Celebrating 5785: Reflections on Jewish Identity and Growth Through Travel
As we enter the new Jewish year, 5785, and look forward to Sukkot, I’m especially grateful for the meaningful opportunities this past year has brought. Sukkot invites us to celebrate the harvest, a time of gathering and giving thanks for the hard work we’ve done throughout the year. For me, this season feels like a chance to appreciate the journey of writing Brave-ish: One Breakup, Six Continents, and Feeling Fearless After Fifty and the privilege of sharing it with audiences around the world, especially through Jewish platforms that welcomed me so warmly. Here’s a look back at these memorable conversations that allowed me to connect deeply, reflect on my Jewish identity, and celebrate the themes that Brave-ish brings to life.
Brave-ish On Jewish Sacred Aging
SHOW 1: Brave-Ish on Jewish Sacred Aging
Joining Rabbi Richard Address on Jewish Sacred Aging’s Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast was a privilege. We explored the resilience, courage, and self-discovery at the core of Brave-ish, reflecting on how these qualities help us adapt to life’s inevitable changes. Rabbi Address’s thoughtful insights brought a new layer of meaning to the book’s themes, highlighting how Jewish values can guide us through challenges and inspire us to be fearless in our pursuit of growth. This conversation reminded me of the strength and wisdom found within our community, especially when we face the unknown.
Lisa On Too Jewish
SHOW 2: Lisa on Too Jewish
It was a pleasure to sit down with Rabbi Sam Cohon on his radio show, Too Jewish, to discuss Brave-ish, my Jewish upbringing, and the ongoing role of heritage in shaping my life. Rabbi Cohon’s insightful questions brought me back to the values that have guided me since childhood, from resilience to curiosity, which have deeply influenced my approach to life and travel. Reflecting on how my roots continue to shape my journey, both in my writing and my adventures, was a wonderful reminder of the lasting impact of community and tradition.
Lisa On SEARCH For MEANING
SHOW 3: Lisa on Search for Meaning
I had the joy of joining Senior Rabbi Yoshi Zweiback on Search for Meaning, where we discussed my path as a travel writer, author, and Stephen Wise Temple Board member. Our conversation touched on Brave-ish’s debut as Amazon’s top solo travel title and the journey I’ve traveled in writing, publishing, and sharing this book. Beyond the podcast, it was an honor to speak at Wise Years at Temple and to give a Friday night sermon, connecting with my own community on topics that matter deeply to us all. Rabbi Yoshi’s curiosity and thoughtfulness helped me reflect on how community and personal discovery are woven together in my life, and it was a privilege to be welcomed in these multiple ways at Stephen Wise Temple.
Brave-ish’s Lisa Niver: Traveling, Foodie Adventures & Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins Recipe
SHOW 4: Brave-ish’s Lisa Niver on Taste Buds with Deb
On Taste Buds with Deb, I joined Deb Eckerling to discuss my culinary adventures, travel-friendly foods, and go-to travel tips for keeping energized on the road. Sharing my Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins recipe with listeners felt like a sweet way to bring a taste of my journey to the audience. This conversation brought a fresh angle to our discussion, highlighting the small joys and memorable flavors that add a special richness to life on the road. Talking with Deb about food was a beautiful reminder of the shared connections we all find in something as simple, yet powerful, as a favorite recipe.
SHOW 5: Lisa on The Jewish Lens
On The Jewish Lens podcast, I had the pleasure of chatting with host Jonathan Rosen. We discussed a wide range of topics, from my work hosting travel programs and my podcast Make Your Own Map to my experiences as an on-set teacher at Nickelodeon and, of course, the journey behind my memoir Brave-ish. Jonathan’s questions invited me to share unique aspects of my story and explore the intersections of teaching, travel, and storytelling in ways that have shaped my life and career.
Looking Ahead in 5785
As we celebrate Sukkot and the beginning of a new year, I feel especially grateful for the seeds of connection, storytelling, and resilience planted through these conversations. Each host offered a unique perspective, encouraging me to explore the intersections of travel, Jewish identity, and personal growth in ways I hadn’t fully considered before. The warmth of each community that welcomed Brave-ish—and the invitation to share my story with others seeking adventure, inspiration, and courage—has been a deeply rewarding experience. Moving forward into 5785, I look forward to nurturing these seeds, sharing more of what I’ve learned, and inspiring others to embark on their own journeys of discovery with open hearts and minds.
Learn more about BRAVE-ish through the many podcast interviews, articles and TV programs that my memoir has been featured on–CLICK HERE for my PRESS PAGE!
I have been writing for the Jewish Journal for thirteen years! Click here to see all my articles.
