Stephen Cohen

Jewish Humorist
Lecture Topics: Jewish Topics
Expertise: Jewish History & Humor
Available for in-person lectures in: Chicago, South Florida
Available via Zoom?: No
To book Stephen, e-mail: dan@primetimepresenters.com, or fill out this form here.

A lifelong Chicagoan and now a seasonal Florida resident, Dr. Stephen Z. Cohen holds masters and PhD degrees from the University of Chicago. For more than 40 years he was a distinguished educator at the University of Chicago and the University of Illinois at Chicago teaching social group work practice and group psychotherapy. An early expert in the field of gerontology and services to the elderly, he co-authored a book, The Other Generation Gap: The Middle Aged and Their Aging Parents, named ‘Best Non-Fiction of the Year’ by The Society of Midland Authors. He is fluent in Hebrew.

A tried and true presenter that always delivers, Dr. Cohen is also a consultant, entertainer, humorist, freshwater fisherman and lecturer. He’s been vetted and presented by prestigious Jewish and Yiddish arts, cultural, educational, fundraising and religious organizations at hundreds of venues across the country. With a demand for high quality programming and so large a winter population of Jewish residents and visitors, much of his work during the past 15 years has been in South Florida.

I can’t give enough stars. This was wonderful and the questions were thoughtful and answered with the grace and ease of a wonderful presenter.

Parker Life Senior Living attendee after Mark’s “Let’s Put On A Show” lecture

I thought this program was very interesting. I enjoy my local theater and never knew or even imagined all the ins and outs of putting on a show. I would definitely be interested in any other program by this presenter.”

Parker Life Senior Living attendee after Mark’s “Let’s Put On A Show” lecture

“James Calaski’s lecture on national, regional, and hyper-local history was professional and highly informative. Our patrons were incredibly engaged, the delivery was well-paced and articulate… We’ll be having him back!”

Brianne Colombo
Director
Glen Rock, NJ Public Library

“Your knowledge of the German American Bund and their history is second to none… Your expertise, both from a historical and research perspective and also in the field, enabled us to capture phenomenal footage for our project… thank you for appearing in our film.”

Annette Baumeister
Documentary Film Director ('The American Führer')

“James Calaski’s gifts as a historian, coupled with his innate skills as a police detective, bring a unique perspective to his work. He is thorough in his research, always going to those places where the facts lead. All that, plus Jim’s personable style and good sense of humor make him an ideal presenter for any group event.”

Arnie Bernstein
Author of 'Swastika Nation: Fritz Kuhn and the Rise and Fall of the German-American Bund'

FANTASTIC !!! She is an incredible lecturer. Only wish more time could have been spent on each segment of her presentation. Left me wishing for more. The blend of history and literature was so interesting and informative.

Parker Life Senior Living Attendee after Myra’s American Dreams: The Immigrant Experience In US Literature lecture

Good Morning Catherine,
Thank you so much for a fabulous presentation on new Zealand last evening. Our audience loved it! I have been receiving such positive feedback and wanted to share with you the comments I received thus far. As I mentioned last night, your enthusiasm for New Zealand shines through the screen and I do hope you enjoyed it as much as we did and will return in the future.

Attendee
Parker Life Senior Living

That was a very interesting, informational presentation, I loved it! Looking forward to seeing more lectures by this presenter.

Attendee
Parker Life Senior Living

Dr Catherine Kleier presentation was just wonderful! My husband watched along with me. He enjoyed it as much as I did! Would love it if she would come back again. Her enthusiasm is contagious! We truly enjoyed her…and her lecture! Thank you very much!

Patty D.
Attendee
Parker Life Senior Living

Fascinating history of New Zealand. Her enthusiasm is contagious!

Attendee
Parker Life Senior Living
Lectures
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The Golden Age Of Jewish Humor

What makes a joke Jewish? Why are we laughing? The answers and many other insights are revealed as the collective Jewish experience is explored in hand-selected humorous material. Traveling the timeline of Jewish life from old country shtetls through immigration to and assimilation in the “goldene medina” of America, Dr. Cohen delivers a far deeper understanding than the typical stand-up comedy routine. Gain a better understanding of why Jewish humor is such an integral part of the Jewish culture. This “edutainment” isn’t just funny; it’s smarter than that! Renowned for his exceptional delivery, spot-on dialect, thoughtful commentary, and warm audience rapport, all are welcome, and one need not be Jewish to “get” the joke. Come share the laughter and reminisce. Bring a hankie; the nostalgia may induce a few tears.

Are you ready to bring Primetime Presenters to your community?

Please e-mail dan@primetimepresenters.com for additional information. We look forward to hearing from you!
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