Conversations with B'nai B'rith
​HOSTED BY CEO DANIEL S. MARIASCHIN

In Conversation with Jewish Filmmaker Roberta Grossman

Noted Jewish filmmaker Roberta Grossman sits down with CEO Dan Mariaschin to discuss the essential role of film in Jewish memory, the Oyneg Shabes-Ringelblum Archive and her receiving the prestigious 2020 Jewish Peoplehood Award from Taube Philanthropies for her uniquely Jewish contributions to global culture. Grossman, a master storyteller of Jewish history, talks about the impact of her films, such as “Above and Beyond," and her craft, which allows her to shed light on Jewish historical subjects that resonate with diverse audiences.

B'nai B'rith Housing Update from the Front Lines

Two dedicated service coordinators, Jennifer Leffler of B'nai B'rith Apartments in Allentown, Pennsylvania and Teresa Wachala of the B’nai B’rith Covenant House in Tucson, Arizona, talk with CEO Dan Mariaschin about their incredible work during the COVID-19 pandemic and the benefits of being part of the B’nai B’rith housing network.

Recognizing BDS as anti-Semitic: In Conversation with Deputy Special Envoy David Peyman

Deputy Special Envoy to Monitor & Combat anti-Semitism David Peyman speaks with CEO Dan Mariaschin about the U.S. State Department’s crucial decision to recognize the BDS movement as anti-Semitic and breaks down the international ramifications of this designation.

Radio Legend Cousin Brucie on His Return to 77 WABC in New York

Legendary radio personality and Brooklyn’s own Bruce Morrow, known by his fans worldwide as Cousin Brucie, sits down with CEO Dan Mariaschin to discuss his new show on WABC-AM (770) in New York, "Cousin Brucie’s Saturday Night Rock & Roll Party." Morrow talks about his decision to return to WABC, where he worked for 13 years beginning in 1961, his introduction of the Beatles at Shea Stadium in 1965 and why radio remains as popular as ever.

The History of Greece's Romaniote Jews

Greece’s Romaniote Jews are among the oldest and least-known of all the Jewish communities in the diaspora. Dr. Samuel Gruber and Renee Pappas speak with CEO Dan Mariaschin about the ethnic Jewish community that once thrived in the northwestern Greek city of Ioannina and talk about how the late Vincent Giordano's photos of the once-thriving Romaniotes inspired them to finish his work.

David Peyman, U.S. Deputy Special Envoy to Combat anti-Semitism

David Peyman, Deputy Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat anti-Semitism at the U.S. Department of State, speaks with CEO Dan Mariaschin about tackling contemporary anti-Semitism, the keys to protecting Jewish communities around the world and his views on countries choosing not to ban Hezbollah. In his role, Mr. Peyman serves as the lead on strategic projects, including the global Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) movement against Israel.

Former Israeli Ambassador to the U.S. Michael Oren

Former Israeli Ambassador to the United States Michael Oren (2009-2013) speaks with CEO Dan Mariaschin about his new book, "The Night Archer and Other Stories," a collection of short fiction that explores the bounds of imagination and human emotions. Ambassador Oren discusses how his experiences as a statesman, cabinet member, politician and historian informed his creative writing process. He also draws on his diplomatic background to comment on the impact of the newly signed Abraham Accords and recent Middle East developments.

Pioneering Astronaut Dr. Jeffrey Hoffman

Former NASA astronaut Dr. Jeffrey Hoffman, the first Jewish-American male astronaut in space, speaks with CEO Dan Mariaschin about the journey that led him to join NASA, what it was like to spin a dreidel (and have a Torah scroll) in space and how flying above the Earth impacted his global perspective. They also talk about his current work on the MOXIE project as NASA prepares for human exploration of Mars and some tips for overcoming the isolation caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Dr. Samantha Baskind, Expert on Jewish Art and History
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Dr. Samantha Baskind, a specialist in Jewish art and history currently on faculty at Cleveland State University, speaks with CEO Dan Mariaschin about the impact of Jewish art in America and the subject of Baskind's most recent book, "The Warsaw Ghetto in American Art and Culture." She also explores some of her previous works and her current book project focusing on Moses Ezekiel.

David Schoenbaum, Author of "The Lives of Isaac Stern"
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Author David Schoenbaum joins CEO Dan Mariaschin for a centennial celebration of Isaac Stern, one of the twentieth century’s greatest musicians and an incredible advocate for music, Israel and historic preservation. Schoenbaum, author of the new book “The Lives of Isaac Stern,” discusses Stern's remarkable 60-year career from his formative years in San Francisco to concurrent careers as an activist, public citizen, chairman and cultural leader in the Jewish community.

Cheryl Kempler on B'nai B'rith Lodges in Europe, 1882-1943

Cheryl Kempler, B'nai B'rith Archivist and Staff Writer, joins CEO Dan Mariaschin for this installment of our Expert Analysis Series to explore B'nai B'rith's thriving presence in pre-World War II Europe and how the organization evolved during that period. The discussion focuses on B'nai B'rith lodges in Europe from 1882 to 1943, particularly in Germany, Austria and Denmark.

Dan Joseph, Author of "Last Ride of the Iron Horse"

Author Dan Joseph joins CEO Dan Mariaschin to talk about his book "Last Ride of the Iron Horse," which details Lou Gehrig's final season with the Yankees as he battled the early effects of ALS (later known as Lou Gehrig's Disease). The conversation focuses on Gehrig's last season in the Bronx and what Joseph discovered about Gehrig in his research, Gehrig’s open condemnation of Nazism and the Yankee legend’s strong support of Jewish refugees from Nazi Germany.

Be The Match Saves Lives One Bone Marrow Transplant at a Time

Jamie Margolis, SVP of Donor Services for Be The Match speaks with CEO Dan Mariaschin about saving lives, one bone marrow transplant at a time. They discuss innovations in marrow matching and the impact of COVID-19 on the matching process, as well as a special patient whose family hopes to reach a broader Jewish community to save her life and unique matching issues for Ashkenazi and Sephardic Jews.

U.S. Rep. Grace Meng on Seniors Issues During Coronavirus

U.S. Rep. Grace Meng speaks with CEO Dan Mariaschin about how seniors in her Queens, New York district, including B'nai B'rith of Queens, one of our senior housing facilities, have been impacted by COVID-19. The discussion also focuses on how the community is responding to the pandemic, what Meng has done to assist seniors and what another federal stimulus package would mean for older Americans.

The AMIA Bombing, 26 Years Later

B'nai B'rith Director of Latin American Affairs Eduardo Kohn and Special Advisor on Latin American Affairs Adriana Camisar join CEO Dan Mariaschin for this installment of our Expert Analysis Series. Camisar and Kohn speak about the 1994 AMIA terrorist bombing in Buenos Aires and how Argentina's relationship with Iran evolved over time. They also talk about Iran's malicious activity in Venezuela and how Latin America is dealing with new waves of anti-Semitism.

Emmy-winning Filmmaker Andrew Goldberg on His New PBS Documentary

Emmy Award-winning director and filmmaker Andrew Goldberg joins CEO Dan Mariaschin to discuss his new PBS documentary "VIRAL: ANTISEMITISM IN FOUR MUTATIONS." The two speak about Goldberg's decision to produce a documentary on anti-Semitism at this critical point in history, his experiences making the film and what he hopes viewers will take away from it.

Lord John Mann, Independent Advisor to the U.K. Government on Anti-Semitism

Host CEO Dan Mariaschin speaks with Lord John Mann about developments in the U.K. regarding anti-Semitism and the government's efforts to tackle it, challenges concerning anti-Semitism in the Labour Party as well as the ways in which the U.K. provides best practice on an international level. Lord Mann is the current advisor to the U.K. government on anti-Semitism. Special introduction by B’nai B’rith London Bureau for International Affairs Dir. Jeremy Havardi.

Yaniv Hoffman Brings Jewish Soul to Music's Mainstream

Singer-songwriter Yaniv Hoffman joins host CEO Dan Mariaschin to talk about his unusual life journey and how that inspires his music. As Jeryko, Hoffman also performs a song off his new EP, Human.

Jewish Cooking During Coronavirus Quarantine

Wondering what to cook now that we’re all home more? Chef and kosher food expert Paula Shoyer (The Kosher Baker) joins host CEO Dan Mariaschin to share some of her go-to ingredients and Jewish recipes during coronavirus quarantine.

​Exploring the History of Jewish Refugees in Hollywood

How did Jewish refugees navigate Hollywood in the first half of the 20th century? Our archivist Cheryl Kempler spoke with CEO Dan Mariaschin about Jews who left Europe and brought their unique perspectives with them to the silver screen.

Ambassador Aviva Raz Shechter, Permanent Representative of Israel to the U.N.

Host CEO Daniel S. Mariaschin in conversation with Ambassador Aviva Raz Shechter, Permanent Representative of Israel to the United Nations in Geneva. Mariaschin speaks with Ambassador Raz Shechter about her important role representing Israel at the U.N. and how Israel's efforts to fight COVID-19 at home and in the region have been received by the World Health Organization (WHO).

Isaac Herzog, ​chairman of The Jewish Agency for Israel

Host CEO Daniel S. Mariaschin in conversation with Isaac Herzog, chairman of The Jewish Agency for Israel (JAFI). Mariaschin speaks with Herzog about JAFI's role in today's environment, how the COVID-19 pandemic is affecting JAFI’s work around the world and how the organization is helping Jewish communities in crisis. They also talk about the organization’s plans to engage young Jews in diaspora communities.

Ambassador Francesco Talò, Italy's Permanent Representative to NATO

Host CEO Daniel S. Mariaschin in conversation with Ambassador Francesco Talò, Italy’s Permanent Representative to NATO. Mariaschin speaks with Talò about his home country's response to the coronavirus pandemic, his time as Italy's ambassador to Israel and his efforts to combat anti-Semitism in Europe. From 2012 to 2017, Talò served as Italy’s Ambassador to Israel in Tel Aviv.

Senior Housing on the Front Lines

Host CEO Dan Mariaschin talks to Jeff Cottingham, the property manager for a company which oversees the Sam J. Stone B’nai B’rith Apartments in Peoria, Illinois. They talk about the challenges that the coronavirus has exacerbated in senior housing facilities, and how frontline staff members are coping as they assist the residents in these subsidized independent living facilities.

​Examining HBO's ​Miniseries "The Plot Against America"

Host CEO Daniel S. Mariaschin in conversation with Eric Fusfield, B'nai B'rith's director of legislative affairs and deputy director of the B’nai B’rith International Center for Human Rights and Public Policy. Mariaschin speaks with Fusfield about “The Plot Against America,” HBO’s adaptation of Philip Roth’s 2004 novel of the same name. Mariaschin and Fusfield discuss the age-old question of Jewish identity in America, both then and now, as well as the similarities Roth's story has to the present-day.

Sergey Lagodinsky, Member of the European Parliament for Germany

Host CEO Daniel S. Mariaschin in conversation with MEP Sergey Lagodinsky. A Member of the European Parliament for Germany since 2019, Lagodinsky is a lawyer and member of the German Green Party. Mariaschin speaks with Lagodinsky about the European Union's efforts to combat the coronavirus pandemic, how the parliament approaches anti-Semitism and what role the Working Group on Anti-Semitism plays in setting the parliament’s agenda.

Israel's Minister of Regional Cooperation Tzachi Hanegbi

Host CEO Daniel S. Mariaschin in conversation with Israel's Minister of Regional Cooperation Tzachi Hanegbi. Mariaschin speaks with Minister Hanegbi about the coronavirus' effect on Israel and its economy, regional cooperation during the crisis, and how Israel's relationship with the rest of the world has changed in the midst of a global pandemic. Minister Hanegbi also provides updates on the formation of the new Israeli government.

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Coronavirus' Impact ​on the United Nations
​and B'nai B'rith's U.N. Initiatives

Host CEO Daniel S. Mariaschin in conversation with David Michaels, B’nai B’rith’s director of United Nations and Intercommunal Affairs. Mariaschin speaks with David about how the coronavirus has affected B’nai B’rith’s U.N. initiatives, how the virus has changed the U.N.’s priorities and deliberations, and what impact this crisis has had on relations between member states. They also talk about the World Health Organization’s role as this crisis continues to worsen.

Coronavirus, Latin America and the Jewish Community

Host CEO Daniel S. Mariaschin talks with Eduardo Kohn, B’nai B’rith’s director of Latin American Affairs about how Latin America is responding to the coronavirus pandemic, how the Jewish community is handling the outbreak, and what B’nai B’rith is doing to help Jews across Latin America during this time. They also discuss the implications of Luis Almagro being re-elected as secretary general of the Organization of American States (OAS), what his re-election means for Latin America and OAS's relationship with the Jewish community.

​Coronavirus and Seniors

Host CEO Daniel S. Mariaschin talks with Associate Director for B’nai B’rith’s Center for Senior Services Janel Doughten about how our experts in seniors issues are guiding our housing community through the coronavirus crisis.

 

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Webinars

Countering Islamist Extremism: The Aftermath of the Attacks in Paris, Nice and Vienna

Our EU Affairs team hosts a timely discussion on countering Islamist extremism following the attacks in Paris, Nice and Vienna in the last several months. They discuss root causes, trends and responses on a national and EU level with three expert panelists.

82 Years Since the November Pogroms (Kristallnacht): Genocide Prevention

Our EU Affairs team commemorates 82 years since the 1938 November Pogroms (Kristallnacht) with an expert discussion about genocide prevention today: the responsibilities of the international community, states and each and every one of us.

Expert Analysis: Lebanon, A Nation in Turmoil

Three months after the devastating explosion in Beirut, we explore the evolving sociopolitical situation in Lebanon. This includes a national environment already charged with mass demonstrations, public unrest and a deep distrust in the political elite. In a new installment of our Expert Analysis Series, Director of the B’nai B’rith World Center – Jerusalem Alan Schneider speaks with an expert panel of guests from the U.S., Israel and Europe regarding the complex state of affairs in Lebanon and the Middle East region.

Union: A Democrat, a Republican, and a Search for Common Ground

Jordan Blashek, a Republican and a Marine, and Chris Haugh, a Democrat and son of a single mother from Berkeley, CA, formed an unlikely friendship at Yale Law School. In a conversation hosted by B'nai B'rith Connect, our young professionals division, we speak with Jordan and Christopher about their timely new book, “Union: A Democrat, a Republican, and a Search for Common Ground" and their 44-state adventure to see where the American experiment stands.

Remembering the Tree of Life Shooting, Two Years Later

Two years after the Tree of Life massacre, CEO Dan Mariaschin speaks with Pittsburgh’s Jewish archivist Eric Lidji about his remarkable efforts to preserve and contextualize the pieces of history left behind from the worst anti-Semitic attack in American history. Lidji is director of the Rauh Jewish History Program & Archives at the Senator John Heinz History Center in Pittsburgh and has become the archivist of the Tree of Life attack, as well.

Halle: One Year Since the Yom Kippur Attack

Alina Bricman and Ilan Selby of our EU Affairs team lead a program on Germany and the EU’s progress fighting anti-Semitism, right-wing extremism and building communal resilience and solidarity since the Yom Kippur attack in Halle one year ago.

The U.N. at 75: A Conversation with Nickolay Mladenov, U.N. Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process

Nickolay Mladenov, United Nations Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process, joins CEO Dan Mariaschin for a timely conversation on everything from the recent normalization of ties between Israel and the UAE to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and helps put into context his critical role as the U.N. marks its 75th anniversary.

A Conversation on Race and Identity in the Jewish Community

An essential discussion about race and identity in the Jewish community with two important voices: Stacey Aviva Flint, Exec. Director of Congregation Bonai Shalom and Rabbi Isaiah J. Rothstein, Public Affairs Advisor for the Jewish Federations of North America. This conversation centering on Jews of Color is moderated by Eric Fusfield, B'nai B'rith International's Legislative Director.

Israel & The Gulf: Toward A Historic Peace

On the heels of the monumental Abraham Accords, Saudi Arabia and Middle East expert Dr. Michal Yaari joins us for a timely analysis of the historic normalization agreement between Israel and the UAE and what it means for the future of peace in the region. This installment of our Expert Analysis: Global Perspective series is moderated by B'nai B'rith World Center-Jerusalem Director Alan Schneider.

The U.N. at 75: A Discussion with Past Israeli Permanent Representatives to the United Nations

An extraordinary panel of former Israeli permanent representatives to the United Nations (U.N.) share their proudest accomplishments and elaborate on some of their key experiences while representing Israel at the U.N. The larger panel discussion focuses on the U.N.’s complex relationship with Israel and prospects for international cooperation as the international body marks its 75th anniversary.

Anti-Semitism on Campus: A Global Perspective

B’nai B’rith Connect hosts a panel discussion about the state of anti-Semitism on college and university campuses across the globe. The panel addresses the main challenges facing Jewish students on campus, including the prevalence of the BDS movement, modern manifestations of anti-Semitism and constraints on Jewish life.

Ambassador Danny Danon Reflects on the U.N. at 75

Ambassador Danny Danon, Israel’s outgoing permanent representative to the United Nations, joins CEO Dan Mariaschin for a discussion on Israel at the U.N. and its complex diplomatic position within the organization. Ambassador Danon reflects on his five-year tenure as the U.N. marks its 75th anniversary.

Being Jewish in the NFL: A Conversation with Geoff Schwartz

Geoff Schwartz, eight-year NFL veteran, speaks with CEO Dan Mariaschin about being Jewish in the National Football League, recent anti-Semitic posts by athletes online (including DeSean Jackson) and the response from NFL teams and players. As one of the few Jewish football players in recent years, Geoff has carved out a niche and spoken out against anti-Semitism in sports on various platforms.

Tackling Anti-Semitism and Hate in Football (Soccer for Americans)

While the COVID-19 pandemic has postponed the 2020 UEFA Football Championship, sports have remained relevant, particularly in the context of the movement for racial justice and against discrimination. Our EU Affairs team moderates a discussion between representatives of some of Europe's most prestigious football clubs and government representatives in charge of combating anti-Semitism.

Transatlantic Relations in Demanding Times

U.S. Rep. Ted Deutch and MEP Nicu Stefanuta join us as part of our Expert Analysis Series. The two discuss the state of transatlantic relations, key priorities of the U.S.-EU partnership, the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Middle-East security, tackling anti-Semitism and more. U.S. Rep. Ted Deutch is the chairman of the House Subcommittee on the Middle East, North Africa and International Terrorism. MEP Nicu Stefanuta is vice chair of the Delegation for Relations with the United States.

​A Conversation with Emily Haber, German Ambassador to the U.S.

German Ambassador to the U.S. Emily Haber sits down with CEO Dan Mariaschin to speak about a range of issues, including the simultaneous German presidencies of the EU Council and the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA), U.S.-German relations, the state of transatlantic relations, Germany’s role in combating anti-Semitism and more.

An Accelerated Push to Tackle Antisemitism: the Double German Presidency

Our EU Affairs team, together with the European Parliament Working Group against Antisemitism (WGAS) and the European Jewish Congress, bring you an important conversation about how the simultaneous German presidencies of the European Union and the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) represent an opportunity to take the fight against anti-Semitism to the next level.

B'nai B'rith Diplomatic Encounter Series: Vision for the Western Hemisphere in the 2020s 

In the latest virtual installment of our Diplomatic Encounter Series, B’nai B’rith CEO Dan Mariaschin hosts His Excellency Luis Almagro, Secretary General of the Organization of American States (OAS). Newly re-elected to a second five-year term, Secretary General Almagro discusses his vision and priorities for the 2020s, the OAS's commitment to combating discrimination and anti-Semitism in the region and more.

Conspiracies Amid the COVID-19 Crisis

​Our EU Affairs team hosts a virtual discussion among policy-makers and civil society about the current climate of disinformation, the pervasive spread of conspiracy theories amid the COVID-19 crisis and the responses emerging so far.

Remembering San Remo, 100 Years On

B'nai B'rith World Center-Jerusalem Director Alan Schneider helps us remember the 1920 San Remo Conference, a 100-year-old agreement by the international community that was the real breakthrough in diplomatic recognition for a Jewish state.

The Rising Tide of Anti-Semitism During the Coronavirus Pandemic

A special conversation with United States Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Anti-Semitism Elan S. Carr and B'nai B'rith International CEO Daniel S. Mariaschin focusing on the rising tide of anti-Semitism during the coronavirus crisis. Introductions by Scott Knapp, one of B'nai B'rith's senior vice presidents.

Live Tour of Jerusalem in Honor of Yom Yerushalayim

B'nai B'rith World Center-Jerusalem and the World Zionist Organization take viewers on a special live Jerusalem Day tour commemorating the reunification of Jerusalem and development of the city since the Six Day War.

Iran and Hezbollah Amid the COVID-19 Crisis

The B'nai B'rith EU Affairs team brings you a discussion about how the COVID-19 pandemic has made the malign influence of Iran and Hezbollah in the Middle East more clear and how the EU might respond to these threats.

The Impact of the Coronavirus on Jewish Communities in North America, Europe and Latin America

​B'nai B'rith International brings you a webinar on the impact of the coronavirus on Jewish communities in North America, Europe and Latin America. As the Global Voice of the Jewish Community, we welcome several panelists from around the world including Canada, England, France, Italy and Uruguay.

Threats to Democracy During the COVID-19 Crisis: Concerns with the Rule of Law in the EU

May 9th marks 70 years since the Schuman Declaration, the bedrock of EU solidarity, peace and prosperity. Yet the COVID-19 crisis has placed unprecedented strain on these principles. The B'nai B'rith EU Affairs team brings you a discussion about the threats to the rule of law and democracy faced by the EU and member states in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic. 

Racism and the COVID-19 Crisis

The B'nai B'rith EU Affairs team, in partnership with the European Parliament Anti-Racism and Diversity Intergroup, lead a conversation about how the coronavirus pandemic is affecting minority groups across Europe and the world.

​B'nai B'rith Diplomatic Encounter Series:
Uzbekistan on the International Stage

 Ambassador of Uzbekistan to the U.S. Javlon Vakhabov  joins CEO Dan Mariaschin to discuss Uzbek relations with the U.S. and Israel, the Uzbek Jewish community and how Uzbekistan has responded to the coronavirus pandemic. Since 2002, the B’nai B’rith International Diplomatic Encounter Series has brought together diplomats, think tank experts, professionals and B’nai B’rith members for an intimate discussion on current domestic and foreign policy issues.

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Holocaust Remembrance Day Ceremony Recognizing Jewish Rescuers, April 2020

​A Holocaust Remembrance Day Ceremony Recognizing Jewish Rescuers, produced by B'nai B'rith World Center-Jerusalem in partnership with the Committee to Recognize the Heroism of Jewish Rescuers During the Holocaust.

Katharina von Schnurbein,
​European Commission Coordinator on Combating Antisemitism
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​Katharina von Schnurbein, European Commission Coordinator on Combating Antisemitism joins CEO Dan Mariaschin to discuss the explosion in anti-Semitism stemming from the coronavirus pandemic and the European Union’s role in countering this threat. She is the EU's first coordinator on combating anti-Semitism, appointed in 2015.

Unto Every Person There Is A Name Virtual Commemoration, Yom Hashoah 2020
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​In partnership with Yad Vashem, B'nai B'rith commemorates the six million Jews who perished during the Holocaust, including one and a half million children. As the names of victims are read aloud, they are remembered. Due to COVID-19, this was a virtual ceremony broadcast live on Yom Hashoah as part of the North American Unto Every Person There is a Name program.

Guiding Our Senior Housing Community Through Coronavirus

Host CEO Dan Mariaschin in conversation with B'nai B'rith’s Center for Senior Services team as the team discusses how they are guiding our senior housing communities through the coronavirus crisis, emergency and disaster training for B’nai B’rith housing staff, and its efforts on Capitol Hill advocating for key stakeholders.