What happens when your conversion is accepted in one community but rejected in another?
This episode dives into the remarkable journey of Danielle Tomson, a scholar of political communication and Jewish convert, who shares how her path to Judaism reshaped her life, identity, and spirituality. From her early encounters with Jewish friends in Pittsburgh to deep involvement at Yale and New York’s Orthodox communities, Danielle reflects on how she found her place within Jewish tradition—even navigating the complexities of undergoing two conversions.
She also explores the meaning of Yom Kippur, describing how the High Holidays evolved from feelings of guilt to a season of joy, healing, and spiritual repair. With insights ranging from sea glass metaphors to the politics of conversion recognition worldwide, Danielle offers a refreshing and deeply personal perspective that resonates with seekers, lifelong Jews, and anyone exploring faith, identity, and belonging.
Key Takeaways
Timestamps:
[00:00] First Yom Kippur as a new Jew – Danielle’s emotional experience in Central Park
[02:10] Danielle introduces herself: background, studies, and first conversion story
[04:00] High school in Squirrel Hill and first Jewish friendships
[06:00] Discovering Orthodoxy, Yale experiences, and struggle to find a conversion path
[10:25] Family ancestry, Jewish connections, and stories of possible Jewish lineage
[13:09] Why Danielle converted twice and the politics of recognition
[19:40] Deep dive into halacha, learning shochet skills, and continued Jewish study
[28:01] Rethinking Yom Kippur: from guilt to joy through teshuva
[37:34] Fasting for the first time – challenges and how she prepared
[43:00] Experiences with ultra-Orthodox communities and finding beauty in diversity
Links