Great Neck Teens Launch Podcast to Combat Antisemitism and Celebrate Jewish Identity
In an era marked by a resurgence of antisemitism, two Great Neck high school students, Abby Badalov and Letizia Kaya, have taken a proactive stance against hate by launching their podcast, “Stand Proud, Stand Jewish.” This platform serves as a vibrant space for celebrating Jewish identity, sharing diverse perspectives within the community, and debunking misinformation surrounding Judaism. What started as a passion project between two friends has rapidly blossomed into a forum for engaging discussions with peers, community leaders, and influential figures.
Abby, a senior at Great Neck South High School, and Letizia, a junior at Great Neck North High School, bring unique experiences and perspectives to their collaborative endeavor. Abby, of Bukharian heritage, balances her passion for law, political advocacy, and spirituality with her involvement in her school’s Jewish Student Union. Letizia, whose family hails from Persia and Turkey, finds a strong connection to her Jewish identity through the traditions of Shabbat meals and the rich cultural heritage they represent. Both young women see their Jewish faith as both a privilege and a responsibility, particularly in light of the historical persecution faced by their ancestors. This awareness fuels their commitment to Zionism and their desire to create a platform where nuanced conversations about complex topics can take place.
The “Stand Proud, Stand Jewish” podcast officially debuted in November 2024, but the duo had already begun producing regular episodes by March 2025. For Abby, the podcast evolved from her work with a non-profit focused on teen health empowerment. She felt a strong desire to expand her advocacy efforts into a more personal realm, focusing on an issue close to her heart. Despite the demands of high school, Abby and Letizia found the time and energy to dedicate to their project, driven by their passion and commitment. The most rewarding aspect, according to Abby, has been the opportunity to connect with diverse individuals and gain valuable insights from their experiences.
The genesis of the podcast can be traced to specific experiences that galvanized Abby and Letizia’s resolve to address antisemitism and advocate for their community. Letizia recounts a disturbing encounter at a Model Congress conference at Yale University, where she confronted a student who expressed virulent anti-Jewish sentiments and disturbing justifications for violence against Israelis. This incident solidified Letizia’s sense of purpose and reinforced the importance of presenting factual information, even in the face of resistance.
For Abby, the impetus for action emerged closer to home. Observing the disconnect between many of her Jewish peers and their heritage, coupled with the spread of misinformation about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict on social media platforms like TikTok, Abby realized the need to educate her classmates about both Judaism and Israel. She recognized that negative opinions about Israel often stem from a lack of understanding about Jewish culture and values. This realization shaped the direction of the podcast, focusing on exploring the richness and diversity of Jewish life beyond the political sphere.
Since its inception, “Stand Proud, Stand Jewish” has hosted a diverse array of guests, including community leaders, Jewish influencers, and prominent figures in the Jewish world. Among their interviewees are Melinda Strauss, a well-known Jewish content creator; Daniella Namadar, a kosher food influencer; and Moshe Kinderlehrer, co-publisher of The Jewish Link. They also featured Aaron Hekmati, director of the Jewish Student Union at Great Neck South, who shared his personal journey to religious observance. The podcast actively seeks out individuals who embody Jewish pride and contribute to the betterment of the community.
Building this platform has been a source of immense pride for both Letizia and Abby. While they acknowledge that their podcast is still growing, they remain confident in their ability to expand its reach, driven by their unwavering passion and dedication. They express gratitude for the opportunity to share their perspectives, educate others, and foster meaningful dialogue. Both teens have ambitious plans for the future, envisioning careers in law, political science, or diplomatic affairs, while continuing to nurture and expand their podcast.
The “Stand Proud, Stand Jewish” podcast represents more than just a passion project. It’s a testament to the resilience and determination of two young women to combat antisemitism, celebrate their Jewish heritage, and empower their peers to stand strong in their identity. Their voices, though young, resonate with conviction and carry a clear message: to stand proud, stand strong, and stand Jewish. Their journey is a powerful reminder of the impact individuals can make in the face of adversity and the importance of using their voices to create positive change. Their podcast stands as a beacon of hope and inspiration for the Jewish community and beyond, demonstrating the power of dialogue, education, and unwavering commitment to fighting hate and promoting understanding.
