Orthodox conversion rules are less about faith—and more about politics.

In an age where Jewish identity is more fluid and fragmented than ever, this episode dives deep into the soul of Orthodox conversion—and why it's at a pivotal turning point. Listeners will hear how Project Ruth is building not just programs, but pathways—redefining what it means to truly belong in the Jewish peoplehood while staying deeply rooted in halachic integrity. The discussion spans global Jewish communities, questions of legitimacy, and how to prepare for a Jewish future that honors both heritage and inclusion.

Rabbi Jon Leener and Rabbi Adam Gindea—leaders in educational innovation and spiritual guidance—share personal stories and bold visions on how Orthodox conversion can be compassionate, robust, and future-proof. Whether you’re questioning Jewish identity, curious about conversion, or thinking about community from a generational lens, this episode opens the door wider while keeping the mezuzah firmly on.

Key Takeaways

1. Orthodox conversion needs to be more accessible without compromising its halachic integrity—this balance is central to Project Ruth’s mission.
2. Conversion isn’t just about observance—it's about community, peoplehood, and spiritual journeying across lifetimes.
3. Transparency, empathy, and a future-focused mindset are critical in making sure Jewish lineage doesn’t fracture across generations.

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Timestamps:

• [00:00] – The vision behind making conversion feel guided and relational
• [01:46] – Introduction to Project Ruth and the unique backgrounds of its rabbis
• [05:54] – The birth of the “Jewish Questions” course
• [09:16] – Why conversion is more than just a curriculum
• [11:09] – How a shul became central to conversion success
• [13:00] – The flaws in how Orthodoxy has handled conversion historically
• [17:00] – Halachic accessibility and inclusion vs. Orthodox rigidity
• [24:30] – Where do rabbis draw the red line on practice?
• [33:59] – The challenge of future recognition in stricter Orthodox circles
• [44:00] – The historical context: American democracy and modern conversion trends

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Links & Learnings

• Rabbi Adam Gindea on LinkedIn
• Rabbi Jon Leener/Prospect Heights Shul website
• Project Ruth Website
• Rabbi Adam Mintz

On October 7th, the world changed—and for some, so did their decision to embrace Judaism.

Conversion to Judaism is a deeply personal journey, but it’s also a subject of intense debate within Jewish communities. In this episode, legal scholar and New Yorker writer Professor Jeannie Sook Gerson shares her own conversion experience, detailing the complexities of Jewish identity, religious law, and the surprising ways October 7th influenced her decision.

This discussion explores the challenges faced by converts—navigating family expectations, denominational differences, and the unspoken tensions around Orthodox vs. Reform conversion standards. With insights from Rabbi Adam Mintz, founder of Project Ruth, this episode unveils the lesser-known realities of Jewish conversion, including the hidden debates over Zionism, LGBTQ+ converts, and what it truly means to become part of the Jewish people.

Key Takeaways

• Conversion to Judaism isn’t just a religious act—it’s a transformation of identity, history, and community ties.
• The Jewish world is deeply divided on who qualifies as a Jew, with Orthodox, Reform, and Conservative perspectives clashing over conversion standards.
• October 7th sparked a wave of introspection, leading some to solidify their Jewish identity—whether through conversion or a renewed sense of belonging.

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Timestamps:​

• [00:00] – Converts “join Judaism retroactively” – what this means historically and spiritually
• [01:12] – Introduction to Professor Jeannie Sook Gerson and her New Yorker article The Choosing Ones
• [03:47] – Why Jeannie expected backlash—but was shocked by the overwhelmingly positive response
• [09:32] – The hidden struggles of Orthodox converts & why some rabbis resist discussing certain conversions
• [14:51] – Project Ruth’s role in conversion & the debate over different Orthodox standards
• [21:27] – How October 7th sparked conversions—people realizing their connection to the Jewish people
• [28:48] – Navigating dual identities: Jeannie’s experience as a Korean American Jew
• [34:45] – The “Christmas dilemma” for Jewish converts—how to handle interfaith family traditions
• [41:57] – The controversy over LGBTQ+ conversions in Orthodox Judaism & pushback Rabbi Mintz received
• [46:39] – Final thoughts: Why the conversation on conversion matters for the Jewish future

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Links

• Jeannie Suk Gersen on X
• Converting to Judaism in the Wake of October 7th The New Yorker
• Top 10 Jewish Highlights from 100 Years of The New Yorker

• Project Ruth Website
• Rabbi Adam Mintz
• Meredith Berkman’s LinkedIn