemitism as a student to becoming student body president and now ADL's Assistant Regional Director in Washington DC.

Born to Soviet immigrants, Luda often felt isolated as the only Jewish student in her schools. Her awakening came at University of Oregon when she discovered the BDS movement and realized she was alone as a Jewish voice in student government—initially leading her to hide her identity to survive politically. This experience fueled her determination to run for student body president and now guide other Jewish students facing similar challenges. Tune in for a story of courage, conviction, and giving back.

Click here to take action on your campus.

Report a campus incident here.

If you want to share your story, please email chaiered@adl.org.

This episode was produced by Jasmine Rach. Chai-er Ed’s senior producer is Russell Gragg. Executive producer is Dovi Chein.

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):

https://uppbeat.io/t/tatami/journey

License code: QP1XMMARCP16V90T

In this episode of Mazel Talk we hear from University of Indiana grad, Ava Tuschman. Ava opens up about her Jewish upbringing in Toledo, Ohio, where being “the Jewish kid” often made her feel different. She reflects on a complicated relationship with identity and how she ran toward her Judaism, not away. In this reminiscence, Ava talks about the inner transformation that turned hesitation into pride, and how the events of October 7 weren’t just world-shaking—they were personal.

Tune in to hear about Ava’s journey from discomfort to confidence, from disengaged to determined. Her story is one of rediscovery, courage, and the power of showing up.

Click here to take action on your campus.

Report a campus incident here.

If you want to share your story, please email chaiered@adl.org

This episode was produced by Jasmine Rach. Senior Producer is Russell Gragg. Executive Producer is Dovi Chein.

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):

https://uppbeat.io/t/tatami/journey

License code: QP1XMMARCP16V90T

In this powerful episode, we sit down with Lucas Korn from the University of Michigan to explore his courageous and inspiring journey into campus politics. Lucas shares what motivated him to get involved, how he successfully ran for student government, and the backlash and antisemitism he faced as a proud Jew in the public eye. Despite the challenges, Lucas stayed true to his values, persevered, and accomplished what he set out to do. His story is a testament to resilience, integrity, and the impact of standing up for what is right—even when it's hard.

Click here to take action on your campus.

Report a campus incident here.

If you want to share your story, please email chaiered@adl.org.

This episode was produced by Jasmine Rach. Chai-er Ed’s senior producer is Russell Gragg. Executive producer is Dovi Chein.

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):

https://uppbeat.io/t/tatami/journey

License code: QP1XMMARCP16V90T

In this Chai-er Ed bonus episode, University of Michigan President Santa Ono emphasizes the importance of empathy and accountability in supporting Jewish students during times of conflict. He also shared the University of Michigan’s proactive steps to address antisemitism, including policy changes, campus engagement and a strong partnership with ADL.

Click here to take action on your campus.

Report a campus incident here.

If you want to share your story, please email chaiered@adl.org

Chai-er Ed’s senior producer is Russell Gragg. Executive producer is Dovi Chein.

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):

https://uppbeat.io/t/tatami/journey

License code: QP1XMMARCP16V90T

In this episode of Mazel Talk, we hear from University of Pittsburgh's Harrison Romero. Discovering a robust Jewish community on campus was something Harrison wasn’t expecting, but something he embraced. Finding community, building relationships, and taking on leadership roles is what kept him and his friends empowered and supported during dark times on campus.

Click here to take action on your campus.

Report a campus incident here.

If you want to share your story, please email chaiered@adl.org

This episode was produced by Jasmine Rach. Senior Producer is Russell Gragg. Executive Producer is Dovi Chein.

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):

https://uppbeat.io/t/tatami/journey

License code: QP1XMMARCP16V90T

In this special Chai-er Ed bonus episode recorded live at the ADL’s Never Is Now summit, WashU Chancellor Andrew Martin discusses the critical balance between free speech and student safety on campus. From addressing antisemitism to enforcing campus policy during protests, Chancellor Martin shares how principled leadership can foster inclusive and resilient academic communities.

Click here to take action on your campus.

Report a campus incident here.

If you want to share your story, please email chaiered@adl.org

This episode was produced by Jasmine Rach. Senior Producer is Russell Gragg. Executive Producer is Dovi Chein.

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):

https://uppbeat.io/t/tatami/journey

License code: QP1XMMARCP16V90T

In this episode of Mazel Talk, you will hear from University of Maryland’s, Sara Weinstein. Whether it is her passion for student government, leading the fight against BDS, or testifying before government committees, Sara’s story of being the change she wants to see, is one we all can learn from.

Click here to take action on your campus.

Report a campus incident here.

If you want to share your story, please email chaiered@adl.org

This episode was produced by Jasmine Rach. Senior Producer is Russell Gragg. Executive Producer is Dovi Chein.

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):

https://uppbeat.io/t/tatami/journey

License code: QP1XMMARCP16V90T

In this episode of Mazel Talk from Chai-er Ed, you will hear from University of Texas, Austin’s, Levi Fox. At an early age, Levi befriended a group of Holocaust survivors. One of them in particular, Uncle Zoly, became like family. The two built a special relationship, and Uncle Zoly’s passion for life and the way he faced challenges left Levi with a powerful playbook.

Click here to take action on your campus.

Report a campus incident here.

If you want to share your story, please email chaiered@adl.org

This episode was produced by Jasmine Rach. Senior Producer is Russell Gragg. Executive Producer is Dovi Chein.

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):

https://uppbeat.io/t/tatami/journey

License code: QP1XMMARCP16V90T