<p>In this episode of <em>Conversations with Alan</em>, I’m joined by <strong>Ely Winkler</strong>, Director of Advancement for <strong>Eshel</strong>, for an honest and deeply personal conversation about faith, identity, and belonging.</p><p><br></p><p>Ely shares his journey growing up Orthodox as the son of a rabbi, navigating the fear and uncertainty of coming out, and searching for a place where he could live authentically without abandoning his faith. He reflects on pivotal moments—from working behind the scenes on a groundbreaking panel at Yeshiva University to feeling disconnected from synagogue life, and ultimately finding his way back home.</p><p><br></p><p>We talk about the profound impact of discovering Eshel, what it meant for Ely personally, and how his work there now helps LGBTQ+ individuals, families, rabbis, and communities build more inclusive Orthodox spaces. Ely also speaks movingly about lessons learned from his rabbi father, the power of compassion, and how change often happens quietly—one conversation at a time.</p><p><br></p><p>This episode offers thoughtful insight, practical wisdom, and hope for anyone interested in questions of identity, tradition, and what it truly means to belong.</p>