There’s a new podcast in town, and it’s tackling a topic that most people don’t talk about—at least not this openly. The Bruchim Podcast is a fresh, thought-provoking series from Bruchim, a nonprofit that supports Jews who’ve decided not to circumcise. Hosted by filmmaker and activist Eliyahu Ungar-Sargon, the show explores stories at the intersection of Jewish identity, tradition, and bodily autonomy.
In Episode 2, titled “A Complicated Complication,” Eli sits down with bestselling author Gary Shteyngart, who opens up about his traumatic circumcision at age seven. After immigrating to the U.S. from the Soviet Union, Shteyngart’s family was pressured by ultra-Orthodox Jews to “complete” his Jewish identity with a bris. What followed was a painful, botched procedure that led to years of physical complications and multiple surgeries.
Gary tells the story with the same sharp wit and honesty that’s made him a literary star—but this time, it’s personal. Really personal. He reflects on the emotional impact, the cultural pressures his family faced, and why he’s speaking out now.
Whether you’ve never thought much about circumcision or have strong feelings about it, this episode brings something new to the table. It’s raw, eye-opening, and deeply human.
🎧 Listen to the episode: Bruchim Podcast – Episode 2
WANT TO LEARN MORE ABOUT BRUCHIM? JOIN ITS OPEN-TO-ALL GATHERING THIS SUNDAY. REGISTER HERE.
