Description
Sarah Hurwitz – From Political Narratives to Sacred Stories
In this episode of Detours & Destinations, Rabbi David Ingber sits down with writer, former White House speechwriter, and bestselling author Sarah Hurwitz to explore a life shaped by language, identity, and the search for meaning. After years crafting speeches for some of America’s most influential political figures — including Hillary Clinton, Barack and Michelle Obama — Hurwitz underwent an unexpected personal transformation when an Intro to Judaism class led her to rediscover the depth of Jewish tradition.
The conversation traces her journey from political speechwriting to spiritual searching, and from speaking in other people’s voices to articulating her own. Together, they explore authenticity, antisemitism, Zionism, Holocaust memory, and the growing tensions surrounding Jewish identity in America after October 7. Centered around Hurwitz’s acclaimed new book As a Jew, this episode examines how Jews understand themselves in a moment of rupture, polarization, and uncertainty — and asks what it means to reclaim Jewish identity without apology.
Learn more about Sarah’s work and read her books: https://www.sarahhurwitz.net
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Producer: Efrat Bigger
Content Editor: Maya Gayer
Video Editor: Sean Kennedy
Music By: Shimon Smith
Special Thanks: Eden Sidney Foster
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