IsraelCast

Jewish National Fund

A podcast powered by Jewish National Fund where we'll be sharing with you stories of interesting people doing fascinating work all over Israel. #poweredbyJNF

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22 episodes
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Avg 1 hr 3 min
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Episodes 22

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Yesterday · 52 min
Charles Asher Small: Uncovering the Influences Behind Rising Antisemitism
As antisemitism continues to rise around the world, what forces are driving its spread, and how are they shaping public attitudes toward Jews and Israel? On this episode of IsraelCast, host Steven Shalowitz welcomes Charles Asher Small to explore the historical roots and modern evolution of antisemitism. Charles examines the influence of extremist ideologies, the Muslim Brotherhood, and foreign funding from countries like Qatar on universities and Western institutions. Drawing on ISGAP's research, he discusses how antisemitic narratives spread through education, media, and society, and the growing challenges facing Jewish communities. Listen as Steven and Charles explore why understanding these influences, confronting dangerous ideologies, and strengthening education are essential to combating antisemitism and protecting democratic values.
October 15 · 50 min
Sarit Zehavi: Living on the Front Lines of Israel's Future
In this episode of IsraelCast, host Steven Shalowitz welcomes back Lieutenant Colonel (Res.) Sarit Zehavi for an in-depth conversation about Israel's security challenges, the ongoing threat of Hezbollah, and the battle against misinformation. Zehavi addresses the controversial documentary Naza, offering her perspective on its portrayal of Israeli military operations and explaining the complexities of military decision-making and efforts to protect civilians. She also examines Hezbollah's influence in Lebanon, its extensive propaganda network, and Iran's role in supporting the terrorist organization.
October 2 · 2 hr 17 min
Tal Shoham – Life in Gaza's Tunnels: A Survivor's Story
Host Steven Shalowitz speaks with former hostage Tal Shoham, who was abducted from Kibbutz Be'eri on October 7 and held in Gaza for 505 days. Tal recalls the terrifying moments of barricading with his family and ultimately surrendering to prevent a deadly attack—an instinct he later learned likely saved their lives. After an initial period of solitary confinement and transfers between apartments, he was moved underground, where he spent over eight months in tunnels.
September 17 · 1 hr 5 min
Extremism, Propaganda, and the Fight Against Antisemitism
On this episode of IsraelCast, host Steven Shalowitz sits down with Catherine Perez-Shakdam for a candid conversation on extremism, antisemitism, and the forces shaping the Middle East and the West. Drawing from her firsthand experiences, Catherine discusses the influence of Iran, the Muslim Brotherhood, and Qatar, as well as the role propaganda can play in shaping attitudes toward Israel and the Jewish people. She also reflects on October 7, the rise of antisemitism, and why knowing our history and strengthening Jewish identity are so important for the next generation. A powerful conversation about confronting hatred, understanding the world around us, and standing proudly in who we are.
September 8 · 1 hr 30 min
The American Jewish Divide: Politics, Religion, Israel, and Identity
On this episode of IsraelCast, host Steven Shalowitz and Professor Roberta Rosenthal Kwall explore the growing polarization within American Jewry and the political, religious, and ideological divides shaping the Jewish community today. From debates over Israel, Zionism, and antisemitism to the impact of labels and ideological "teams," Professor Kwall examines what is driving Jews further apart and how respectful disagreement can help bridge those divides. Together, they discuss finding common ground, strengthening connections across denominations, and fostering a greater sense of shared Jewish peoplehood.
August 19 · 44 min
Zero to 100: Inside Israel's Elite Unit 669
In this episode of IsraelCast, host Steven Shalowitz sits down with Captain (Res.) Bar Reuven for an inside look at Unit 669, the Israeli Air Force's elite combat search and rescue unit. Bar reveals what it takes to earn a place in one of the IDF's most selective units, where thousands compete for only a handful of spots and training prepares soldiers for everything from battlefield evacuations to underwater, cliff, and aerial rescues. Bar reflects on the unprecedented demands placed on Unit 669 following October 7, its role in evacuating wounded soldiers and assisting rescued hostages, and the split-second, life-or-death decisions its members carry with them long after a mission ends.
August 6 · 1 hr 9 min
Ira Kohler: The Story Behind Once a Paratrooper
What compels a young man from Long Island to leave behind the comforts of home and enlist in the Israel Defense Forces as a Lone Soldier? In this powerful episode of IsraelCast, Ira Kohler shares the extraordinary journey that took him from studying economics at the University of Delaware to serving in the IDF's elite 890th Paratroopers Battalion after making Aliyah in 2022. When Hamas launched its devastating October 7 attack, Ira found himself thrust into some of the war's fiercest fighting, including the battle for Kibbutz Be'eri, before spending more than 100 days operating inside Gaza. He reflects on the realities of combat, the bonds forged between soldiers, the sacrifices of those who fell—including his childhood friend Omer Neutra—and the enduring sense of purpose that carried him through war. Now back in the United States, Ira has transformed his experiences into his memoir, Once a Paratrooper, and has become a sought-after public speaker, sharing an intimate and deeply personal perspective on courage, service, resilience, and the profound connection between the Jewish people and Israel.
July 22 · 1 hr 7 min
Aryeh Green on Finding Peace in the Promised Land
In this episode of IsraelCast, Steven Shalowitz sits down with author, policy advisor, and Israel advocate Aryeh Green to discuss his new book, Finding Peace in the Promised Land. Drawing on decades of experience in public diplomacy, policy, and regional engagement, Green presents a new approach to resolving the Arab Israel conflict through five transformative principles: humility, acceptance, gratitude, forgiveness, and purpose. Green explains how these ideas were inspired by his personal experiences and expanded through years of working to promote freedom, democracy, and stronger relationships across the Middle East. The conversation explores the role of education, religious leadership, media, governance, and grassroots engagement in creating the conditions for lasting peace. Green also reflects on the lessons of the Abraham Accords, the challenges that continue to shape the region, and why meaningful change requires both courageous leadership and cultural transformation.
July 8 · 57 min
Changing the Narrative: Rawan Osman's Journey
In this episode of IsraelCast, Steven Shalowitz speaks with Rawan Osman about her extraordinary personal journey and the experiences that transformed her understanding of Israel, Judaism, and the Middle East. Growing up in Lebanon and Syria, Rawan was taught to view Israel and the Jewish people as enemies. She shares how an unexpected encounter with members of the Jewish community led her to question those beliefs, setting her on a path of research, self-discovery, and ultimately, conversion to Judaism. The conversation also explores the impact of October 7, the future of the Abraham Accords, the possibility of peace between Israel and its neighbors, and the challenges posed by rising extremism and misinformation. Through her unique perspective, Rawan offers a compelling look at the power of education, dialogue, and personal relationships to challenge deeply held assumptions and build a more hopeful future.
June 24 · 50 min
Judge Roy K. Altman on History, Evidence, and the Law
In this engaging episode of IsraelCast, Steven Shalowitz sits down with Judge Roy K. Altman to discuss his new book, Israel on Trial: Examining the History, the Evidence, and the Law. Drawing on history, archaeology, and international law, Altman addresses some of the most common accusations leveled against Israel, including claims of colonialism, apartheid, occupation, and genocide. He also shares insights from leading educational delegations to Israel and discusses how firsthand experience can challenge widely held misconceptions. The conversation explores Jewish indigeneity, the power of historical evidence, the rise of misinformation in the post–October 7 landscape, and the importance of defending truth in an age of growing polarization. Thoughtful and timely, this episode offers listeners a deeper understanding of the narratives shaping the conversation around Israel today.
June 11 · 46 min
The History They Don't Teach: Melissa Brodsky on Truth, Propaganda, and Israel
In this episode of IsraelCast, host Steven Shalowitz welcomes independent writer and researcher Melissa Brodsky, author of The Lioness Writes on Substack. Known for her meticulous use of primary sources and documented evidence, Melissa explores the historical blind spots, propaganda networks, and modern-day narratives shaping how Israel and the Jewish people are discussed today. This episode dives into lesser-known chapters of Jewish and Israeli history, including the displacement of Jews from Arab lands, Soviet influence on Palestinian nationalism, and the selective moral outrage often directed at Israel by countries such as Ireland and Spain. They also discuss the dangers of historical ignorance, the rise of antisemitic rhetoric online and on campuses, and the importance of confronting misinformation with facts. The conversation also turns personal, as Melissa reflects on losing friends after October 7, navigating online hate, and building communities of truth-seekers and allies. From Jewish pirates in Jamaica to the enduring lessons of history, this episode is a powerful reminder that knowing the past is essential to understanding the present. Melissa Brodsky is an independent writer and researcher who has made it her mission to document what many would rather ignore. She publishes long-form investigative research and commentary on her Substack, The Lioness Writes, where she has built a readership of more than 4,600 subscribers and reaches an audience of approximately 50,000 followers on Facebook. Her work has also appeared in the Jewish News Syndicate and The Jewish Star.
May 27 · 50 min
Strength After Survival: Sarri Singer on Trauma, Healing, and Resilience
In this deeply moving episode of IsraelCast, Steven Shalowitz sits down with Sarri Singer to discuss survival, trauma, and the lifelong journey of healing after terror. Sarri recounts the events of June 11, 2003, when she survived the bombing of Jerusalem's No. 14 bus, sharing the split-second decisions that saved her life and the emotional aftermath that followed. She reflects on the impact of both 9/11 and the Jerusalem attack, the resilience she witnessed in Israeli society, and how those experiences ultimately led her to found Strength to Strength.
May 13 · 50 min
War, Intelligence, and the Future of Israel: A Conversation with Yaakov Katz
In this episode of IsraelCast, Yaakov Katz joins Steven Shalowitz for an in-depth conversation about the intelligence failures, political assumptions, and regional dynamics that shaped the October 7 attacks and continue to impact Israel today. Drawing from his bestselling book While Israel Slept, Katz explains how Israel underestimated Hamas, the breakdowns within the intelligence community, and the lessons the country must learn to prevent another national tragedy. The conversation also explores Israel's ongoing challenges in Gaza, the evolving threat from Iran and Hezbollah, the fragile state of the U.S.-Israel relationship, and the growing importance of public diplomacy in an increasingly polarized world. Katz offers candid insight into Israel's internal divisions, the emotional toll of prolonged war, and why true national healing remains elusive. Thoughtful, urgent, and deeply informative, this episode provides listeners with a clearer understanding of the forces shaping Israel's present and the difficult choices that will define its future.
April 29 · 50 min
Israel at 78: Resilience, Reality, and the Road Ahead
Speaking with host Steven Shalowitz, Shahar Azani returns to IsraelCast for a timely conversation on Israel at 78, the resilience of Israeli society, and the global challenges facing the Jewish people. Azani reflects on Israel's enduring optimism after October 7, the strength of Jewish identity on college campuses, and the importance of educating others amid rising misinformation and antisemitism. The conversation also explores the broader Middle East, including Iran, Hezbollah, Lebanon, Turkey, Qatar's influence on American universities, and Europe's shifting relationship with Israel. Through personal stories and analysis, Azani offers a hopeful perspective on Israel's future, the strength of Jewish unity, and the responsibility each person has to speak up, stay informed, and remain optimistic in uncertain times.
April 15 · 1 hr 13 min
Peace, Modernity, and the Changing Middle East with Hussain Abdul-Hussain
In this episode of IsraelCast, Steven Shalowitz welcomes back Hussain Abdul-Hussain to discuss his new book, The Arab Case for Israel. Drawing on history, geopolitics, and his own personal journey from Iraq and Lebanon to Washington, D.C., Hussain argues that normalization with Israel is not only possible, but in the strategic interest of Arab states and societies. He explores how Iran's aggression has reshaped Gulf thinking, why Egypt and Jordan's "cold peace" has fallen short of its potential, and how the Abraham Accords offer a far more promising people-to-people model. The conversation also examines Lebanon's future, Saudi Arabia's calculations, Qatar's double game, and the roots of anti-Israel narratives in both Arab nationalism and political Islam. Along the way, Hussain reflects on culture, identity, and what it means to challenge deeply entrenched orthodoxies from within the Arab world. This is a candid, provocative, and deeply informed conversation about peace, modernity, and the changing Middle East.
April 10 · 1 hr 6 min
Healing, Resilience, and Inclusion: Inside ADI Negev-Nahalat Eran
IsraelCast host Steven Shalowitz speaks with Elie Klein, North American Director of Advancement and JNF-USA liaison for ADI Negev-Nahalat Eran, a groundbreaking rehabilitation village in Israel's South. Located near the Gaza border, this one-of-a-kind community provides residential care, education, and advanced medical rehabilitation for individuals with severe disabilities while fostering a model of true inclusion.
March 18 · 1 hr 4 min
South Africa, Media, and the War on Truth
In this episode of IsraelCast, host Steven Shalowitz sits down with journalist and commentator Rolene Marks for a wide-ranging and timely conversation on Israel, South Africa, media, and modern antisemitism. Drawing on her background as a South African-born Israeli journalist, Marks offers sharp insight into the deteriorating relationship between South Africa and Israel, the political motivations behind Pretoria's hostility, and the broader international forces shaping anti-Israel narratives.
March 9 · 57 min
Inside Iran's Regime: Beni Sabti on War, Freedom, and the Fight Ahead
In this timely episode of IsraelCast, host Steven Shalowitz speaks with Iran expert Beni Sabti for a timely and deeply personal conversation recorded from near Tel Aviv in the midst of missile sirens and shelter runs. Sabti, born in Iran and now a leading researcher at the Institute for National Security Studies, brings a rare lens shaped by lived experience under the Islamic Revolution and decades of work analyzing Iranian culture, propaganda, and regime behavior.
February 18 · 56 min
Israel's 21st Century Pioneers
IsraelCast host Steven Shalowitz welcomes Amit Meir, CEO & Founder of Adam V'Adama, a Jewish National Fund-USA high school network launched with Hashomer HaChadash, another of the organization's affiliates, to strengthen Israeli agriculture and deepen young Israelis' connection to the land. Speaking from one of their campuses in Israel's South, Meir traces his journey from a farming family and an elite Israel Defense Forces Search & Rescue unit to building a bold alternative to traditional schooling—one rooted in responsibility, leadership, and Zionist purpose.
February 4 · 59 min
Iran on the Brink: The Axis of Aggressors and a Middle East in Flux
IsraelCast host Steven Shalowitz speaks with Jonathan Schanzer, executive director of the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies, about what FDD calls the "axis of aggressors" — China, Russia, and Iran — and how Iran's internal turmoil could reshape the Middle East. Schanzer describes Iran's long-running protest cycle, severe economic collapse, and the regime's vulnerability after major Israeli and U.S. strikes, then outlines three possible U.S. paths: renewed diplomacy, degrading Iran's military capabilities, or pursuing full regime decapitation. They discuss whether Iran's military will fire on its own people, and the regime's reliance on proxy forces. Schanzer explains Iran's global networks, including links through Venezuela and Hezbollah's illicit finance routes, and argues Iran's "axis of resistance" is unusually weakened. The conversation also covers shifting regional power dynamics, Saudi Arabia and the Abraham Accords (including Indonesia), concerns about Egypt and Jordan, and confusion over President Trump's "Board of Peace." They close on the value of history, anti-Semitism's recurring patterns, and Schanzer's book on Gaza as a warning sign.

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