Ayuni: Voices of our Jewish Grandmothers Transistor (https://transistor.fm) https://feeds.transistor.fm/ayuni-voices-of-our-jewish-grandmothers Welcome to Ayuni: Voices of Our Jewish Grandmothers, a podcast celebrating the lived stories of Middle Eastern and North African Jewish women. Ayuni, a term of endearment meaning “my eyes,” passes from grandmother to granddaughter, carrying worlds of memory, longing, and love. In each episode, we step into the hidden rooms of our histories: kitchens and henna nights, women’s songs and prayers, mikveh stories, Rosh Hodesh gatherings, and contemporary conversations about identity, silence, and voice. As we uncover the stories of the women who quietly held our families and communities together, we also make space for yours—because these histories live on when we share them. Sponsor an episode today at https://www.jewishtapestry.org/contact-donations Send us your stories at ayunivoices@gmail.com and be a part of keeping this heritage alive! 2025 Jewish Unity Through Diversity 12ea091a-0dc0-5f70-914e-488b32c07f0b yes en Tue, 24 Mar 2026 08:19:27 -0400 Tue, 24 Mar 2026 08:20:07 -0400 http://www.jewishtapestry.org https://img.transistorcdn.com/eNlDIZi-eMGIN2F4DfpECm1UR1TntMDegjz9HvCwCEI/rs:fill:0:0:1/w:1400/h:1400/q:60/mb:500000/aHR0cHM6Ly9pbWct/dXBsb2FkLXByb2R1/Y3Rpb24udHJhbnNp/c3Rvci5mbS81ZTBh/NGZhOGQxYmJjYzVj/MWRjYWJmMTkzYjVh/MjFlNy5wbmc.jpg Ayuni: Voices of our Jewish Grandmothers http://www.jewishtapestry.org episodic Sarah Sassoon, Dalya Arussy Di Veroli, Drora Arussy Welcome to Ayuni: Voices of Our Jewish Grandmothers, a podcast celebrating the lived stories of Middle Eastern and North African Jewish women. Ayuni, a term of endearment meaning “my eyes,” passes from grandmother to granddaughter, carrying worlds of memory, longing, and love. In each episode, we step into the hidden rooms of our histories: kitchens and henna nights, women’s songs and prayers, mikveh stories, Rosh Hodesh gatherings, and contemporary conversations about identity, silence, and voice. As we uncover the stories of the women who quietly held our families and communities together, we also make space for yours—because these histories live on when we share them. Sponsor an episode today at https://www.jewishtapestry.org/contact-donations Send us your stories at ayunivoices@gmail.com and be a part of keeping this heritage alive! Welcome to Ayuni: Voices of Our Jewish Grandmothers, a podcast celebrating the lived stories of Middle Eastern and North African Jewish women. Mizrahi, Sephardi, Jewish culture, Jewish women Drora Arussy drora@unitytdiversity.com No No Bonus Episode: Heritage Words with Dr. Sarah Bunin Benor 9 9 Bonus Episode: Heritage Words with Dr. Sarah Bunin Benor full 4a9a99e8-4ee2-4862-bcb5-f358369b61df https://share.transistor.fm/s/905a0529 We are so glad that you have been enjoying Ayuni: Voices of our Jewish Grandmothers. While we're on hiatus preparing season 2 we want to introduce you to another wonderful podcast bringing to life and memory voices of our past. The podcast Heritage Words helps preserve and promote Jewish languages that may be lesser known, many of which are becoming extinct. As an example we share here an episode from Heritage Words. We look forward to hearing your stories while we are creating the next season.

This episode of Heritage Words features Dr. Karen Skinazi, who explores her diverse linguistic heritage, tracing words and expressions from her Ashkenazi mother's Yiddish-speaking background, including terms like "eggies" and "zei gezunt". She also delves into her Sephardic Egyptian-Israeli father's influence, discussing Arabic words like "do'a" and "howaga," a French children's rhyme, and Hebrew expressions.
Heritage Words - conversations about the words we inherit and the meaning they bring to our lives - is produced by the HUC Jewish Language Project and HUC Connect.
Host and producer: Sarah Bunin Benor
Assistant producer: Kyle Elbaz Fingerhut
Editor: Avishay Artsy
Video editor: Talia Ehrenberg
Theme music: Maurice El Medioni’s French and Algerian Judeo-Arabic album “Cafe Oran,” featuring the Klezmatics’ David Krakauer and Frank London, courtesy of Piranha Records.

]]> We are so glad that you have been enjoying Ayuni: Voices of our Jewish Grandmothers. While we're on hiatus preparing season 2 we want to introduce you to another wonderful podcast bringing to life and memory voices of our past. The podcast Heritage Words helps preserve and promote Jewish languages that may be lesser known, many of which are becoming extinct. As an example we share here an episode from Heritage Words. We look forward to hearing your stories while we are creating the next season.

This episode of Heritage Words features Dr. Karen Skinazi, who explores her diverse linguistic heritage, tracing words and expressions from her Ashkenazi mother's Yiddish-speaking background, including terms like "eggies" and "zei gezunt". She also delves into her Sephardic Egyptian-Israeli father's influence, discussing Arabic words like "do'a" and "howaga," a French children's rhyme, and Hebrew expressions.
Heritage Words - conversations about the words we inherit and the meaning they bring to our lives - is produced by the HUC Jewish Language Project and HUC Connect.
Host and producer: Sarah Bunin Benor
Assistant producer: Kyle Elbaz Fingerhut
Editor: Avishay Artsy
Video editor: Talia Ehrenberg
Theme music: Maurice El Medioni’s French and Algerian Judeo-Arabic album “Cafe Oran,” featuring the Klezmatics’ David Krakauer and Frank London, courtesy of Piranha Records.

]]> Thu, 12 Feb 2026 13:00:00 -0500 Dr. Sarah Bunin Beno Dr. Sarah Bunin Beno 2972 We are so glad that you have been enjoying Ayuni: Voices of our Jewish Grandmothers. While we're on hiatus preparing season 2 we want to introduce you to another wonderful podcast bringing to life and memory voices of our past. The podcast Heritage Words helps preserve and promote Jewish languages that may be lesser known, many of which are becoming extinct. As an example we share here an episode from Heritage Words. We look forward to hearing your stories while we are creating the next season.

This episode of Heritage Words features Dr. Karen Skinazi, who explores her diverse linguistic heritage, tracing words and expressions from her Ashkenazi mother's Yiddish-speaking background, including terms like "eggies" and "zei gezunt". She also delves into her Sephardic Egyptian-Israeli father's influence, discussing Arabic words like "do'a" and "howaga," a French children's rhyme, and Hebrew expressions.
Heritage Words - conversations about the words we inherit and the meaning they bring to our lives - is produced by the HUC Jewish Language Project and HUC Connect.
Host and producer: Sarah Bunin Benor
Assistant producer: Kyle Elbaz Fingerhut
Editor: Avishay Artsy
Video editor: Talia Ehrenberg
Theme music: Maurice El Medioni’s French and Algerian Judeo-Arabic album “Cafe Oran,” featuring the Klezmatics’ David Krakauer and Frank London, courtesy of Piranha Records.

]]> Mizrahi, Sephardi, Jewish culture, Jewish women No Episode 8: Women as Protectors 8 8 Episode 8: Women as Protectors full 64f1dc79-af97-4a20-be48-211708bbdef3 https://share.transistor.fm/s/c0c9644c February 5, 2026 – 18 Shevat 5786

 

Episode Summary

In this episode we tell of stories that have been passed down in our families of courageous acts by women at varying points in their lives. They serve as role models for us today as we navigate a new world but with equal opportunities to show strength and courage.

 

Enjoyed this episode? 

Please like, comment, or leave a review on your podcast platform or send us an email at ayunivoices@gmail.com

Your encouragement helps us carry these ancestral stories into the world — story by story, grandmother by grandmother.

 

Share Your Story

Every family holds a universe of memory.

If you’ve carried a song, a story, a proverb, a photograph, a silence — we welcome you to share it with us at ayunivoices@gmail.com

Your voice becomes part of our collective archive.

Email us at ayunivoices@gmail.com so we can feature your story on a future episode.

 

Stay Connected

- Instagram: @ayuni_voices

- YouTube: @JewishUnityDiversity

 

Support Our Voices

Ayuni is a labor of heart and heritage.

- Become a supporter: If you believe in preserving the lived stories of Middle Eastern and North African Jewish women, please consider supporting this work. Your contribution helps us document what was almost forgotten — and amplify what must be remembered.

-   Sponsor an episode: We partner with individuals and organizations who honor storytelling, heritage, and women’s voices. If you’d like to sponsor an episode in memory of a grandmother or in celebration of your family's story, please reach out at ayunivoices@gmail.com.

 

Theme music by Oshrat Haim

]]> February 5, 2026 – 18 Shevat 5786

 

Episode Summary

In this episode we tell of stories that have been passed down in our families of courageous acts by women at varying points in their lives. They serve as role models for us today as we navigate a new world but with equal opportunities to show strength and courage.

 

Enjoyed this episode? 

Please like, comment, or leave a review on your podcast platform or send us an email at ayunivoices@gmail.com

Your encouragement helps us carry these ancestral stories into the world — story by story, grandmother by grandmother.

 

Share Your Story

Every family holds a universe of memory.

If you’ve carried a song, a story, a proverb, a photograph, a silence — we welcome you to share it with us at ayunivoices@gmail.com

Your voice becomes part of our collective archive.

Email us at ayunivoices@gmail.com so we can feature your story on a future episode.

 

Stay Connected

- Instagram: @ayuni_voices

- YouTube: @JewishUnityDiversity

 

Support Our Voices

Ayuni is a labor of heart and heritage.

- Become a supporter: If you believe in preserving the lived stories of Middle Eastern and North African Jewish women, please consider supporting this work. Your contribution helps us document what was almost forgotten — and amplify what must be remembered.

-   Sponsor an episode: We partner with individuals and organizations who honor storytelling, heritage, and women’s voices. If you’d like to sponsor an episode in memory of a grandmother or in celebration of your family's story, please reach out at ayunivoices@gmail.com.

 

Theme music by Oshrat Haim

]]> Thu, 05 Feb 2026 08:00:00 -0500 Sarah Sassoon, Dalya Arussy Di Veroli, Drora Arussy Sarah Sassoon, Dalya Arussy Di Veroli, Drora Arussy 2530 February 5, 2026 – 18 Shevat 5786

 

Episode Summary

In this episode we tell of stories that have been passed down in our families of courageous acts by women at varying points in their lives. They serve as role models for us today as we navigate a new world but with equal opportunities to show strength and courage.

 

Enjoyed this episode? 

Please like, comment, or leave a review on your podcast platform or send us an email at ayunivoices@gmail.com

Your encouragement helps us carry these ancestral stories into the world — story by story, grandmother by grandmother.

 

Share Your Story

Every family holds a universe of memory.

If you’ve carried a song, a story, a proverb, a photograph, a silence — we welcome you to share it with us at ayunivoices@gmail.com

Your voice becomes part of our collective archive.

Email us at ayunivoices@gmail.com so we can feature your story on a future episode.

 

Stay Connected

- Instagram: @ayuni_voices

- YouTube: @JewishUnityDiversity

 

Support Our Voices

Ayuni is a labor of heart and heritage.

- Become a supporter: If you believe in preserving the lived stories of Middle Eastern and North African Jewish women, please consider supporting this work. Your contribution helps us document what was almost forgotten — and amplify what must be remembered.

-   Sponsor an episode: We partner with individuals and organizations who honor storytelling, heritage, and women’s voices. If you’d like to sponsor an episode in memory of a grandmother or in celebration of your family's story, please reach out at ayunivoices@gmail.com.

 

Theme music by Oshrat Haim

]]> Role Models, Mizrahi Jews, Iraqi Jews, Yemenite Jews, Libyan Jews, Women’s Voices, Oral History, Cultural Memory, Middle Eastern Jewish History, Diaspora Stories, Jewish Heritage No Episode 7: We Sing, Thereby We Preserve 7 7 Episode 7: We Sing, Thereby We Preserve full 529c7221-cd31-436f-8432-c27740fb627e https://share.transistor.fm/s/7fb6777d January 29, 2026 – 11 Shevat 5786

 

Episode Summary

In this episode we explore the world of women’s songs, often sung in the local Jewish dialect. We delve into the meanings of the words of the songs as well as the significance in the act of women singing. It is an discovery of a rich culture through song.

 

Enjoyed this episode? 

Please like, comment, or leave a review on your podcast platform or send us an email at ayunivoices@gmail.com

Your encouragement helps us carry these ancestral stories into the world — story by story, grandmother by grandmother.

 

Share Your Story

Every family holds a universe of memory.

If you’ve carried a song, a story, a proverb, a photograph, a silence — we welcome you to share it with us at ayunivoices@gmail.com

Your voice becomes part of our collective archive.

Email us at ayunivoices@gmail.com so we can feature your story on a future episode.

 

  • Become a supporter: Your contribution helps us document what was almost forgotten — and amplify what must be remembered. www.tinyurl.com/JuNiTDiDonate 
  • Sponsor an episode: reach out at ayunivoices@gmail.com. 

Thank you to Oshrat Haim for the opening vocals. You can see Oshrat on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQURf3eoiUUD3hMqC4Ey0QA Instagram, Facebook, and Apple Music.

Stay Connected
- Instagram: @ayunivoices

- YouTube: @JewishUnityDiversity

- Jewish Unity Through Diversity registration: https://www.unitytdiversity.com/contact-donations

]]> January 29, 2026 – 11 Shevat 5786

 

Episode Summary

In this episode we explore the world of women’s songs, often sung in the local Jewish dialect. We delve into the meanings of the words of the songs as well as the significance in the act of women singing. It is an discovery of a rich culture through song.

 

Enjoyed this episode? 

Please like, comment, or leave a review on your podcast platform or send us an email at ayunivoices@gmail.com

Your encouragement helps us carry these ancestral stories into the world — story by story, grandmother by grandmother.

 

Share Your Story

Every family holds a universe of memory.

If you’ve carried a song, a story, a proverb, a photograph, a silence — we welcome you to share it with us at ayunivoices@gmail.com

Your voice becomes part of our collective archive.

Email us at ayunivoices@gmail.com so we can feature your story on a future episode.

 

  • Become a supporter: Your contribution helps us document what was almost forgotten — and amplify what must be remembered. www.tinyurl.com/JuNiTDiDonate 
  • Sponsor an episode: reach out at ayunivoices@gmail.com. 

Thank you to Oshrat Haim for the opening vocals. You can see Oshrat on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQURf3eoiUUD3hMqC4Ey0QA Instagram, Facebook, and Apple Music.

Stay Connected
- Instagram: @ayunivoices

- YouTube: @JewishUnityDiversity

- Jewish Unity Through Diversity registration: https://www.unitytdiversity.com/contact-donations

]]> Thu, 29 Jan 2026 12:18:24 -0500 Sarah Sassoon, Dalya Arussy Di Veroli, Drora Arussy Sarah Sassoon, Dalya Arussy Di Veroli, Drora Arussy 2005 January 29, 2026 – 11 Shevat 5786

 

Episode Summary

In this episode we explore the world of women’s songs, often sung in the local Jewish dialect. We delve into the meanings of the words of the songs as well as the significance in the act of women singing. It is an discovery of a rich culture through song.

 

Enjoyed this episode? 

Please like, comment, or leave a review on your podcast platform or send us an email at ayunivoices@gmail.com

Your encouragement helps us carry these ancestral stories into the world — story by story, grandmother by grandmother.

 

Share Your Story

Every family holds a universe of memory.

If you’ve carried a song, a story, a proverb, a photograph, a silence — we welcome you to share it with us at ayunivoices@gmail.com

Your voice becomes part of our collective archive.

Email us at ayunivoices@gmail.com so we can feature your story on a future episode.

 

  • Become a supporter: Your contribution helps us document what was almost forgotten — and amplify what must be remembered. www.tinyurl.com/JuNiTDiDonate 
  • Sponsor an episode: reach out at ayunivoices@gmail.com. 

Thank you to Oshrat Haim for the opening vocals. You can see Oshrat on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQURf3eoiUUD3hMqC4Ey0QA Instagram, Facebook, and Apple Music.

Stay Connected
- Instagram: @ayunivoices

- YouTube: @JewishUnityDiversity

- Jewish Unity Through Diversity registration: https://www.unitytdiversity.com/contact-donations

]]> Mizrahi, Jewish Culture, Jewish Women, Women's Songs, Diaspora Stories, Grandmothers Jewish Language, Oral History, Cultural Memory, Middle Eastern Jewish History, Jewish Heritage No Episode 6: Shabbat, Like Women, Centers the Family 6 6 Episode 6: Shabbat, Like Women, Centers the Family full b953c7cd-1437-4986-95d8-a406bd800fe7 https://share.transistor.fm/s/de09f60e January 15, 2026 – 26 Tevet 5786

 

Episode Summary

In this episode we dive into Shabbat memories from our homes to the homes of our ancestors. We discuss the preparations, scents ant he meaning of this day – then and now.

 

Enjoyed this episode? 

Please like, comment, or leave a review on your podcast platform or send us an email at ayunivoices@gmail.com

Your encouragement helps us carry these ancestral stories into the world — story by story, grandmother by grandmother.

 

Share Your Story

Every family holds a universe of memory.

If you’ve carried a song, a story, a proverb, a photograph, a silence — we welcome you to share it with us at ayunivoices@gmail.com

Your voice becomes part of our collective archive.

Email us at ayunivoices@gmail.com so we can feature your story on a future episode.

 

Stay Connected

- Instagram: @ayuni_voices

- YouTube: @JewishUnityDiversity

 

Support Our Voices

Ayuni is a labor of heart and heritage.

- Become a supporter: If you believe in preserving the lived stories of Middle Eastern and North African Jewish women, please consider supporting this work. Your contribution helps us document what was almost forgotten — and amplify what must be remembered.

-   Sponsor an episode: We partner with individuals and organizations who honor storytelling, heritage, and women’s voices. If you’d like to sponsor an episode in memory of a grandmother or in celebration of your family's story, please reach out at ayunivoices@gmail.com.

 

Theme music by Oshrat Haim

]]> January 15, 2026 – 26 Tevet 5786

 

Episode Summary

In this episode we dive into Shabbat memories from our homes to the homes of our ancestors. We discuss the preparations, scents ant he meaning of this day – then and now.

 

Enjoyed this episode? 

Please like, comment, or leave a review on your podcast platform or send us an email at ayunivoices@gmail.com

Your encouragement helps us carry these ancestral stories into the world — story by story, grandmother by grandmother.

 

Share Your Story

Every family holds a universe of memory.

If you’ve carried a song, a story, a proverb, a photograph, a silence — we welcome you to share it with us at ayunivoices@gmail.com

Your voice becomes part of our collective archive.

Email us at ayunivoices@gmail.com so we can feature your story on a future episode.

 

Stay Connected

- Instagram: @ayuni_voices

- YouTube: @JewishUnityDiversity

 

Support Our Voices

Ayuni is a labor of heart and heritage.

- Become a supporter: If you believe in preserving the lived stories of Middle Eastern and North African Jewish women, please consider supporting this work. Your contribution helps us document what was almost forgotten — and amplify what must be remembered.

-   Sponsor an episode: We partner with individuals and organizations who honor storytelling, heritage, and women’s voices. If you’d like to sponsor an episode in memory of a grandmother or in celebration of your family's story, please reach out at ayunivoices@gmail.com.

 

Theme music by Oshrat Haim

]]> Thu, 15 Jan 2026 12:29:06 -0500 Sarah Sassoon, Dalya Arussy Di Veroli, Drora Arussy Sarah Sassoon, Dalya Arussy Di Veroli, Drora Arussy 2398 January 15, 2026 – 26 Tevet 5786

 

Episode Summary

In this episode we dive into Shabbat memories from our homes to the homes of our ancestors. We discuss the preparations, scents ant he meaning of this day – then and now.

 

Enjoyed this episode? 

Please like, comment, or leave a review on your podcast platform or send us an email at ayunivoices@gmail.com

Your encouragement helps us carry these ancestral stories into the world — story by story, grandmother by grandmother.

 

Share Your Story

Every family holds a universe of memory.

If you’ve carried a song, a story, a proverb, a photograph, a silence — we welcome you to share it with us at ayunivoices@gmail.com

Your voice becomes part of our collective archive.

Email us at ayunivoices@gmail.com so we can feature your story on a future episode.

 

Stay Connected

- Instagram: @ayuni_voices

- YouTube: @JewishUnityDiversity

 

Support Our Voices

Ayuni is a labor of heart and heritage.

- Become a supporter: If you believe in preserving the lived stories of Middle Eastern and North African Jewish women, please consider supporting this work. Your contribution helps us document what was almost forgotten — and amplify what must be remembered.

-   Sponsor an episode: We partner with individuals and organizations who honor storytelling, heritage, and women’s voices. If you’d like to sponsor an episode in memory of a grandmother or in celebration of your family's story, please reach out at ayunivoices@gmail.com.

 

Theme music by Oshrat Haim

]]> Shabbat, Mizrahi Jews, Iraqi Jews, Yemenite Jews, Libyan Jews, Women’s Voices, Oral History, Cultural Memory, Middle Eastern Jewish History, Diaspora Stories, Jewish Heritage No Episode 5: Evil Eye Practices - Finding Control in the Uncontrollable 5 5 Episode 5: Evil Eye Practices - Finding Control in the Uncontrollable full 43e001a1-d430-4ff5-b0fa-e8fa3e57063f https://www.unitytdiversity.com/podcast-1 January 8, 2026 – 19 Tevet 5786

In this episode we explore memories of our grandmothers’ evil eye rituals and search for meaning in those practices for today. While Sarah grew up with these rituals close to home, and in her home, Dalya shares that her family’s connection to such practices were only brought to her attention recently. It’s an interesting discussion that takes part in a larger conversation of the meeting of East and West.


Enjoyed this episode? 

Please like, comment, or leave a review on your podcast platform or send us an email at ayunivoices@gmail.com

Your encouragement helps us carry these ancestral stories into the world — story by story, grandmother by grandmother.


Share Your Story

Every family holds a universe of memory.

If you’ve carried a song, a story, a proverb, a photograph, a silence — we welcome you to share it with us at ayunivoices@gmail.com

Your voice becomes part of our collective archive.

Email us at ayunivoices@gmail.com so we can feature your story on a future episode.


Stay Connected

- Instagram: @ayuni_voices

- YouTube: @JewishUnityDiversity


Support Our Voices

Ayuni is a labor of heart and heritage.

- Become a supporter: If you believe in preserving the lived stories of Middle Eastern and North African Jewish women, please consider supporting this work. Your contribution helps us document what was almost forgotten — and amplify what must be remembered.

-   Sponsor an episode: We partner with individuals and organizations who honor storytelling, heritage, and women’s voices. If you’d like to sponsor an episode in memory of a grandmother or in celebration of your family's story, please reach out at ayunivoices@gmail.com.

 

Theme music by Oshrat Haim


]]> January 8, 2026 – 19 Tevet 5786

In this episode we explore memories of our grandmothers’ evil eye rituals and search for meaning in those practices for today. While Sarah grew up with these rituals close to home, and in her home, Dalya shares that her family’s connection to such practices were only brought to her attention recently. It’s an interesting discussion that takes part in a larger conversation of the meeting of East and West.


Enjoyed this episode? 

Please like, comment, or leave a review on your podcast platform or send us an email at ayunivoices@gmail.com

Your encouragement helps us carry these ancestral stories into the world — story by story, grandmother by grandmother.


Share Your Story

Every family holds a universe of memory.

If you’ve carried a song, a story, a proverb, a photograph, a silence — we welcome you to share it with us at ayunivoices@gmail.com

Your voice becomes part of our collective archive.

Email us at ayunivoices@gmail.com so we can feature your story on a future episode.


Stay Connected

- Instagram: @ayuni_voices

- YouTube: @JewishUnityDiversity


Support Our Voices

Ayuni is a labor of heart and heritage.

- Become a supporter: If you believe in preserving the lived stories of Middle Eastern and North African Jewish women, please consider supporting this work. Your contribution helps us document what was almost forgotten — and amplify what must be remembered.

-   Sponsor an episode: We partner with individuals and organizations who honor storytelling, heritage, and women’s voices. If you’d like to sponsor an episode in memory of a grandmother or in celebration of your family's story, please reach out at ayunivoices@gmail.com.

 

Theme music by Oshrat Haim


]]> Thu, 08 Jan 2026 11:17:14 -0500 Sarah Sassoon, Dalya Arussy Di Veroli, Drora Arussy Sarah Sassoon, Dalya Arussy Di Veroli, Drora Arussy 2559 January 8, 2026 – 19 Tevet 5786

In this episode we explore memories of our grandmothers’ evil eye rituals and search for meaning in those practices for today. While Sarah grew up with these rituals close to home, and in her home, Dalya shares that her family’s connection to such practices were only brought to her attention recently. It’s an interesting discussion that takes part in a larger conversation of the meeting of East and West.


Enjoyed this episode? 

Please like, comment, or leave a review on your podcast platform or send us an email at ayunivoices@gmail.com

Your encouragement helps us carry these ancestral stories into the world — story by story, grandmother by grandmother.


Share Your Story

Every family holds a universe of memory.

If you’ve carried a song, a story, a proverb, a photograph, a silence — we welcome you to share it with us at ayunivoices@gmail.com

Your voice becomes part of our collective archive.

Email us at ayunivoices@gmail.com so we can feature your story on a future episode.


Stay Connected

- Instagram: @ayuni_voices

- YouTube: @JewishUnityDiversity


Support Our Voices

Ayuni is a labor of heart and heritage.

- Become a supporter: If you believe in preserving the lived stories of Middle Eastern and North African Jewish women, please consider supporting this work. Your contribution helps us document what was almost forgotten — and amplify what must be remembered.

-   Sponsor an episode: We partner with individuals and organizations who honor storytelling, heritage, and women’s voices. If you’d like to sponsor an episode in memory of a grandmother or in celebration of your family's story, please reach out at ayunivoices@gmail.com.

 

Theme music by Oshrat Haim


]]> Evil Eye, Mizrachi, sephardi, Jewish heritage, Grandmother remedies, henna, Mizrahi Jews, Yemenite Jews, Libyan Jews,Mizrahi Jews, Iraqi Jews, Yemenite Jews, Libyan Jews, Women’s Voices, Oral History, Cultural Memory, Middle Eastern Jewish History, Diaspora Stories No Episode 4: Henna - protecting the girls, preserving tradition 4 4 Episode 4: Henna - protecting the girls, preserving tradition full 7455096b-d9f7-4b64-aa9c-60940b34fe52 https://www.unitytdiversity.com/podcast-1 January 1, 2026 - 12 Tevet 2786

In this episode we explore our memories from our own henna ceremonies and the meaning of such events – then and now. We discuss the meaning these ceremonies hold for us, for our grandmothers and for our heritage.


Enjoyed this episode? 

Please like, comment, or leave a review on your podcast platform or send us an email at ayunivoices@gmail.com

Your encouragement helps us carry these ancestral stories into the world — story by story, grandmother by grandmother.

Share Your Story

Every family holds a universe of memory. If you’ve carried a song, a story, a proverb, a photograph, a silence — we welcome you to share it with us at ayunivoices@gmail.com

Your voice becomes part of our collective archive. Email us at ayunivoices@gmail.com so we can feature your story on a future episode.

Stay Connected

- Instagram: @ayuni_voices

- YouTube: @JewishUnityDiversity

Support Our Voices

Ayuni is a labor of heart and heritage.

- Become a supporter: If you believe in preserving the lived stories of Middle Eastern and North African Jewish women, please consider supporting this work. Your contribution helps us document what was almost forgotten — and amplify what must be remembered.

-   Sponsor an episode: We partner with individuals and organizations who honor storytelling, heritage, and women’s voices. If you’d like to sponsor an episode in memory of a grandmother or in celebration of your family's story, please reach out at ayunivoices@gmail.com.

 

Mentioned in this episode:

1.     Noam Sienna, scholar of Jewish culture and history, henna artist

2.    Joan Roth, world-renowned photographer of Jewish women

3.    Leah Avraham, singer, dancer and choreographer of Yemenite Jewish songs
4.    Merav Roseman, author of "Shimu Kola" about Jewish women in Sana'a https://www.merav-books.com/

 

Theme music by Oshrat Haim

]]> January 1, 2026 - 12 Tevet 2786

In this episode we explore our memories from our own henna ceremonies and the meaning of such events – then and now. We discuss the meaning these ceremonies hold for us, for our grandmothers and for our heritage.


Enjoyed this episode? 

Please like, comment, or leave a review on your podcast platform or send us an email at ayunivoices@gmail.com

Your encouragement helps us carry these ancestral stories into the world — story by story, grandmother by grandmother.

Share Your Story

Every family holds a universe of memory. If you’ve carried a song, a story, a proverb, a photograph, a silence — we welcome you to share it with us at ayunivoices@gmail.com

Your voice becomes part of our collective archive. Email us at ayunivoices@gmail.com so we can feature your story on a future episode.

Stay Connected

- Instagram: @ayuni_voices

- YouTube: @JewishUnityDiversity

Support Our Voices

Ayuni is a labor of heart and heritage.

- Become a supporter: If you believe in preserving the lived stories of Middle Eastern and North African Jewish women, please consider supporting this work. Your contribution helps us document what was almost forgotten — and amplify what must be remembered.

-   Sponsor an episode: We partner with individuals and organizations who honor storytelling, heritage, and women’s voices. If you’d like to sponsor an episode in memory of a grandmother or in celebration of your family's story, please reach out at ayunivoices@gmail.com.

 

Mentioned in this episode:

1.     Noam Sienna, scholar of Jewish culture and history, henna artist

2.    Joan Roth, world-renowned photographer of Jewish women

3.    Leah Avraham, singer, dancer and choreographer of Yemenite Jewish songs
4.    Merav Roseman, author of "Shimu Kola" about Jewish women in Sana'a https://www.merav-books.com/

 

Theme music by Oshrat Haim

]]> Thu, 01 Jan 2026 13:14:19 -0500 Sarah Sassoon, Dalya Arussy Di Veroli, Drora Arussy Sarah Sassoon, Dalya Arussy Di Veroli, Drora Arussy 2179 January 1, 2026 - 12 Tevet 2786

In this episode we explore our memories from our own henna ceremonies and the meaning of such events – then and now. We discuss the meaning these ceremonies hold for us, for our grandmothers and for our heritage.


Enjoyed this episode? 

Please like, comment, or leave a review on your podcast platform or send us an email at ayunivoices@gmail.com

Your encouragement helps us carry these ancestral stories into the world — story by story, grandmother by grandmother.

Share Your Story

Every family holds a universe of memory. If you’ve carried a song, a story, a proverb, a photograph, a silence — we welcome you to share it with us at ayunivoices@gmail.com

Your voice becomes part of our collective archive. Email us at ayunivoices@gmail.com so we can feature your story on a future episode.

Stay Connected

- Instagram: @ayuni_voices

- YouTube: @JewishUnityDiversity

Support Our Voices

Ayuni is a labor of heart and heritage.

- Become a supporter: If you believe in preserving the lived stories of Middle Eastern and North African Jewish women, please consider supporting this work. Your contribution helps us document what was almost forgotten — and amplify what must be remembered.

-   Sponsor an episode: We partner with individuals and organizations who honor storytelling, heritage, and women’s voices. If you’d like to sponsor an episode in memory of a grandmother or in celebration of your family's story, please reach out at ayunivoices@gmail.com.

 

Mentioned in this episode:

1.     Noam Sienna, scholar of Jewish culture and history, henna artist

2.    Joan Roth, world-renowned photographer of Jewish women

3.    Leah Avraham, singer, dancer and choreographer of Yemenite Jewish songs
4.    Merav Roseman, author of "Shimu Kola" about Jewish women in Sana'a https://www.merav-books.com/

 

Theme music by Oshrat Haim

]]> Henna, Mizrahi Jews, Iraqi Jews, Yemenite Jews, Libyan Jews, Women’s Voices, Oral History, Cultural Memory, Middle Eastern Jewish History, Diaspora Stories, Middle Eastern Food No Episode 3: Food as Memory 3 3 Episode 3: Food as Memory full ef0ce445-4786-4c73-849f-2a590959223a https://share.transistor.fm/s/b80c1874 December 25, 2025 - 5 Tevet 5786

“Food is our grandmothers’ love language”

Episode Summary
In this episode we delve into memories deeply associated with the kitchen, from the aromas and tastes to the wisdom and culture passed down while cooking. Our grandmothers poured hours into making food to fill the stomachs and hearts of their descendants, but it wasn’t just that – it was hours spent with other women, supporting each other and lifting each other up. Join us as we delve into these memories and discuss how we keep this culture alive.

Please like, comment, or leave a review on your podcast platform or send us an email at ayunivoices@gmail.com

Your encouragement helps us carry these ancestral stories into the world — story by story, grandmother by grandmother.

Share Your Story
Every family holds a universe of memory. If you’ve carried a song, a story, a proverb, a photograph, a silence — we welcome you to share it with us at ayunivoices@gmail.com Stay Connected Instagram: @ayuni_voices Support Our Voices Ayuni is a labor of heart and heritage. 

  • Become a supporter: Your contribution helps us document what was almost forgotten — and amplify what must be remembered. www.tinyurl.com/JuNiTDiDonate 
  • Sponsor an episode: reach out at ayunivoices@gmail.com. 

Thank you to Oshrat Haim for the opening vocals. You can see Oshrat on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQURf3eoiUUD3hMqC4Ey0QA Instagram, Facebook, and Apple Music.

Stay Connected
- Instagram: @ayunivoices

- YouTube: @JewishUnityDiversity

- Jewish Unity Through Diversity registration: https://www.unitytdiversity.com/contact-donations

 Sarah’s Nana’s T’bit Recipe:
1. Chicken Stuffing - Inside Rice Ingredients: 1 cup Jasmine rice (rinsed and soaked for 15 min) 1/4 cup mincemeat or small chicken or meat pieces 2 big tomatoes diced 1/2 tsp paprika 1/2 tsp cardamom 1/4 tsp pepper 1 tsp salt 1/2 tsp cinnamon 1/2 tsp turmeric Method: 

  • Mix all the stuffing ingredients together in a bowl. 

 2. Chicken Preparation Notably the stuffed chicken in t’bit is called chashwa. Ingredients: 1 whole chicken, cleaned. Method: 

  • Stuff the whole chicken cavity with the stuffing and sew, with a sterilized needle, the cavity, skin to skin, closed. 

 Note - Optional easier versions 

  • Instead of sewing the cavity, close with toothpicks. 
  • You can opt to skip the chicken stuffing completely and just cook pieces of chicken within the outside rice, following steps 3 and 4. 

 3. Base Sauce of T’bit 
Ingredients: 
oil for pan 
1 small onion chopped 
4 cloves of garlic chopped 
4 tomatoes chopped small 
1/2 a finger of ginger chopped small or grated 
2 tspn salt 
1/2 tspn pepper 
Heaped tablespoon of tomato paste 
1/2 tspn paprika 
1/4 tspn cinnamon 
1/2 tspn baharat* 
3 1/2 cups of boiling water (720 ml) 

Method: 

  • Heat a drizzle of oil at the bottom of a big pot, just enough to cover the surface. 
  • When hot add one at a time in order, starting with the onion, the garlic, then the ginger. 
  • Sauté until golden. 
  • Add the tomato, salt, pepper, tomato paste, paprika, cinnamon and baharat: 
  • Add the stuffed chicken and crisp on each side for about 4-5 minutes. 

 4. T’bit Outside Rice 
Ingredients: 
4 cups rice 
1 tbsp salt 
(Soak in water for 2 hours. But if you don’t have time 20 minutes should be fine. Drain.) 

Method: 

  • Remove browned chicken from the pan and set aside. 
  • Combine the sauce ingredients in a bowl with the drained rice and mix. 
  • Layer about 1/2 of the mixture in the bottom of the pan 1.5 cm (1/2 inch) at the bottom. 
  • Place chicken, breast side up, and nestle in the rest of rice. 
  • Add 3 1/2 cups (720 ml) boiling water to just about cover. 
  • Optional add washed eggs in their shells (as many as you like) 
  • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer on a small fire. Cover the pot until cooked, about 15-20 minutes. 
  • Cover pot with parchment and lid and put in a low oven (about 110 C or 230 F) or on a hot plate, before Shabbat until Shabbat lunch. Beware that the hotplate isn’t too hot and may burn the bottom. If on hotplate cover with towels or blanket. 

 Hilbeh – A San'ani version

  •  ½ cup finely ground fenugreek seeds 
  • ¼ cup diced tomatoes 
  • Place ground fenugreek seeds into a bowl 
  • Cover with water 
  • Rinse three times over the course of three hours 
  • Leave fourth round of water in the bowl and add tomato, leave in refrigerator overnight 
  • Pour out water 
  • Cover risen mixture with new water (ok if tomatoes rinse out) and whip until it peaks 


  • In a separate bowl prepare zhug (if you don’t like spicy, you don’t have to add the zhug) 
  • 2 heads of garlic – finely minced 
  • Mix of fresh and dried hot peppers finely minced – to taste 2 pieces of dried coriander- ground 
  • Water to cover 
  • Blend well 


  • In a third bowl prepare to grind together 
  • ¼ cup black pepper 
  • ½ cup freshly ground cumin 
  • 4 pieces “hel” 
  • 2 cloves 


  • Whip together all three mixtures in a large bowl until slime-like 
  • Enjoy! 


Links & Resources
Linda Dangoor, Flavors of Babylon: A Family Cookbook
Linda Dangoor, From the Tigris to the Thames
Oded Halahmy, Iraqi Cooking: Exile is Home
Sarah Sassoon, This is not a Cholent

For Sephardic and Mizrahi recipes and food stories check out Sephardic Spice Girls https://sephardicspicegirls.com/

]]> December 25, 2025 - 5 Tevet 5786

“Food is our grandmothers’ love language”

Episode Summary
In this episode we delve into memories deeply associated with the kitchen, from the aromas and tastes to the wisdom and culture passed down while cooking. Our grandmothers poured hours into making food to fill the stomachs and hearts of their descendants, but it wasn’t just that – it was hours spent with other women, supporting each other and lifting each other up. Join us as we delve into these memories and discuss how we keep this culture alive.

Please like, comment, or leave a review on your podcast platform or send us an email at ayunivoices@gmail.com

Your encouragement helps us carry these ancestral stories into the world — story by story, grandmother by grandmother.

Share Your Story
Every family holds a universe of memory. If you’ve carried a song, a story, a proverb, a photograph, a silence — we welcome you to share it with us at ayunivoices@gmail.com Stay Connected Instagram: @ayuni_voices Support Our Voices Ayuni is a labor of heart and heritage. 

  • Become a supporter: Your contribution helps us document what was almost forgotten — and amplify what must be remembered. www.tinyurl.com/JuNiTDiDonate 
  • Sponsor an episode: reach out at ayunivoices@gmail.com. 

Thank you to Oshrat Haim for the opening vocals. You can see Oshrat on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQURf3eoiUUD3hMqC4Ey0QA Instagram, Facebook, and Apple Music.

Stay Connected
- Instagram: @ayunivoices

- YouTube: @JewishUnityDiversity

- Jewish Unity Through Diversity registration: https://www.unitytdiversity.com/contact-donations

 Sarah’s Nana’s T’bit Recipe:
1. Chicken Stuffing - Inside Rice Ingredients: 1 cup Jasmine rice (rinsed and soaked for 15 min) 1/4 cup mincemeat or small chicken or meat pieces 2 big tomatoes diced 1/2 tsp paprika 1/2 tsp cardamom 1/4 tsp pepper 1 tsp salt 1/2 tsp cinnamon 1/2 tsp turmeric Method: 

  • Mix all the stuffing ingredients together in a bowl. 

 2. Chicken Preparation Notably the stuffed chicken in t’bit is called chashwa. Ingredients: 1 whole chicken, cleaned. Method: 

  • Stuff the whole chicken cavity with the stuffing and sew, with a sterilized needle, the cavity, skin to skin, closed. 

 Note - Optional easier versions 

  • Instead of sewing the cavity, close with toothpicks. 
  • You can opt to skip the chicken stuffing completely and just cook pieces of chicken within the outside rice, following steps 3 and 4. 

 3. Base Sauce of T’bit 
Ingredients: 
oil for pan 
1 small onion chopped 
4 cloves of garlic chopped 
4 tomatoes chopped small 
1/2 a finger of ginger chopped small or grated 
2 tspn salt 
1/2 tspn pepper 
Heaped tablespoon of tomato paste 
1/2 tspn paprika 
1/4 tspn cinnamon 
1/2 tspn baharat* 
3 1/2 cups of boiling water (720 ml) 

Method: 

  • Heat a drizzle of oil at the bottom of a big pot, just enough to cover the surface. 
  • When hot add one at a time in order, starting with the onion, the garlic, then the ginger. 
  • Sauté until golden. 
  • Add the tomato, salt, pepper, tomato paste, paprika, cinnamon and baharat: 
  • Add the stuffed chicken and crisp on each side for about 4-5 minutes. 

 4. T’bit Outside Rice 
Ingredients: 
4 cups rice 
1 tbsp salt 
(Soak in water for 2 hours. But if you don’t have time 20 minutes should be fine. Drain.) 

Method: 

  • Remove browned chicken from the pan and set aside. 
  • Combine the sauce ingredients in a bowl with the drained rice and mix. 
  • Layer about 1/2 of the mixture in the bottom of the pan 1.5 cm (1/2 inch) at the bottom. 
  • Place chicken, breast side up, and nestle in the rest of rice. 
  • Add 3 1/2 cups (720 ml) boiling water to just about cover. 
  • Optional add washed eggs in their shells (as many as you like) 
  • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer on a small fire. Cover the pot until cooked, about 15-20 minutes. 
  • Cover pot with parchment and lid and put in a low oven (about 110 C or 230 F) or on a hot plate, before Shabbat until Shabbat lunch. Beware that the hotplate isn’t too hot and may burn the bottom. If on hotplate cover with towels or blanket. 

 Hilbeh – A San'ani version

  •  ½ cup finely ground fenugreek seeds 
  • ¼ cup diced tomatoes 
  • Place ground fenugreek seeds into a bowl 
  • Cover with water 
  • Rinse three times over the course of three hours 
  • Leave fourth round of water in the bowl and add tomato, leave in refrigerator overnight 
  • Pour out water 
  • Cover risen mixture with new water (ok if tomatoes rinse out) and whip until it peaks 


  • In a separate bowl prepare zhug (if you don’t like spicy, you don’t have to add the zhug) 
  • 2 heads of garlic – finely minced 
  • Mix of fresh and dried hot peppers finely minced – to taste 2 pieces of dried coriander- ground 
  • Water to cover 
  • Blend well 


  • In a third bowl prepare to grind together 
  • ¼ cup black pepper 
  • ½ cup freshly ground cumin 
  • 4 pieces “hel” 
  • 2 cloves 


  • Whip together all three mixtures in a large bowl until slime-like 
  • Enjoy! 


Links & Resources
Linda Dangoor, Flavors of Babylon: A Family Cookbook
Linda Dangoor, From the Tigris to the Thames
Oded Halahmy, Iraqi Cooking: Exile is Home
Sarah Sassoon, This is not a Cholent

For Sephardic and Mizrahi recipes and food stories check out Sephardic Spice Girls https://sephardicspicegirls.com/

]]> Thu, 25 Dec 2025 12:30:00 -0500 Sarah Sassoon, Dalya Arussy Di Veroli, Drora Arussy Sarah Sassoon, Dalya Arussy Di Veroli, Drora Arussy 2928 December 25, 2025 - 5 Tevet 5786

“Food is our grandmothers’ love language”

Episode Summary
In this episode we delve into memories deeply associated with the kitchen, from the aromas and tastes to the wisdom and culture passed down while cooking. Our grandmothers poured hours into making food to fill the stomachs and hearts of their descendants, but it wasn’t just that – it was hours spent with other women, supporting each other and lifting each other up. Join us as we delve into these memories and discuss how we keep this culture alive.

Please like, comment, or leave a review on your podcast platform or send us an email at ayunivoices@gmail.com

Your encouragement helps us carry these ancestral stories into the world — story by story, grandmother by grandmother.

Share Your Story
Every family holds a universe of memory. If you’ve carried a song, a story, a proverb, a photograph, a silence — we welcome you to share it with us at ayunivoices@gmail.com Stay Connected Instagram: @ayuni_voices Support Our Voices Ayuni is a labor of heart and heritage. 

  • Become a supporter: Your contribution helps us document what was almost forgotten — and amplify what must be remembered. www.tinyurl.com/JuNiTDiDonate 
  • Sponsor an episode: reach out at ayunivoices@gmail.com. 

Thank you to Oshrat Haim for the opening vocals. You can see Oshrat on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQURf3eoiUUD3hMqC4Ey0QA Instagram, Facebook, and Apple Music.

Stay Connected
- Instagram: @ayunivoices

- YouTube: @JewishUnityDiversity

- Jewish Unity Through Diversity registration: https://www.unitytdiversity.com/contact-donations

 Sarah’s Nana’s T’bit Recipe:
1. Chicken Stuffing - Inside Rice Ingredients: 1 cup Jasmine rice (rinsed and soaked for 15 min) 1/4 cup mincemeat or small chicken or meat pieces 2 big tomatoes diced 1/2 tsp paprika 1/2 tsp cardamom 1/4 tsp pepper 1 tsp salt 1/2 tsp cinnamon 1/2 tsp turmeric Method: 

  • Mix all the stuffing ingredients together in a bowl. 

 2. Chicken Preparation Notably the stuffed chicken in t’bit is called chashwa. Ingredients: 1 whole chicken, cleaned. Method: 

  • Stuff the whole chicken cavity with the stuffing and sew, with a sterilized needle, the cavity, skin to skin, closed. 

 Note - Optional easier versions 

  • Instead of sewing the cavity, close with toothpicks. 
  • You can opt to skip the chicken stuffing completely and just cook pieces of chicken within the outside rice, following steps 3 and 4. 

 3. Base Sauce of T’bit 
Ingredients: 
oil for pan 
1 small onion chopped 
4 cloves of garlic chopped 
4 tomatoes chopped small 
1/2 a finger of ginger chopped small or grated 
2 tspn salt 
1/2 tspn pepper 
Heaped tablespoon of tomato paste 
1/2 tspn paprika 
1/4 tspn cinnamon 
1/2 tspn baharat* 
3 1/2 cups of boiling water (720 ml) 

Method: 

  • Heat a drizzle of oil at the bottom of a big pot, just enough to cover the surface. 
  • When hot add one at a time in order, starting with the onion, the garlic, then the ginger. 
  • Sauté until golden. 
  • Add the tomato, salt, pepper, tomato paste, paprika, cinnamon and baharat: 
  • Add the stuffed chicken and crisp on each side for about 4-5 minutes. 

 4. T’bit Outside Rice 
Ingredients: 
4 cups rice 
1 tbsp salt 
(Soak in water for 2 hours. But if you don’t have time 20 minutes should be fine. Drain.) 

Method: 

  • Remove browned chicken from the pan and set aside. 
  • Combine the sauce ingredients in a bowl with the drained rice and mix. 
  • Layer about 1/2 of the mixture in the bottom of the pan 1.5 cm (1/2 inch) at the bottom. 
  • Place chicken, breast side up, and nestle in the rest of rice. 
  • Add 3 1/2 cups (720 ml) boiling water to just about cover. 
  • Optional add washed eggs in their shells (as many as you like) 
  • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer on a small fire. Cover the pot until cooked, about 15-20 minutes. 
  • Cover pot with parchment and lid and put in a low oven (about 110 C or 230 F) or on a hot plate, before Shabbat until Shabbat lunch. Beware that the hotplate isn’t too hot and may burn the bottom. If on hotplate cover with towels or blanket. 

 Hilbeh – A San'ani version

  •  ½ cup finely ground fenugreek seeds 
  • ¼ cup diced tomatoes 
  • Place ground fenugreek seeds into a bowl 
  • Cover with water 
  • Rinse three times over the course of three hours 
  • Leave fourth round of water in the bowl and add tomato, leave in refrigerator overnight 
  • Pour out water 
  • Cover risen mixture with new water (ok if tomatoes rinse out) and whip until it peaks 


  • In a separate bowl prepare zhug (if you don’t like spicy, you don’t have to add the zhug) 
  • 2 heads of garlic – finely minced 
  • Mix of fresh and dried hot peppers finely minced – to taste 2 pieces of dried coriander- ground 
  • Water to cover 
  • Blend well 


  • In a third bowl prepare to grind together 
  • ¼ cup black pepper 
  • ½ cup freshly ground cumin 
  • 4 pieces “hel” 
  • 2 cloves 


  • Whip together all three mixtures in a large bowl until slime-like 
  • Enjoy! 


Links & Resources
Linda Dangoor, Flavors of Babylon: A Family Cookbook
Linda Dangoor, From the Tigris to the Thames
Oded Halahmy, Iraqi Cooking: Exile is Home
Sarah Sassoon, This is not a Cholent

For Sephardic and Mizrahi recipes and food stories check out Sephardic Spice Girls https://sephardicspicegirls.com/

]]> Mizrahi, Sephardi, Jewish culture, Jewish women No Episode 2: MENA Women New Month Celebrations 2 2 Episode 2: MENA Women New Month Celebrations full 2de71da5-eaa4-4c74-be0d-aa5a1423515e https://share.transistor.fm/s/371aee29 December 18, 2025 - 29 Kislev 5786


Episode Summary

In this episode, we explore Rosh Hodesh as a historic women’s holiday—an ancient pause for renewal, rest, and sisterhood. Sources from the Cairo Genizah to the Shulḥan Arukh describe women gathering in bathhouses, refraining from work, and celebrating a day given to them for refusing to participate in the Golden Calf. Across North Africa and parts of the Middle East, Rosh Hodesh Tevet blossomed into Eid al-Banat, the Festival of the Daughters, honoring Esther, Judith, Hannah, and generations of brave women. Communities marked it with songs, feasts, blessings, and gifts. We invite you to share how you celebrate these days.


 Thank you to Oshrat Haim for the opening vocals. You can see Oshrat on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQURf3eoiUUD3hMqC4Ey0QA Instagram, Facebook, and Apple Music.

Enjoyed this episode? 

Please like, comment, or leave a review wherever you’re listening to the podcast or email us at ayunivoices@gmail.com.

Your encouragement helps us carry these ancestral stories into the world — story by story, grandmother by grandmother.


Share Your Story

Every family holds a universe of memory.

If you’ve carried a song, a story, a proverb, a photograph, a silence — we welcome you to share it with us at ayunivoices@gmail.com
What memory from your grandmother’s kitchen still warms your hands and heart?

A dish, a spice, a scent — what story does it carry?


Your voice becomes part of our collective archive.

Email us at ayunivoices@gmail.com so that we can feature your story on a future episode!


Stay Connected

- Instagram: @ayunivoices

- YouTube: @JewishUnityDiversity

- Jewish Unity Through Diversity registration: https://www.unitytdiversity.com/contact-donations

Support Our Voices
Ayuni is a labor of heart and heritage.

  • Become a supporter: If you believe in preserving the lived stories of Middle Eastern and North African Jewish women, please consider supporting this work. Your contribution helps us document what was almost forgotten — and amplify what must be remembered.

  • Sponsor an episode: We partner with individuals and organizations who honor storytelling, heritage, and women’s voices.
    If you’d like to sponsor an episode in memory of a grandmother or in celebration of your family's story, please reach out: ayunivoices@gmail.com
]]> December 18, 2025 - 29 Kislev 5786


Episode Summary

In this episode, we explore Rosh Hodesh as a historic women’s holiday—an ancient pause for renewal, rest, and sisterhood. Sources from the Cairo Genizah to the Shulḥan Arukh describe women gathering in bathhouses, refraining from work, and celebrating a day given to them for refusing to participate in the Golden Calf. Across North Africa and parts of the Middle East, Rosh Hodesh Tevet blossomed into Eid al-Banat, the Festival of the Daughters, honoring Esther, Judith, Hannah, and generations of brave women. Communities marked it with songs, feasts, blessings, and gifts. We invite you to share how you celebrate these days.


 Thank you to Oshrat Haim for the opening vocals. You can see Oshrat on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQURf3eoiUUD3hMqC4Ey0QA Instagram, Facebook, and Apple Music.

Enjoyed this episode? 

Please like, comment, or leave a review wherever you’re listening to the podcast or email us at ayunivoices@gmail.com.

Your encouragement helps us carry these ancestral stories into the world — story by story, grandmother by grandmother.


Share Your Story

Every family holds a universe of memory.

If you’ve carried a song, a story, a proverb, a photograph, a silence — we welcome you to share it with us at ayunivoices@gmail.com
What memory from your grandmother’s kitchen still warms your hands and heart?

A dish, a spice, a scent — what story does it carry?


Your voice becomes part of our collective archive.

Email us at ayunivoices@gmail.com so that we can feature your story on a future episode!


Stay Connected

- Instagram: @ayunivoices

- YouTube: @JewishUnityDiversity

- Jewish Unity Through Diversity registration: https://www.unitytdiversity.com/contact-donations

Support Our Voices
Ayuni is a labor of heart and heritage.

  • Become a supporter: If you believe in preserving the lived stories of Middle Eastern and North African Jewish women, please consider supporting this work. Your contribution helps us document what was almost forgotten — and amplify what must be remembered.

  • Sponsor an episode: We partner with individuals and organizations who honor storytelling, heritage, and women’s voices.
    If you’d like to sponsor an episode in memory of a grandmother or in celebration of your family's story, please reach out: ayunivoices@gmail.com
]]> Thu, 18 Dec 2025 14:14:27 -0500 Sarah Sassoon, Dalya Arussy Di Veroli, Drora Arussy Sarah Sassoon, Dalya Arussy Di Veroli, Drora Arussy 1893 December 18, 2025 - 29 Kislev 5786


Episode Summary

In this episode, we explore Rosh Hodesh as a historic women’s holiday—an ancient pause for renewal, rest, and sisterhood. Sources from the Cairo Genizah to the Shulḥan Arukh describe women gathering in bathhouses, refraining from work, and celebrating a day given to them for refusing to participate in the Golden Calf. Across North Africa and parts of the Middle East, Rosh Hodesh Tevet blossomed into Eid al-Banat, the Festival of the Daughters, honoring Esther, Judith, Hannah, and generations of brave women. Communities marked it with songs, feasts, blessings, and gifts. We invite you to share how you celebrate these days.


 Thank you to Oshrat Haim for the opening vocals. You can see Oshrat on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQURf3eoiUUD3hMqC4Ey0QA Instagram, Facebook, and Apple Music.

Enjoyed this episode? 

Please like, comment, or leave a review wherever you’re listening to the podcast or email us at ayunivoices@gmail.com.

Your encouragement helps us carry these ancestral stories into the world — story by story, grandmother by grandmother.


Share Your Story

Every family holds a universe of memory.

If you’ve carried a song, a story, a proverb, a photograph, a silence — we welcome you to share it with us at ayunivoices@gmail.com
What memory from your grandmother’s kitchen still warms your hands and heart?

A dish, a spice, a scent — what story does it carry?


Your voice becomes part of our collective archive.

Email us at ayunivoices@gmail.com so that we can feature your story on a future episode!


Stay Connected

- Instagram: @ayunivoices

- YouTube: @JewishUnityDiversity

- Jewish Unity Through Diversity registration: https://www.unitytdiversity.com/contact-donations

Support Our Voices
Ayuni is a labor of heart and heritage.

  • Become a supporter: If you believe in preserving the lived stories of Middle Eastern and North African Jewish women, please consider supporting this work. Your contribution helps us document what was almost forgotten — and amplify what must be remembered.

  • Sponsor an episode: We partner with individuals and organizations who honor storytelling, heritage, and women’s voices.
    If you’d like to sponsor an episode in memory of a grandmother or in celebration of your family's story, please reach out: ayunivoices@gmail.com
]]> Mizrahi Jews, Iraqi Jews, Henna Ceremony, Women’s Voices, Oral History, Cultural Memory, Middle Eastern Jewish History, Diaspora Stories No Introduction: Who Are MENA Jewish Women? 1 1 Introduction: Who Are MENA Jewish Women? full 397930e8-8e92-4a48-bdca-644a2edf2789 https://share.transistor.fm/s/54d6151e “You are dearer to me than my own eyes”


 December 14, 2025 - 25 Kislev 5786

Episode Summary

In our opening episode, we explore the heart of Ayuni: Voices of Our Jewish Grandmothers. Ayuni—“my eyes,” “dearer to me than my own eyes”—is the tender phrase many Middle Eastern Jewish grandmothers used for their children and grandchildren. We introduce who Mizrahi MENA Jews are: ancient Jewish communities from the Middle East and North Africa, most of whom were forced to leave their homelands in the mid-20th century due to persecution. Today, their descendants live mostly in Israel, carrying fragments of language, song, and memory. Much of their story—especially women’s stories—was lost or never recorded. Ayuni seeks to uncover, honor, and restore these voices.


Thank you to Oshrat Haim for the opening vocals. You can see Oshrat on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQURf3eoiUUD3hMqC4Ey0QA Instagram, Facebook, and Apple Music.

Enjoyed this episode? 

Please like, comment, or leave a review wherever you’re listening to the podcast or email us at ayunivoices@gmail.com.

Your encouragement helps us carry these ancestral stories into the world — story by story, grandmother by grandmother.


Share Your Story

Every family holds a universe of memory.

If you’ve carried a song, a story, a proverb, a photograph, a silence — we welcome you to share it with us at ayunivoices@gmail.com
What memory from your grandmother’s kitchen still warms your hands and heart?

A dish, a spice, a scent — what story does it carry?


Your voice becomes part of our collective archive.

Email us at ayunivoices@gmail.com so that we can feature your story on a future episode!


Stay Connected

- Instagram: @ayunivoices

- YouTube: @JewishUnityDiversity

- Jewish Unity Through Diversity registration: https://www.unitytdiversity.com/contact-donations

Support Our Voices
Ayuni is a labor of heart and heritage.

  • Become a supporter: If you believe in preserving the lived stories of Middle Eastern and North African Jewish women, please consider supporting this work. Your contribution helps us document what was almost forgotten — and amplify what must be remembered.

  • Sponsor an episode: We partner with individuals and organizations who honor storytelling, heritage, and women’s voices.
    If you’d like to sponsor an episode in memory of a grandmother or in celebration of your family's story, please reach out: ayunivoices@gmail.com

Mentioned in This Episode

Gabai, Nili. Ha-Ishah ha-Yehudiyah be-Bagdad. Agudat ha-aḳademaʼim yotsʼe ʻIraḳ be-Yiśraʼel, The Jewish Woman in Baghdad (Hebrew), 2006.

Links & Resources

-   Sephardic Voices: The Forgotten Exodus of the Arab Jews, Henry Green, Richard Stursberg, 2021

-   Memories of Eden, Violette Shamash, Forum, 2008 

-   Uprooted:How 3000 Years of Jewish Civilization in the Arab World Vanished Overnight, Lyn Julius, Vallentine Mitchell, 2018


]]> “You are dearer to me than my own eyes”


 December 14, 2025 - 25 Kislev 5786

Episode Summary

In our opening episode, we explore the heart of Ayuni: Voices of Our Jewish Grandmothers. Ayuni—“my eyes,” “dearer to me than my own eyes”—is the tender phrase many Middle Eastern Jewish grandmothers used for their children and grandchildren. We introduce who Mizrahi MENA Jews are: ancient Jewish communities from the Middle East and North Africa, most of whom were forced to leave their homelands in the mid-20th century due to persecution. Today, their descendants live mostly in Israel, carrying fragments of language, song, and memory. Much of their story—especially women’s stories—was lost or never recorded. Ayuni seeks to uncover, honor, and restore these voices.


Thank you to Oshrat Haim for the opening vocals. You can see Oshrat on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQURf3eoiUUD3hMqC4Ey0QA Instagram, Facebook, and Apple Music.

Enjoyed this episode? 

Please like, comment, or leave a review wherever you’re listening to the podcast or email us at ayunivoices@gmail.com.

Your encouragement helps us carry these ancestral stories into the world — story by story, grandmother by grandmother.


Share Your Story

Every family holds a universe of memory.

If you’ve carried a song, a story, a proverb, a photograph, a silence — we welcome you to share it with us at ayunivoices@gmail.com
What memory from your grandmother’s kitchen still warms your hands and heart?

A dish, a spice, a scent — what story does it carry?


Your voice becomes part of our collective archive.

Email us at ayunivoices@gmail.com so that we can feature your story on a future episode!


Stay Connected

- Instagram: @ayunivoices

- YouTube: @JewishUnityDiversity

- Jewish Unity Through Diversity registration: https://www.unitytdiversity.com/contact-donations

Support Our Voices
Ayuni is a labor of heart and heritage.

  • Become a supporter: If you believe in preserving the lived stories of Middle Eastern and North African Jewish women, please consider supporting this work. Your contribution helps us document what was almost forgotten — and amplify what must be remembered.

  • Sponsor an episode: We partner with individuals and organizations who honor storytelling, heritage, and women’s voices.
    If you’d like to sponsor an episode in memory of a grandmother or in celebration of your family's story, please reach out: ayunivoices@gmail.com

Mentioned in This Episode

Gabai, Nili. Ha-Ishah ha-Yehudiyah be-Bagdad. Agudat ha-aḳademaʼim yotsʼe ʻIraḳ be-Yiśraʼel, The Jewish Woman in Baghdad (Hebrew), 2006.

Links & Resources

-   Sephardic Voices: The Forgotten Exodus of the Arab Jews, Henry Green, Richard Stursberg, 2021

-   Memories of Eden, Violette Shamash, Forum, 2008 

-   Uprooted:How 3000 Years of Jewish Civilization in the Arab World Vanished Overnight, Lyn Julius, Vallentine Mitchell, 2018


]]> Sun, 14 Dec 2025 10:28:56 -0500 Sarah Sassoon, Dalya Arussy Di Veroli, Drora Arussy Sarah Sassoon, Dalya Arussy Di Veroli, Drora Arussy 1700 “You are dearer to me than my own eyes”


 December 14, 2025 - 25 Kislev 5786

Episode Summary

In our opening episode, we explore the heart of Ayuni: Voices of Our Jewish Grandmothers. Ayuni—“my eyes,” “dearer to me than my own eyes”—is the tender phrase many Middle Eastern Jewish grandmothers used for their children and grandchildren. We introduce who Mizrahi MENA Jews are: ancient Jewish communities from the Middle East and North Africa, most of whom were forced to leave their homelands in the mid-20th century due to persecution. Today, their descendants live mostly in Israel, carrying fragments of language, song, and memory. Much of their story—especially women’s stories—was lost or never recorded. Ayuni seeks to uncover, honor, and restore these voices.


Thank you to Oshrat Haim for the opening vocals. You can see Oshrat on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQURf3eoiUUD3hMqC4Ey0QA Instagram, Facebook, and Apple Music.

Enjoyed this episode? 

Please like, comment, or leave a review wherever you’re listening to the podcast or email us at ayunivoices@gmail.com.

Your encouragement helps us carry these ancestral stories into the world — story by story, grandmother by grandmother.


Share Your Story

Every family holds a universe of memory.

If you’ve carried a song, a story, a proverb, a photograph, a silence — we welcome you to share it with us at ayunivoices@gmail.com
What memory from your grandmother’s kitchen still warms your hands and heart?

A dish, a spice, a scent — what story does it carry?


Your voice becomes part of our collective archive.

Email us at ayunivoices@gmail.com so that we can feature your story on a future episode!


Stay Connected

- Instagram: @ayunivoices

- YouTube: @JewishUnityDiversity

- Jewish Unity Through Diversity registration: https://www.unitytdiversity.com/contact-donations

Support Our Voices
Ayuni is a labor of heart and heritage.

  • Become a supporter: If you believe in preserving the lived stories of Middle Eastern and North African Jewish women, please consider supporting this work. Your contribution helps us document what was almost forgotten — and amplify what must be remembered.

  • Sponsor an episode: We partner with individuals and organizations who honor storytelling, heritage, and women’s voices.
    If you’d like to sponsor an episode in memory of a grandmother or in celebration of your family's story, please reach out: ayunivoices@gmail.com

Mentioned in This Episode

Gabai, Nili. Ha-Ishah ha-Yehudiyah be-Bagdad. Agudat ha-aḳademaʼim yotsʼe ʻIraḳ be-Yiśraʼel, The Jewish Woman in Baghdad (Hebrew), 2006.

Links & Resources

-   Sephardic Voices: The Forgotten Exodus of the Arab Jews, Henry Green, Richard Stursberg, 2021

-   Memories of Eden, Violette Shamash, Forum, 2008 

-   Uprooted:How 3000 Years of Jewish Civilization in the Arab World Vanished Overnight, Lyn Julius, Vallentine Mitchell, 2018


]]> Mizrahi Jews, Iraqi Jews, Yemenite Jews, Libyan Jews, MENA, Women’s Voices, Oral History, Cultural Memory, Middle Eastern Jewish History, Diaspora Stories No