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Freakonomics Radio · August 12, 2026 · 34m 17s

What if Being a Stranger Is Actually Your Superpower? | Better in Person

Angela Buchdahl
Show Notes

Angela Buchdahl, the first Asian American to be ordained as a rabbi and now among the most influential rabbis in the world, sits down with Stephen Dubner for a Better in Person conversation. They discuss boundary-crossing, the aftermath of October 7, and whether someone can be a good Jew without believing in God. The episode explores how outsider status and identity shape leadership, belonging, and religious community.

This summary was generated from show notes and public descriptions, not from a full transcript review. Details may contain inaccuracies.

Highlights

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The Stranger's Edge
Buchdahl and Dubner discuss how crossing boundaries has shaped her life and role.
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October 7 and Its Aftermath
The conversation addresses the rupture of October 7 and the questions it raised for Jewish communities.
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Jewish Identity Without God
Buchdahl and Dubner examine whether a person can be a good Jew without belief in God.
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A First That Widens the Frame
Buchdahl's ordination as the first Asian American rabbi is a milestone that expands who can be imagined in religious leadership.
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Misc

✧Angela Buchdahl was the first Asian American to be ordained as a rabbi.
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