Adam Ruben, a writer, comedian and molecular biologist. A storytelling teacher for SpeakeasyDC, Ruben is the author of Surviving Your Stupid, Stupid Decision to Go to Grad School (Random House, 2010). He currently co-hosts “Outrageous Acts of Science” on the Science Channel.

Cantor Rochelle Helzner has served Tikvat Israel Congregation since 1984.   She was the first woman to serve in a Conservative congregation in the Washington area.  In addition to her involvement in the liturgical, educational and cultural activities of Tikvat Israel and the local community, Cantor Helzner has performed on stages throughout the country.  Locally, she has been a featured performer of Jewish music at the Kennedy Center, the Smithsonian Institution, the Embassy of Israel and Strathmore Hall. Photo by Ben Zweig

Robyn Helzner radiates a passion for Jewish music that captivates listeners. A stunning vocalist and vivid storyteller, she brings a life-long appreciationof the power of folk music to resonate across cultural boundaries. Robyn has appeared in concerts in Hong Kong, Japan, the Netherlands, and throughout the United States. The moving story of her underground performances in the former Soviet Union, which led to sold-out concerts in Moscow and St. Petersburg, was told on the Public Television program, Chanukah–A Celebration of Freedom. Robyn officiated at the first bar mitzvah held in Beijing, China. Her lively multi-media presentation, Kreplach & Dim Sum – Yes, There are Jews in China! offers a fascinating exploration of Jewish life in Asia. Robyn has released five recordings – A Fire Burns, Hearts Awaken, and Signs & Wonders feature the Robyn Helzner Trio. Clap Your Hands and I Live in the City are beloved by children worldwide. Robyn also serves as a cantor for congregations in Washington, D.C.

On-air correspondent covering the arts and culture beat for National Public Radio. Photo by Doby Photography/NPR

Yev Kirpichevsky, a standup comedian and winner of the Story League’s Story Tournament’s Audience Favorite Award. He has performed at the Black Cat, the Arts Club of Washington and the DC Arts Center.

Host and moderator of the Intelligence Squared U.S. debate series on NPR and a longtime ABC News correspondent, at one time based in Jerusalem, London, Moscow and Iran. He is completing a history of autism, to be published in 2015 by Crown.

Daren Firestone, a New York actor turned Washington lawyer. He has appeared in TV commercials and in Paul Mazursky’s 1991 film “Scenes From a Mall” (as Woody Allen and Bette Midler’s son). He practices law with Stein Mitchell Muse & Cipollone.

Shelly Goldin, an ex-banker and now professional volunteer. She developed her storytelling skills when she was president of Tikvat Israel, and she has since shared her stories in many synagogues throughout the United States and Canada.