1095: Jonah Platt - "Authenticity, Jewish Identity, and the Power of Speaking Out"

Thrive LouD with Lou Diamond

What if the most ancient hate in the world is making a stunning comeback—and most people don't even realize it?

In this eye-opening episode of Thrive LouD, Lou Diamond sits down with multi-talented performer, activist, and host of the "Being Jewish" podcast, Jonah Platt. Together, they pull back the curtain on the recent explosion of antisemitism, revealing why it’s not a new phenomenon or a fleeting internet trend, but part of a centuries-old playbook that has found new fuel in today’s social media-driven world.

Key Highlights:

• Jonah’s Personal & Professional Journey: Jonah shares his evolution from a Broadway performer and producer to one of the most recognized Jewish voices online, candidly discussing how personal experiences, world events, and even being diagnosed with ADHD shaped his path.
• October 7 and Its Aftermath: Lou and Jonah dissect how the tragedy in Israel became a catalyst for a global surge in antisemitism, and what makes this wave of hate so coordinated, widespread, and insidious.
• Left vs. Right—Understanding Modern Antisemitism: The episode explores why anti-Jewish sentiment shows up differently on the political right and left, outlining how exclusion and double standards have quietly pushed Jews out of certain social circles and institutions.
• Breaking Out of Echo Chambers: Jonah explains his intentional approach to reaching non-Jewish audiences, offering practical strategies for making Jewish history, identity, and reality accessible and compelling for all.
• Turning Shock Into Action: Both Lou and Jonah discuss why now is the time for every listener—Jewish or not—to get involved, whether through speaking up, supporting education, or taking part in community initiatives.

Action Steps for Listeners:

1. Educate Yourself & Others: Use Jonah’s and Lou’s recommended resources—like the "Being Jewish" podcast or the book Jews Don’t Count—to gain a deeper understanding of Jewish identity and anti-Jewish hate.
2. Get Out of Your Algorithm Bubble: Proactively engage with diverse voices online; follow, comment, and share Jewish creators and moderate voices to help humanize complex issues.
3. Support Inclusive Education: If you’re an influencer, business leader, or educator, create space for open discussions about Jews and antisemitism, and advocate for Jewish inclusion in DEI initiatives.
4. Show Up Locally: Attend school board and town hall meetings, and encourage representation and support for Jewish groups within your community and at universities.
5. Don’t Wait for Others to Act—Start Now: Whether it’s having a conversation, supporting Jewish creators, or volunteering behind the scenes, find one actionable step and take it.

This isn’t just a conversation for the Jewish community—Jonah and Lou make it clear that fighting hatred and building bridges is everyone’s responsibility. Tune in, get inspired, and discover how you can be part of moving “the ball up the court” in the fight against bigotry and for a more inclusive future.

TIMESTAMPED OVERVIEW

00:00 "Exploring Jewish Identity in Media"

05:07 From Side Hustle to Influencer

08:59 Understanding ADHD and Self-Acceptance

12:42 Navigating Antisemitism and Identity

14:11 Resurgence of Right-Wing Antisemitism

18:11 Foreign Influence Fuels Antisemitism

21:39 Inclusive and Educational Show Success

23:29 Engage and Invest Strategically

28:26 Intentional Podcast Success

32:05 Struggling to Fully Delegate

33:23 Summer Break for Show Expansion

37:03 Inception: A Film-Only Masterpiece

40:11 FlyKit: Jet Lag Solution Product

43:25 Respect Every Role and Task