Hate doesn't always look the same. It shifts, adapts, and often disguises itself in language that can seem reasonable on the surface. In this episode of Chosen For What?, host Tommy Schnurmacher explores how hate evolves over time, how it takes root in societies, and how it continues to impact individuals and communities today.

Neal Dalzell is a social studies teacher who teaches a class on the sociology of genocide at Centennial Regional High School in Greenfield Park, Quebec, who offers a sociological perspective on how groups begin to define "us" versus "them," and how those divisions can escalate into exclusion and violence.

Anthropologist Adam Louis-Klein shares insight into how to engage with people who hold hateful views, and what it takes to challenge those beliefs in a meaningful way.

Rabbi Lisa Grushcow, Temple Emanu-El Beth Shalom, adds another layer to the conversation, reflecting on the origins of hate and the deeper need for control and certainty that can drive it.

The episode also looks ahead, focusing on what can be done to push back against hatred in everyday life. Mollie Bowman, Managing Director of Living Links, speaks to the power of community, education, and collective action in creating change. Together, these conversations explore questions many people are asking today: What does modern hate look like? How does antisemitism evolve? And how can individuals respond in a way that is thoughtful, informed, and effective?

Chosen For What? is brought to you by the Foundation for Genocide Education, a Canadian non-profit organization dedicated to ensuring that every student understands the history and lessons of the Holocaust and other genocides. To learn more about their work, or to make a donation, please visit GenEd.org.

The new season of Chosen For What? begins with a timely and urgent conversation about the rise of antisemitism globally, and what that means for Jewish communities today. Host Tommy Schnurmacher brings together multiple voices to explore how antisemitism is showing up in modern society, how it is being experienced across generations, and why these conversations matter now more than ever.

Rabbi Lisa Grushcow offers insight into how antisemitism is being discussed and understood within Jewish communities, while Mollie Bowman, a third-generation descendant of Holocaust survivors and Managing Director of Living Links, speaks to the importance of educating young people and empowering them to respond. Shoshana Cenker shares a deeply personal perspective, reflecting on what it means to raise children in a world where fear and visibility are once again part of daily life for many Jewish families.

The episode also examines the evolving language surrounding antisemitism, including the rise of anti-Zionism in academic and public spaces. Anthropologist Adam Louis-Klein breaks down how certain narratives and terminology are being used today, and why understanding these distinctions is critical in recognizing modern forms of hate. This conversation connects directly to broader questions people are asking today, including what antisemitism looks like in 2025, how Holocaust memory shapes Jewish identity, and why Holocaust education remains essential in combating hate and misinformation.

Chosen For What? is brought to you by the Foundation for Genocide Education, a Canadian non-profit organization dedicated to ensuring that every student understands the history and lessons of the Holocaust and other genocides. To learn more about their work, or to make a donation, please visit GenEd.org.

After the incredible success of season one of Chosen For What?, we're thrilled to announce that season TWO begins on April 29th.

Season two of Chosen For What? starts April 29th, with new episodes dropping every Wednesday. Be sure to follow or subscribe, so that you don't miss a single episode!