Shoshanna Keats Jaskoll shares her journey from a childhood shaped by Holocaust trauma to becoming a prominent advocate for women's rights within the Jewish community. She discusses her experiences in Beit Shemesh, the challenges of extremism in Judaism, and the importance of health awareness for women. Shoshanna emphasizes the resilience of women, particularly in the context of captivity, and calls for community advocacy to ensure a healthy and inclusive Jewish identity. Her insights highlight the need for education and compassion in addressing the complexities of modern Judaism. Shoshanna Keats Jaskoll is a writer, speaker, podcast host and leading advocate for women’s rights within the Jewish world. Raised in a family shaped by Holocaust trauma, she has dedicated her life to challenging extremism and promoting a more compassionate, educated, and inclusive Judaism. From her home in Beit Shemesh, Shoshanna co-founded Chochmat Nashim, an organization amplifying women’s voices in Jewish life and raising awareness about issues like women’s health, representation, and equality. Her work stands at the intersection of tradition and modernity, blending deep respect for Torah values with a bold commitment to justice, resilience, and community advocacy. Follow Shoshanna on Socials Instagram: @shoshanna_keats_jaskoll X : @skjask Website: skjaskoll.com
00:00 Introduction to Shoshanna's Activism
03:02 Shoshanna's Childhood and Family Background
06:04 The Impact of Holocaust Trauma
08:39 Cultural Identity and Religious Education
11:46 Journey to Israel and Personal Growth
14:22 Life in Beit Shemesh and Community Dynamics
17:28 Exploring Gender Roles in Judaism
20:24 The Intersection of Tradition and Modernity
23:19 Shoshanna's Writing and Feminist Perspectives
28:49 The Role of the Torah in Protecting Women
31:26 Contextualizing Historical Perspectives on Gender
32:33 Fighting for Justice in Judaism
35:08 The Impact of Extremism on Jewish Women
40:29 Addressing Women's Health in Orthodox Communities
45:26 Resilience of Women in Captivity
51:14 The Current State of Israel and Hostage Situations