"A Witch, Daughter of a Mamzer": Yael Braun, the Only To'enet in the United States (84)

Yael Braun is a to'enet halacha, someone who goes to the beit din (rabbinic court) in order to advocate on behalf of her clients. In fact, she says that she is the first and only to'enet halacha in the United States. What is the role of a to'enet, and has she had problems stepping into a job normally occupied only by men? But alongside telling stories and explaining the importance of her job, Yael presents a rather hopeful picture of a number of different issues. She has had a very positive experience in her interactions with Chassidish batei din; despite the common stereotype of batei din being misogynist, she has been warmly accepted and encouraged by the dayanim, or judges. Moreover, she also has seen progress on the issue of get refusal ever since the #FreeChava movement began - a movement in which she played a role. Join Scott and Yael Braun for an entertaining, enlightening, and encouraging discussion. (Listen to the whole episode: towards the beginning, Scott's ignorance about a to'enet's job will become blatantly apparent, and towards the end you'll hear Yael's very funny and appropriate rejoinder when a male to'en calls her a witch.) Please listen to and share the podcast, and let us know what you think on the Orthodox Conundrum Discussion Group on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/groups/432020081498108). Thanks to all of our Patreon subscribers, who have access to bonus JCH podcasts, merch, and more - we appreciate your help, and hope you really enjoy the extras! Visit the JCH Patreon site at https://www.patreon.com/jewishcoffeehouse. Check out https://jewishcoffeehouse.com/ for the Orthodox Conundrum and other great podcasts, and remember to subscribe to them on your favorite podcast provider. The site will also help you learn about creating your own podcast. Music: "Happy Rock" by bensound.com