Barbara Edelston Peterson and Rabbi Yael Buechler in Conversation: Kvell — A Word You Should Know

Overview

Join writer Barbara Edelston Peterson and Jewish influencer Rabbi Yael Buechler for a conversation about one of Yiddish’s most beloved words and the rich Jewish tradition of finding delight in the accomplishments, connections, and everyday moments that give life meaning — and Peterson’s new book, Kvell.

What if joy isn’t the opposite of resilience, but one of its deepest expressions? At a time when Jewish communities are navigating uncertainty and change, kvelling offers more than a fleeting feeling — it points toward a distinctly Jewish practice of gratitude, celebration, and hope.

Together, they examine how joy can be cultivated intentionally — not as an escape from the world’s challenges, but as a powerful response to them. Hear them explore the wisdom embedded in Jewish tradition, the enduring relevance of Yiddish as a language of emotional and cultural insight, and the ways embracing joy can strengthen individuals, families, and communities.

Whether you’re discovering the meaning of kvell for the first time or have long cherished the word, this conversation offers an invitation to celebrate the values, practices, and moments that help us flourish.