Upside Down LA

What Is Prayer?

On this episode, Ben and Rachel are joined by Val, a fellow member of the Upside Down team, to talk about the nature of prayer. Val shares her insight in how to start praying and gives a framework for what prayer actually is.

New Beginnings

In celebration of Rosh Hashanah, Rachel and Ben sit down with Upside Down's Artist in Residence, Jake Rosen, and have a conversation centered around new beginnings. Jake weaves lessons learned throughout his life with practical advice for the Jewish New Year.

The Importance of Jewish Conversation

On this episode, Ben welcomes back Isaac Brickner, former host of the Upside Down Podcast, to talk about his new project: the Inherit Podcast. Isaac shares about the value of active listening and unique perspectives in our "sound bite" world.

Observations of Beauty: Ronen Pollak Artist Interview

In the very first episode filmed in the cafe space, Ben and Jeanne sit down with artist Ronen Pollak to talk about his solo art exhibition: "Observations of Beauty." Ronen, who was previously a part of Upside Down's "Formless and Void" art exhibition, shares more about his creative process and art's role in his upbringing.

Meet the Team: John

On this entry of the "Meet the Barista" series, Ben has a lively conversation with the one and only John. The former roommates talk about John's walk with God, his love for running, and so much more. Stay tuned until the end to hear a sneak peek of John's beatboxing skills.

Meet the Team: Abigail

It's time for another "Meet the Team" episode and it's a special one. Ben sits down with Upside Down barista, sous chef, and ultimate schmoozer: Abigail. Hear her talk about her love for swimming and running, finding God while moving across the country, and so much more.

Barista Class of 2025

On this bittersweet episode, Ben sits down with two Upside Down baristas, Justin and Isabel, who are soon to be UCLA alumni. They discuss their experience working while being full time students, give advice to college freshman, and share funny stories from their time on bar.

Gallery Talks: A Conversation with Artist Jacob Faulkner

Zemeira Walker, Upside Down's art intern, sits down with artist Jacob Faulkner during our cafe hours to talk about his pieces in our latest art exhibit, Tikkun Olam. 

Talking Tikkun Olam

On this episode of the Upside Down podcast, Rachel sits down with Jeanne and Zemeira to talk about the upcoming UCLA student art show: “Tikkun Olam.”
Tune in as they explore the deeper meaning of Tikkun Olam — the Jewish call to repair a broken world — and how student artists are responding to this moment through creativity, vulnerability, and hope.

Interview with Artist Jake Rosen: Yom HaShoah

On this episode, Rachel sits down with artist Jake Rosen to explore the powerful stories behind his paintings. Each piece reflects his mother’s experience surviving the Holocaust and Auschwitz, highlighting his deeply moving art exhibit.