On The DL with Dana Levenson

Michal Ohana is a survivor of the Nova music festival massacre. Shot in the leg and bleeding, she spent seven hours hiding in terror, convinced she would not survive. Her account to Dana is a chilling window into that day's unimaginable atrocities. Michal saw friends and strangers' innocence shattered. She recalls every sound, every movement, and every heartbeat as a prayer to stay alive. This experience, etched in her mind, now fuels her mission to ensure the world knows what really happened. Speaking around the globe Michal's courage brings a voice to the silenced, urging all of us to remember and confront the raw truth. She is a beacon for justice and a reminder of why we must stand up against such evil. Michal is proof that we can and must share these stories, resist hatred, and advocate for the innocent. Another must listen.

Ella Shani a 15-year-old survivor of the October 7th attack on Kibbutz Be'eri spent 11 harrowing hours hiding in a safe room with her mother, brother, and his friend. While she survived, the toll on her family was unimaginable. Her father was murdered, her 80-year-old grandparents were shot, her uncle's home was set on fire as her cousins struggled to stay alive inside, and one of her cousins was taken hostage. Dana has spoken with many survivors, but this is her first conversation with a teenager. In their conversation, Ella shares not only the heartbreak of losing her father but also the haunting images of that day, things she wishes she could erase from her memory. Dana sits down with Ella to hear her story of survival and to understand what life has been like for this young girl who dreams of nothing more than going home and reclaiming her life.

Eylon Levy stands out as one of the most prolific and influential voices in Israel today. During Dana's recent trip to Israel she sat down over coffee with Eylon to talk about the most pressing issues. Israel is being pounded by terrorists groups on all fonts and going to war seems closer to ever. Eylon is the co-founder of the @israelcitizenspox, where you can catch live daily briefings. He is the former Israel government spokesperson and international media advisor to the president of Israel, and host of @stateofaPod.

“Israeli Jewish women are made with a different chromosome that helps them deal with grief” Iris Haim. Dana has wanted to speak with Iris Haim ever since she heard that Iris extended an invitation to the soldiers that killed her son. Yotem was taken hostage on October 7th. After 70 days in captivity an Israeli soldier tragically shot Yotem when he mistook him for a terrorist. Iris is brave, beyond resilient, and could teach very single one of us the true meaning of forgiveness.

Shai Deluca doesn't shy away from anything, not even antisemitism. The media personality and interior designer speaks to Dana about his recent heartache both at work and with many friends. Shai who is from Israel weighs in on the state of the world, and what is happening on Canadian streets. He has changed his social platforms to serve as source of education and information, often disseminating the news to provide a more truthful narrative.

In October 2015, Eitan Chitayat posted his "I'm That Jew" video on Facebook, igniting a phenomenon that resonated deeply with millions worldwide. His message reached 15 million viewers, sparking conversations and shedding light on the Jewish experience. Fast forward to October 2023, following the devastating terrorist attack on Israel and a surge in antisemitic campaigns worldwide, Eitan expanded his platform to confront hatred and educate others through his "I'm That Jew" campaign. In a meaningful conversation Dana and Eitan delve into the dehumanization faced by Jewish people and how his campaign celebrates all facets of Jewish life.Through creativity and passion, Eitan's campaign has served as a beacon of strength and solidarity, reminding the world of Jewish heritage and achievements. "I'm That Jew" empowers individuals to speak out against hate and antisemitism, fostering unity and resilience within the community and beyond. This is an incredible conversation that may leave you smiling.

Linor Attias, a trained emergency medical services volunteer with United Hatzalah in Israel, woke up on October 7th to a missile attack but soon realized that this was not the usual rocket attack being launched at Israel. With determination, she kissed her two daughters goodbye, grabbed her equipment, and made her way to the Gaza periphery. Linor shares her story, along with the stories of numerous victims, with Dana. This is yet another difficult but very important conversation. As Linor explains, Israel is fighting two battles right now: the war on the ground and the PR war around the world. She is determined to share her story because the world needs to hear the truth.

To mark international Women's Day 2024 we remember all the female victims of the Hamas attack on Israel. The subject matter is hard but this conversation is crucial. Professor Ruth Halperin-Kaddari, law professor from Israel and a previous member of the UN committee on the elimination of all forms of discrimination against women joins Dana to speak the truth about the horrendous sexual violence that took place on October 7th, and what she knows to be happening to the remaining female hostages held in Gaza. Even with the new UN report from the Special Representative of the Secretary General that finds sexual violence occurred on October 7th, there is still denial from most of the world.

"It's not about how much you want it, but how hard you're willing to work for it. Forever." These words from Suzan Galluzzo, transformation coach, holistic nutritionist, and creator of the Best of You program, summarizes a profound truth about weight loss and maintaining health goals. In an anothe candid conversation with Dana, Suzan delves into the reasons why many women struggle with regaining weight after putting in tremendous effort to lose it. Suzan shares invaluable insights into breaking the cycle of the yo-yo dilemma and offers practical strategies for sustaining long-term weight loss success. Her expertise sheds light on what women need to do to overcome these challenges and maintain their health goals effectively.

"We love our Jewishness more than they hate us for it," encapsulates the resilience and determination that echoes throughout this beautiful conversation. Dana speaks with Ben M. Freeman, an internationally renowned author, educator, and Jewish advocate. Against the backdrop of the alarming rise in anti-Semitism post the October 7th terror attack, Ben shares insights into his work and addresses the profound commonality and bond experienced by Jewish people worldwide. Ben, the founder of the modern Jewish Pride movement, delves into the significance of rejecting the shame associated with anti-Semitism. Drawing inspiration from his experiences with LGBTQ+ pride, he emphasizes the importance of empowerment and education in combating prejudice. Ben is the author of the Jewish Pride Manifesto, "Jewish Pride: Rebuilding a People," and "Jewish Pride: Reclaiming Our Story." In this critical juncture in Jewish history, Ben advocates for reclaiming pride and rejecting the burden of shame.

As a mother, a Jewish woman, and as a human being Dana knew she had to speak with Rachel Goldberg. The reason for their discussion is both heart-wrenching and urgent: Rachel's son, Hersh Goldberg Polin, suffered severe and brutal injuries during the Nova music festival in Israel on October 7th. Tragically, Hersh was taken hostage and has not been seen or heard from since. Rachel shares with Dana the depth of her determination and resilience, vowing to traverse every corner of the earth to bring her son and the other 133 hostages back. Her unwavering commitment is undeniable as she declares that she will never, ever give up until they are safely returned home. This conversation is a powerful exploration of the unbreakable bond between mothers and the lengths they are willing to go to protect and fight for their children. The shared pain and strength between Dana and Rachel create a moving narrative that resonates with the universal theme of a mother's love and unwavering determination.

Jared Armstrong is 27 years old, an African American basketball player living in Israel. Jared is also born Jewish and he has dedicted his work to building a strong alliance between African American and Jewish communities. Born Jewish, Jared passionately addresses the troubling lies surrounding Israel and the Jewish people, expressing his disdain as sickening. Jared sheds light on the pervasive propaganda machine, acknowledging its harmful influence on numerous marginalized groups. He delves into the urgent need to counteract these falsehoods that have poisoned perspectives and highlights the importance of fostering understanding, especially between the black and jewish communities. Jared shares with Dana his experiences, perspectives, and the intersection of identity and justice in a world tainted by so much misinformation.

Navigating through hard discussions, this interview is no exception. Ashley Waxman Bakshi, a Canadian-born Israeli woman, sits down with Dana to shed light on her crucial role in providing factual information about the ongoing conflict in Israel. Ashley began her on line profile as an immensely popular beauty blogger with hundreds of thousands of followers but has now redirected her platform toward disseminating the truth amid a sea of misinformation and propaganda. Dana was drawn to Ashley's daily posts, given her perspective with a master's degree in counter-terrorism, with a thesis focusing on the radical and fundamental ideologies of radical Islam. As Ashley shares with Dana, the power of truth is amplified when goodness is on your side. The conversation delves into Ashley's experiences in a war zone, the impact of woke culture on anti-Semitism, and her insights into the potential outcomes in the Middle East.

It may seem impossible to speak out and stand up to anti semitism but Claudia Chan has made a choice to use her voice. The New York Times celebrated author and life coach explains to Dana why she believes her life calling is now advocacy and allyship. Dana and Claudia have a very moving and truthful conversation about the betrayal and pain the jewish community is feeling, and how you can use your voice to become an advocate.

On The DL went live in front of a studio audience in Toronto. Dr. Heather Hirsch, a leading women's mid-life health specialist took to the stage with Dana to have a honest conversation about the realities for women in their menopausal years. Many audience members had the opportunity to ask their personal health questions, adding to the informative and enlightening conversation.

Oprah may have said it best: You cannot out run, out-earn, or out-exercise the big M. The menopause train is coming no matter what. You may have seen Dr. Heather Hirsch, a leading expert in women's mid life health on Oprah Daily. Her no bullsh*t approach to menopause is helping thousands of women as they begin their journey. 1 BILLION women around the world will go into menopause this year and still way too many continue to suffer as they are misunderstood, misdiagnosed, and underserved. How do women receive the medical care and intervention they need to navigate their health? Heather and Dana discuss how women can advocate for their health to feel their best as their body goes through this monumental change. This is a must listen episode for every women because like it or not the M Train is coming and you are getting on it.

1.5 million followers tune into the daily dose of The Real Slim Sherri. She has become the voice of Gen X, sharing her unfiltered insights with humour. Sherri Dias's short version daily videos captures the essence of 'adulting' after living through the 80's which promises you a laugh, perhaps a cry, or a mix of a good giggle with a deep thought. Sherri and Dana have an incredible chat as Sherri explains why she is committed to building a community of like minded people as she continues to disrupt the norms aging. If you are a Gen X'er this is a must listen.

Not many people can say they have been in the same job for more than half their life. Can you imagine what it would feel like to leave? Intrigued by having the courage to make a such a life-altering change, Dana needs to know. She speaks with her former co-worker and dear friend from CTV. After 34 years Austin Delaney said goodbye to CTV News. He is a Toronto icon. It has been only three days since he left his job when Austin and Dana catch up. The two CTV News alumni shared a desk for many years and reminisce about their time working closely together in the often crazy world of news. Austin also speaks candidly about the reasons why he chose to leave now, the bravery it takes to walk away from a long career, why he doesn't mind the word 'retired', and the peace he has with his decision.

Can you press the restart button on your health even when you feel that age may have taken away your ability to do so? Holistic nutritionist and Drink Juice Co founder and owner Nadia Kotsos shares why she believes you can heal yourself by adding proper nutrition into your life, and this includes drinking juice. Nadia talks to Dana about the science behind pure organic cold pressed juices and how nutrition and juice saved her life Nadia has built a successful business and dedicated her life to to the importance of juicing & health. If you live with digestive issues, skin problems, fluctuating weight, joint pain, mood disorders or mental health concerns you will want to listen this to this conversation.

When you hit mid life you start to feel different. You just do. You may have to work harder at your health. You may see changes with your body you don't like. Naturopathic physician and certified anti-aging specialist Dr. Allana Polo offers Dana her concrete advice and says your health journey has to be simple and sustainable. It is hard to cover it all but Dr. Polo and Dana unpack a lot of information on how to age well. They talk about all the things including sugar cravings, alcohol, lack of energy, DHEA, balancing hormones, libido, sleep, hair loss, weight gain, fasting and supplements. This is a must listen for every woman.

Dean McDermott and Mary Joe Eustace had a messy, chaotic, hurtful, and extremely public divorce. Their break up was headline news for months. That was 17 years ago. Today they are talking to Dana about all the things in divorce that no one wants to talk about, including their new friendship and why they still have love for each other. In their brand new podcast called Ex's & Uh Oh's Dean and MJ reveal details about their divorce journey and take back their narrative hoping to inspire other couples and families going through divorce. Yes, they talk about Tori (Spelling), who ghosted who first, and which headline news rumours were true.

You have heard of a cancer survivor but have you heard of a cancer thriver? At age 33 Renee Kaiman was diagnosed with stage IV metastatic breast cancer. That was 7 years ago. Renee tells Dana she has been fighting ever since. She had a choice to make. Either she was going to live her life saying ‘why me' or change her mindset and live everyday to the fullest. Renee decided to share her terminal diagnosis and cancer journey with the hope of inspiring others. She is beloved on social media and not just for her infectious smile and epic dance parties she hosts with her two young kids but, for her vulnerability and courage. You will love her after listening for just one minute.

Can you get high from using CBD skincare? That would be a resounding NO. Co-founder of wellness brand Nuveev, Samantha Marchiano speaks with Dana about the benefits of CBD infused products and dispels the myths surrounding the powerful plant. Samantha who is a skincare specialist and makeup artist explains how the plant has some of the most powerful antioxidants and anti inflammatory properties to help restore skin and give your face a glow. The new Soothe skincare line by Nuveev is regulated and legal. So much so that it can only be purchased at www.ocs.ca. Samantha also shares some of her makeup and beauty secrets. For more information check out www.nuveev.com

CEO and founder of the DNA Company, Kashif Khan shares his thoughts of the future of medicine and why he believes learning how to navigate your genetic road map can lead to your ultimate health. What if you can find out what your risk factors are for disease and dementia, or why you wake up feeling tired each morning, or figure out how to shed those last five pounds. Can you imagine unlocking your health secrets so you can control your future? Dana can and so she did. Kashif breaks down Dana's genetic test and shares what she can expect in the future if she is proactive today.

“Women in menopause are like butterflies. First, they undergo metamorphosis, then they take flight to become their true, authentic and free selves.” Andrea Donsky, Founder of Morphus and Menopause educator speaks with Dana about the life changing and inevitable journey for women. The two of them normalize the conversation around a still very-much taboo topic and its many symptoms. As a Registered Holistic Nutritionist (RHN), Andrea gets down to the basics shares some practical solutions on how to manage your peri and menopausal symptoms through nutrition and lifestyle changes.

'Clutter around your home is just unmade decisions'. Megan Golightly from Simplified speaks to Dana about the psychology of organizing. She tells Dana it is unhealthy to have nagging critical thoughts about the states of our home but getting started can be paralyzing. This is an incredible and very useful conversation about how to take those first steps and what to do with the 'stuff' that is holding you back from creating the spaces you deserve. It is not about perfection, it is about progress. To learn more about out Megan's tips and how-to guides check out www.go-simpified.com or @gosimplified on instagram.

Amanda Nighbert, registered dietitian specializing in weight loss nutrition says it like it is. If want to loose weight, take charge of your nutrition, and be in control of your health then stop eating like an 'asshole'. It is that simple, if you have the tools and knowledge to stop beating yourself up every time you have a bay day. Amanda's passion is to empower others to break the all or nothing mindset and find sustainable change for long term weight loss success. As Amanda tells Dana you probably will eat that piece of cake but, you have to drop the might-as-well mindset and quickly refocus to get yourself back to your wellness journey. This is one of the best and most informative conversations about nutrition Dana has had yet. A must listen!

Emily Lyons, one of North America's leading female entrepreneurs gets candid with Dana about her path to success. While Emily is known for leading with kindness, she shares so much more with Dana. Emily is raw and authentic about her life story, and she reveals why there is no path to success without sacrifice. Emily also speaks about overcoming addiction, mental health issues, and the loss of loved ones. Listen to this powerful conversation of how one multi-business leader uses her life experiences to continue to elevate to incredible accomplishment and happiness.

Jess Moran is a mother who goes to sleep each night not knowing if her daughter will be alive the next day. If this sounds harsh, it is actually far worse. Jess is speaking out loud about her daughter's multiple suicide attempts and her mental health with the hope of destigmatizing mental illness. Jess shares what life has been like for her family during the pandemic, in particular the effects of not having access to care for their daughter, and how isolation may have contributed to her daughter's decline. Listen to this mom's incredible amount of courage.

Turning 50 is a privilege, and as many people would attest it is not a birthday that marks the beginning of the end. So why the stigma? Irma Heuven asked herself the exact same thing and so began her mission to enlighten people from across the globe. With her with daily positive pro-aging messages and images, Irma's @chapter_fifty instagram page celebrates the aging process and provides daily reminders of that we are only as old as we feel. Irmas shares with her Dana her journey turning fifty and why she believes it is so important to change the aging narrative.

"I don't want to live the next half of my life feeing terrible". An extremely powerful statement that resonates with so many of us. Former supermodel & actress Monika Schnarre shares with Dana her fascinating journey into optimizing her health. Monika had health issues that were not uncommon but, nonetheless worrisome as she believed she was eating and exercising properly. Her healing began only after she had her DNA tested and found out she was living all wrong for her body. Monika also shares with Dana what life was like as the youngest teenager ever to be on the cover of Vogue and what experiences as a supermodel she carried to adulthood. Find out how learning about her DNA has helped Monika life a much healthier and happier life.

If you have ever been in a painful, dark place then you know how hard it is to arrive on the other side of it. Helen Tansey and Dianne Wiseman have both been there and they want to inspire others to get to a personal place where they are good with themselves. Once in darkness, these women found their light and are now co-hosts of the podcast The Feminine Warrior. Helen and Dianne speak to Dana about finding their own female warrior side and process it takes to get there. Once you have stepped into your own warriorship you will know exactly what we are talking about.

Shirley Weir introduces herself as a Menopause Chick. Her perimenopause journey with sore boobs, sleep deprivation, depression and brain fog which led Shirley to her doctor's office, the book store and “Dr. Google,” but she was left feeling confused, overwhelmed and alone. Can you relate? If not now, chances are you will some day. On a quest to navigate her own mid life health while helping thousands of women she launched Menopause Chicks, an online platform empowering women to talk openly about perimenopause and menopause, and to connect to women's health professionals. You will learn so much from this conversation.

Having information about your health is empowering. What you do with that knowledge is highly personal but, for Lauren Levy, her health journey has become her advocacy. The mom of 4 shares her highly personal story and the decision to have a prophylactic double mastectomy and oophorectomy. Lauren is the co-owner of ANI + WREN a multi-brand digital destination for the modern woman and speaks candidly with Dana about why every woman needs to know what is happening with their own body. At 25 Lauren found out she has the BRCA1 gene.

Cheryl Hickey , Host of ET Canada is the real deal. She opens up to Dana about her wellness journey and what brought her to that stage in her life, and what she does to stay healthy. Cheryl gets candid about her work, including her humble beginnings, her anxiety, her family's health, how she survived hosting a national tv show from her bedroom, and her meditation. This is a conversation is a must listen.

You can change how you feel by loving the space you live in. Your dream home. We have all spent an incredible amount of time at home and most probably would love to change a few things here and there. Ali Budd from Ali Budd Interiors explains how you can. Ali and her team bring an authenticity to each and every one of their projects by sharing all of their day to day experiences. Followers adore Ali not just for her wisdom in design but for her connection to real life, and how we can draw from this to reimagine our own homes.

Anything is possible when you believe. Change can be a new opportunity and at any age and age stage in your life and there is no one who can attest to that more than Marci Ien. Former journalist and tv show host and now MP elect Marci gets candid with Dana about finding her courage to make a huge life and career change. Marci share her life lessons and the reasons for her choices.

If you have ever worked in a toxic work environment than you know how destructive and debilitating it can be to your physical and emotional health. While it has never seemed so important to re-enter the workplace, there are so many people who are terrified to go back to work as they once knew it. Melanie Pump has worked her way up from an entry level position to the C-suite. She has experienced both positive and toxic work environments. Melanie shares her work journey with Dana, including working in a terrible setting when she lost her life parter. Melanie hopes to inspire people to overcome work bullies and bad bosses. We all have had one or two.

Imagine you have every reason to stop but, you don't. Imagine you are judged the moment someone looks at you but, that won't deter you from living your best life. Tracy Schmitt is unstoppable. Born a quadruple amputee, she is a Paralmypic skier, climbed the Himalayas, has her MBA, and is a motivational speaker. Tracy shares with Dana her extraordinary life story and why her mission and purpose is to dispel any stereotypes regarding people living with a disability. What you see is not always what you get.

Imagine having every reason to hate men because you have had one painful experience after another. Yet what if you chose instead to own your experiences and your choices. Karen Carrington has dedicated her life to raising up men. Instead of hate she loves. Instead of anger she celebrates men. This is an extraordonary conversation about forgiveness, awareness, empathy, accountability, and compassion.

Imagine in one quick snap your entire life changes. Julian Uccello was a rising soccer star playing with FC Crotone Italy, and competing against some of the best soccer players in the world. He shares with Dana how his dreams came to a grinding halt, in a snap. He was 25 years old and diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. Listen to Julian's journey of triumph and tragedy and how this soaring athlete now lives everyday with MS.

Imagine a world where kindness wins and discrimination and racialization does not exist. Journalist and TV news anchor Farah Nasser is a beacon of light. As a visible minority herself she speaks to Dana about her journey championing equality. Farah speaks candidly about memories of some of her first experiences with racism. She perseveres with her fight for equality and talks about the changes we need to see happen right now.