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Support Birthright Israel: https://birthrightisrael.foundation/callmebackTo register for Wednesday's (09/10) Streicker Center event featuring Sarah Hurwitz, Dara Horn, Abigail Pogrebin, and Dan Senor: streicker.nyc/events/hurwitzTo order As a Jew: Reclaiming Our Story From Those Who Blame, Shame, and Try to Erase Us: sarahhurwitz.net/books/as-a-jewSubscribe to Inside Call me Back: inside.arkmedia.orgGift a subscription of Inside Call me Back: inside.arkmedia.org/giftsSubscribe to Amit Segal's newsletter ‘It's Noon in Israel': arkmedia.org/amitsegal/Watch Call me Back on YouTube: youtube.com/@CallMeBackPodcastCheck out Ark Media's other podcasts: For Heaven's Sake: lnk.to/rfGlrA‘What's Your Number?': lnk.to/rbGlvMFor sponsorship inquiries, please contact: callmeback@arkmedia.orgTo contact us, sign up for updates, and access transcripts, visit: arkmedia.org/Ark Media on Instagram: instagram.com/arkmediaorgDan on X: x.com/dansenorDan on Instagram: instagram.com/dansenorTo order Dan Senor & Saul Singer's book, The Genius of Israel: tinyurl.com/bdeyjsdnToday's Episode: On today's episode we are joined by Sarah Hurwitz, author of the new book As a Jew: Reclaiming Our Story From Those Who Blame, Shame, and Try to Erase Us. It is an urgent exploration of how antisemitism has shaped Jewish identity and how Jews can reclaim their tradition. Sarah was a senior speechwriter in the White House under President Obama, including as Chief Speechwriter for Michelle Obama from 2010-2017.(00:00) Introduction(05:30) How American Jews identify with Judaism(08:35) Sarah's Jewish journey(11:36) Why “cultural Judaism” isn't enough(13:00) What prompted Sarah to write As a Jew(18:00) The phenomenon of antizionist Jews(25:12) Blaming Jews for antisemitism (29:00) Normalizing Israeli history(33:08) How Jewish kids will experience Israel(38:47) Antisemitism on the Right(40:35) Using Jewish wisdom in modern American life CREDITS:ILAN BENATAR - Producer & EditorADAAM JAMES LEVIN-AREDDY - Executive ProducerMARTIN HUERGO - Sound EditorMARIANGELES BURGOS - Additional EditingMAYA RACKOFF - Operations DirectorGABE SILVERSTEIN - ResearchYUVAL SEMO - Music Composer
Today on the show, Fareed sits down with Atlantic staff writer Anne Applebaum to discuss this week's meeting between China's Xi Jinping, Russia's Vladimir Putin and North Korea's Kim Jong Un and the growing alliances between autocracies.Then, former US negotiator Robert Malley, co-author of the new book “Tomorrow Is Yesterday: Life, Death, and the Pursuit of Peace in Israel/Palestine,” and Dan Senor, author and analyst, join the show to talk about whether any hope remains for a two-state solution, and what might come from Israel's planned invasion of Gaza City.Later, CNN Senior Medical Correspondent Dr. Sanjay Gupta joins Fareed to discuss his new book on chronic pain, “It Doesn't Have to Hurt,” and his thoughts on the Trump's administration's upheaval of the American medical establishment.Finally, Fareed speaks with Derek Thompson, co-author of the bestseller “Abundance”, about what he calls the “existential threat” that AI poses to education.GUESTS: Anne Applebaum (@anneapplebaum), Robert Malley (@Rob_Malley), Dan Senor (@dansenor), Sanjay Gupta (@drsanjaygupta), Derek Thompson (@DKThomp) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Subscribe to Inside Call me Back: inside.arkmedia.orgGift a subscription of Inside Call me Back: inside.arkmedia.org/giftsSubscribe to Amit Segal's newsletter ‘It's Noon in Israel': arkmedia.org/amitsegal/Watch Call me Back on YouTube: youtube.com/@CallMeBackPodcastCheck out Ark Media's other podcasts: For Heaven's Sake: lnk.to/rfGlrA‘What's Your Number?': lnk.to/rbGlvMFor sponsorship inquiries, please contact: callmeback@arkmedia.orgTo contact us, sign up for updates, and access transcripts, visit: arkmedia.org/Ark Media on Instagram: instagram.com/arkmediaorgDan on X: x.com/dansenorDan on Instagram: instagram.com/dansenorTo order Dan Senor & Saul Singer's book, The Genius of Israel: tinyurl.com/bdeyjsdnToday's Episode: October 7, 2023 was Israel's biggest security failure since the country's founding. Over the past twenty-three months, we've discovered a lot about how Hamas terrorists managed to penetrate deep into Israel's borders. But there's still much the public does not yet know or understand. On today's episode we are joined by Israeli journalist Yaakov Katz to discuss how a nation known worldwide for its security capabilities failed so monumentally on October 7. Yaakov is the former editor-in-chief of the Jerusalem Post and founder of the Middle East American Dialogue, a conference that brings together American and Middle Eastern leaders. While Israel Slept by Yaakov Katz & Amir Bohbot: https://a.co/d/6xUDPa6 TORN: The Israel-Palestine Poster War on NYC Streets: https://www.torn-film.com/ CREDITS:ILAN BENATAR - Producer & EditorADAAM JAMES LEVIN-AREDDY - Executive ProducerMARTIN HUERGO - Sound EditorMARIANGELES BURGOS - Additional EditingMAYA RACKOFF - Operations DirectorGABE SILVERSTEIN - ResearchYUVAL SEMO - Music Composer
Is it a religion, a people, a culture, a nation - or something that refuses tidy boxes? In the first episode of our In The Beginning mini-series where we'll be covering foundational Jewish topics, Mijal and Noam trace how Jews have defined themselves or been defined across centuries and why it matters now more than ever; impacting belief, peoplehood, culture, land, shared destiny and so much more. We're proud to be collaborating with Sefaria and The Simchat Torah Challenge, on this episode along with all the other episodes of our “In the Beginning” mini-series. Learn more about these two incredible organizations here: https://simchattorahchallenge.org/ https://www.sefaria.org/texts Here are links to additional resources mentioned in the episode. Leora Batnitzky's How Judaism Became a Religion: An Introduction to Modern Jewish Thought The Tanya BOOK TICKETS for Unpacking Israeli History LIVE in NYC - Sep 7 at 92nd St Y with special guest Dan Senor: https://unpacked.bio/uihny25 Use Promo code UIH20 to get 20% off your tickets Get in touch at our new email address: WonderingJews@unpacked.media and call us, 1-833-WON-Jews. Follow @unpackedmedia on Instagram and check out Unpacked on youtube. ------------ This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media. For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out: Jewish History Nerds Unpacking Israeli History Soulful Jewish Living Stars of David with Elon Gold
BOOK TICKETS for Unpacking Israeli History LIVE in NYC - Sep 7 at 92nd St Y with special guest Dan Senor: https://unpacked.bio/uihny25 Use Promo code UIH20 to get 20% off your tickets Who are the Neturei Karta? A recent Humans of New York article brought the fringe sect of ultra-Orthodox, anti-Zionist Jews into the spotlight. Now Noam Weissman explains the history of this tiny movement, which rejects the State of Israel and ally with its worst enemies. Noam explores why he and so many Jews are enraged by the Neturei Karta, who engage in anti-Jewish hatemongering. The Neturei Karta continue to grab outsized attention. But their story is one that touches on questions of Jewish unity, identity, and betrayal. Here are the sources used in this episode. Check us out on Youtube. This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media. ------------------- For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out: Jewish History Nerds Soulful Jewish Living Stars of David with Elon Gold Wondering Jews
What does “Don't commit adultery” really mean—and how can it shape our daily mindfulness? This week, Rabbi Josh Feigelson explores the Seventh Commandment as more than just a rule about fidelity. From Don Draper's complicated story in Mad Men to the Torah's vision of holiness, Josh explains how saying “no” to certain impulses allows us to say a deeper “yes” to love, truth, and sacred commitments. Be in touch at josh@unpacked.media. This episode is sponsored by Jonathan and Kori Kalafer and the Somerset Patriots: The Bridgewater, NJ-based AA Affiliate of the New York Yankees, AND BY Rebecca Halpern, in loving memory of her father, Richard, and her mother, Maddy, at the conclusion of the first thirty days of mourning since she passed away. May their memories be a blessing. BOOK TICKETS for Unpacking Israeli History LIVE in NYC - Sep 7 at 92nd St Y with special guest Dan Senor: https://unpacked.bio/uihny25 Use Promo code UIH20 to get 20% off your tickets --------------- This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media. For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out: Jewish History Nerds Stars of David with Elon Gold Unpacking Israeli History Wondering Jews
Mijal and Noam sit down with award-winning author Dara Horn (People Love Dead Jews) to tackle one of the most urgent questions today: What's wrong with Holocaust education—and how do we fix it? Together, they explore why most American students meet Jews only as Holocaust victims, how teaching the Shoah without Jewish civilization erases the very culture the Nazis tried to destroy, and why that erasure actually fuels antisemitism rather than combating it. From Holocaust denial to October 7th, from the “big lie” at the heart of Jew-hatred to the paradox of Jewish sovereignty, Dara doesn't hold back. This episode, originally released on Yom HaShoah (Holocaust Remembrance Day) isn't just a history lesson—it's a call to rethink how we talk about Jews, Judaism, and antisemitism. Click here to read more about Dara Horn and her work, including 7 books. BOOK TICKETS for Unpacking Israeli History LIVE in NYC - Sep 7 at 92nd St Y with special guest Dan Senor: https://unpacked.bio/uihny25 Use Promo code UIH20 to get 20% off your tickets Get in touch at our new email address: WonderingJews@unpacked.media and call us, 1-833-WON-Jews. Follow @unpackedmedia on Instagram and check out Unpacked on youtube. ------------ This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media. For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out: Jewish History Nerds Unpacking Israeli History Soulful Jewish Living Stars of David with Elon Gold
BOOK TICKETS for Unpacking Israeli History LIVE in NYC - Sep 7 at 92nd St Y with special guest Dan Senor: https://unpacked.bio/uihny25 Use Promo code UIH20 to get 20% off your tickets What wins hearts and minds — facts, or feelings? This week, Noam Weissman sits down with Toba Hellerstein, author of American Perceptions of Jews and Israel and a leading expert on antisemitism, diplomacy, and narrative strategy. Together, they unpack why Israel advocacy so often falls flat. From the meaning of Zionism to the archetypes of “king,” “victim,” and “antihero,” this conversation reframes how Jews (and their allies) should talk about Israel in a world flooded with images, emotions, and outrage. Here is a link to Toba Hellertsein's article in the Sapir Journal that inspired this episode: Actually, Feelings Don't Care About Your Facts. Go to Attunenow.org to download the full study on Perceptions of Jews and Israel. Here is a link to Unpacking Israeli History: Sabra and Shatila: What happened and why it matters. Please get in touch at noam@unpacked.media. Your questions might be included in part 2 of this episode. Check us out on Youtube. This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media. ------------------- For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out: Jewish History Nerds Soulful Jewish Living Stars of David with Elon Gold Wondering Jews
Hugh interviews Alex Marlow, editor-in-chief of Breitbart News, host of "The Alex Marlow Show" on Salem Podcast Network, about his new book, "Breaking the Law: Exposing the Weaponization of America's Legal System Against Donald Trump" and Dan Senor, host of Call Me Back, about the IDF operating in Gaza City and hitting Nasser hospital.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Subscribe to Inside Call me Back: inside.arkmedia.orgGift a subscription of Inside Call me Back: inside.arkmedia.org/giftsSubscribe to Amit Segal's newsletter ‘It's Noon in Israel': arkmedia.org/amitsegal/Europe's far-right rise: axios.com/2025/08/22/europe-far-right-afd-germany-france-ukWatch Call me Back on YouTube: youtube.com/@CallMeBackPodcastCheck out Ark Media's other podcasts: For Heaven's Sake: lnk.to/rfGlrA‘What's Your Number?': lnk.to/rbGlvMFor sponsorship inquiries, please contact: callmeback@arkmedia.orgTo contact us, sign up for updates, and access transcripts, visit: arkmedia.org/Ark Media on Instagram: instagram.com/arkmediaorgDan on X: x.com/dansenorDan on Instagram: instagram.com/dansenorTo order Dan Senor & Saul Singer's book, The Genius of Israel: tinyurl.com/bdeyjsdnToday's Episode: On Friday, the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) — an internationally recognized set of standards established by a group of NGOs for determining food insecurity — was applied to Gaza to declare for the first time that famine has struck North Gaza. It was a charge Israel quickly denied. This comes after many countries – including Britain, France, Canada, and Australia – have announced plans to recognize a Palestinian state.On today's episode, we ask how Israelis are reacting to the world's ire. Do they recognize the severity of the situation, or are they insulated from global opinion? Is Israel's plummeting global standing cause for serious concern? Ark Media contributor Amit Segal joined us to discuss.00:00 Introduction03:57 Israel's plummeting global image05:44 Israel's lack of PR strategy08:20 Why is anti-Israel sentiment worse now than ever?11:20 How Israeli leaders make the problem worse14:18 How influential is the far-right in Netanyahu's coalition?16:21 How Israel's internal debate reaches an international audience18:00 How Netanyahu approaches PR23:00 Israel is the mistress of Europe25:45 Europe's funding of Israeli research28:55 Why aren't Israelis talking about their global image?34:04 How do Israelis react to claims of famine in Gaza?35:35 Israel does not invest enough in PR37:50 The practical affects of Israel's standingCREDITS:ILAN BENATAR - Producer & EditorADAAM JAMES LEVIN-AREDDY - Executive ProducerMARTIN HUERGO - Sound EditorMARIANGELES BURGOS - Additional EditingMAYA RACKOFF - Operations DirectorGABE SILVERSTEIN - ResearchYUVAL SEMO - Music Composer
Rabbi Josh Feigelson explores the Sixth Commandment—“Lo Tirtzach: Don't Murder”—and why it's far more than a prohibition against taking a life. Rabbi Feigelson reveals how the commandment extends beyond literal murder to include gossip, false testimony, harmful advice, or withholding life-saving information. Through mindfulness practice, he shows how recognizing the unique, infinite, and equal value of every person can transform the way we think, speak, and act every day. Be in touch at josh@unpacked.media. This episode is sponsored by Jonathan and Kori Kalafer and the Somerset Patriots: The Bridgewater, NJ-based AA Affiliate of the New York Yankees, AND BY Rebecca Halpern, in loving memory of her father, Richard, and her mother, Maddy, at the conclusion of the first thirty days of mourning since she passed away. May their memories be a blessing. BOOK TICKETS for Unpacking Israeli History LIVE in NYC - Sep 7 at 92nd St Y with special guest Dan Senor: https://unpacked.bio/uihny25 Use Promo code UIH20 to get 20% off your tickets --------------- This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media. For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out: Jewish History Nerds Stars of David with Elon Gold Unpacking Israeli History Wondering Jews
Subscribe to Inside Call me Back: inside.arkmedia.orgGift a subscription of Inside Call me Back: inside.arkmedia.org/giftsArk Media is looking to add a Production Manager to the team: https://tinyurl.com/ark-prod-mgrSubscribe to Amit Segal's newsletter ‘It's Noon in Israel': arkmedia.org/amitsegal/Watch Call me Back on YouTube: youtube.com/@CallMeBackPodcastCheck out Ark Media's other podcasts: For Heaven's Sake: lnk.to/rfGlrA‘What's Your Number?': lnk.to/rbGlvMFor sponsorship inquiries, please contact: callmeback@arkmedia.orgTo contact us, sign up for updates, and access transcripts, visit: arkmedia.org/Ark Media on Instagram: instagram.com/arkmediaorgDan on X: x.com/dansenorDan on Instagram: instagram.com/dansenorTo order Dan Senor & Saul Singer's book, The Genius of Israel: tinyurl.com/bdeyjsdnToday's Episode: On Sunday, Hamas announced that it agreed to a hostage-ceasefire proposal, which Israel officials are now reviewing. This comes after Sunday's massive protests against the government's plans to expand the war and conquer Gaza City. In preparation for the Gaza City operation, the IDF has called up another 60,000 reservists. On Tuesday, the Hostage and Missing Families Forum announced they are postponing another big protest originally scheduled for next Sunday in order not to disrupt the ongoing negotiations. On today's episode, we are joined by Miri Eisin to discuss Israel's strategic position as it weighs whether to go for a deal or continue the war. Miri is a retired Col. in the IDF, who spent her career focused on military intelligence, and who served alongside current IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir. She currently serves as a fellow at Reichmann University's International Institute for Counter-terrorism and is the Chair of the Taub Center for Social Policy Studies in Israel. CREDITS:ILAN BENATAR - Producer & EditorADAAM JAMES LEVIN-AREDDY - Executive ProducerMARTIN HUERGO - Sound EditorMARIANGELES BURGOS - Additional EditingMAYA RACKOFF - Operations DirectorGABE SILVERSTEIN - ResearchYUVAL SEMO - Music Composer
In this re-release of one of our most popular episodes, Noam Weissman and Mijal Bitton speak with journalist Haviv Rettig Gur about the history, ideology, and persistence of antisemitism. They trace its roots from early Christian and Islamic theology through Marxist and nationalist movements, examine how it has evolved in the Arab world and on American campuses, and discuss why the current wave feels unprecedented to many American Jews. (Note: this episode was recorded before Mamdani's victory in the Democratic primary of the NYC mayoral election.) Here is Mijal's article in the Free Press: Things Worth Remembering: The Freedom to Be Different. BOOK TICKETS for Unpacking Israeli History LIVE in NYC - Sep 7 at 92nd St Y with special guest Dan Senor: https://unpacked.bio/uihny25 Use Promo code UIH20 to get 20% off your tickets Please follow Wondering Jews on Instagram! instagram.com/wonderingjews. Check us out on Youtube. Get in touch at our new email address: WonderingJews@unpacked.media and call us, 1-833-WON-Jews. ------------ This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media. For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out: Jewish History Nerds Unpacking Israeli History Soulful Jewish Living Stars of David with Elon Gold
BOOK TICKETS for Unpacking Israeli History LIVE in NYC - Sep 7 at 92nd St Y with special guest Dan Senor: https://unpacked.bio/uihny25 Use Promo code UIH20 to get 20% off your tickets In Part 2 of a series on settler violence, Noam Weissman talks with Yirmiyahu Danzig (@that_semite) about the Hilltop Youth, Palestinian life in Area C, and the narratives behind the headlines. From Gaza disengagement trauma to price tag attacks, this episode explores why this “fringe of a fringe” matters for Israel's future. You can watch Yirmiyahu's videos on Unpacked's Youtube channel. Please get in touch at noam@unpacked.media. This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media. ------------------- For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out: Jewish History Nerds Soulful Jewish Living Stars of David with Elon Gold Wondering Jews
Subscribe to Inside Call me Back: inside.arkmedia.orgGift a subscription of Inside Call me Back: inside.arkmedia.org/giftsArk Media is looking to add a Production Manager to the team: https://tinyurl.com/ark-prod-mgrSubscribe to Amit Segal's newsletter ‘It's Noon in Israel': arkmedia.org/amitsegal/Watch Call me Back on YouTube: youtube.com/@CallMeBackPodcastCheck out Ark Media's other podcasts: For Heaven's Sake: lnk.to/rfGlrA‘What's Your Number?': lnk.to/rbGlvMFor sponsorship inquiries, please contact: callmeback@arkmedia.orgTo contact us, sign up for updates, and access transcripts, visit: arkmedia.org/Ark Media on Instagram: instagram.com/arkmediaorgDan on X: x.com/dansenorDan on Instagram: instagram.com/dansenorTo order Dan Senor & Saul Singer's book, The Genius of Israel: tinyurl.com/bdeyjsdnToday's Episode: On Sunday, hundreds of thousands of Israelis joined in mass protests and strikes to pressure the Netanyahu government to end the Gaza war.Meanwhile, the IDF is preparing to execute the government's plan to conquer Gaza City, which would entail the evacuation of the roughly one million Palestinians residing there. This offensive is in the works while there is renewed interest by Hamas in some kind of negotiation (which is likely a result of IDF plans for a new offensive). On today's episode, Dan is joined by Ark Media contributor Nadav Eyal to discuss (and debate) the cost and benefits of continuing the war in Gaza.CREDITS:ILAN BENATAR - Producer & EditorADAAM JAMES LEVIN-AREDDY - Executive ProducerMARTIN HUERGO - Sound EditorMARIANGELES BURGOS - Additional EditingMAYA RACKOFF - Operations DirectorGABE SILVERSTEIN - ResearchYUVAL SEMO - Music Composer
What does it mean to honor parents in the 21st century — especially if the relationship is complex? This week, Rabbi Josh Feigelson dives into the Fifth Commandment and the idea that honoring parents is a core Jewish value with deep spiritual meaning. Listen for a simple, mindful practice you can do at home to connect with your family's story and pass on its values for generations to come. BOOK TICKETS for Unpacking Israeli History LIVE in NYC - Sep 7 at 92nd St Y with special guest Dan Senor: https://unpacked.bio/uihny25 Use Promo code UIH20 to get 20% off your tickets --------------- This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media. For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out: Jewish History Nerds Stars of David with Elon Gold Unpacking Israeli History Wondering Jews
Subscribe to Inside Call me Back: inside.arkmedia.orgGift a subscription of Inside Call me Back: inside.arkmedia.org/giftsArk Media is looking to add a Production Manager to the team: https://tinyurl.com/ark-prod-mgrSubscribe to Amit Segal's newsletter 'It's Noon in Israel': arkmedia.org/amitsegal/Watch Call me Back on YouTube: youtube.com/@CallMeBackPodcastCheck out Ark Media's other podcasts: For Heaven's Sake: lnk.to/rfGlrA‘What's Your Number?': lnk.to/rbGlvMFor sponsorship inquiries, please contact: callmeback@arkmedia.orgTo contact us, sign up for updates, and access transcripts, visit: arkmedia.org/Ark Media on Instagram: instagram.com/arkmediaorgDan on X: x.com/dansenorDan on Instagram: instagram.com/dansenorTo order Dan Senor & Saul Singer's book, The Genius of Israel: tinyurl.com/bdeyjsdnToday's Episode: On Friday, August 15th, Israel marks the 20th anniversary of its 2005 disengagement from Gaza, a watershed moment in Israeli history. It's the date when, 20 years ago, the IDF began executing the Knesset's decision to unilaterally withdraw from all Jewish settlements in the Gaza strip, uprooting the 8,000 Israelis living there.The plan was spearheaded by Prime Minister Ariel Sharon, who was head of the right-wing Likud party and had been a lifelong supporter of expanding settlements. Sharon ultimately got his government, including the future Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, to support the withdrawal.On today's episode, we are joined by Ark Media contributor Amit Segal and Asi Shariv, who served as senior advisor to Prime Minister Sharon during those dramatic days. With the benefit of hindsight, we discuss the long term impact of the Gaza withdrawal and whether or not it was a mistake.CREDITS:ILAN BENATAR - Producer & EditorADAAM JAMES LEVIN-AREDDY - Executive ProducerMARTIN HUERGO - Sound EditorMARIANGELES BURGOS - Additional EditingMAYA RACKOFF - Operations DirectorGABE SILVERSTEIN - ResearchYUVAL SEMO - Music Composer
Subscribe to Inside Call me Back: inside.arkmedia.orgGift a subscription of Inside Call me Back: inside.arkmedia.org/giftsArk Media is looking to add a Production Manager to the team: https://tinyurl.com/ark-prod-mgrSubscribe to Amit Segal's newsletter 'It's Noon in Israel': arkmedia.org/amitsegal/Watch Call me Back on YouTube: youtube.com/@CallMeBackPodcastCheck out Ark Media's other podcasts: For Heaven's Sake: lnk.to/rfGlrA‘What's Your Number?': lnk.to/rbGlvMFor sponsorship inquiries, please contact: callmeback@arkmedia.orgTo contact us, sign up for updates, and access transcripts, visit: arkmedia.org/Ark Media on Instagram: instagram.com/arkmediaorgDan on X: x.com/dansenorDan on Instagram: instagram.com/dansenorTo order Dan Senor & Saul Singer's book, The Genius of Israel: tinyurl.com/bdeyjsdnToday's Episode: On Friday, August 15th, Israel marks the 20th anniversary of its 2005 disengagement from Gaza, a watershed moment in Israeli history. It's the date when, 20 years ago, the IDF began executing the Knesset's decision to unilaterally withdraw from all Jewish settlements in the Gaza strip, uprooting the 8,000 Israelis living there.The plan was spearheaded by Prime Minister Ariel Sharon, who was head of the right-wing Likud party and had been a lifelong supporter of expanding settlements. Sharon ultimately got his government, including the future Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, to support the withdrawal.On today's episode, we discuss the Gaza withdrawal and its implications with Ark Media contributor Amit Segal and Asi Shariv, who served as senior advisor to Prime Minister Sharon during those dramatic days. CREDITS:ILAN BENATAR - Producer & EditorADAAM JAMES LEVIN-AREDDY - Executive ProducerMARTIN HUERGO - Sound EditorMARIANGELES BURGOS - Additional EditingMAYA RACKOFF - Operations DirectorGABE SILVERSTEIN - ResearchYUVAL SEMO - Music Composer
In a year of division, can Jewish unity still hold? In this special re-release of Wondering Jews, Mijal Bitton sits down with Rabbi David Wolpe for a deep, candid conversation about Jewish solidarity, peoplehood, and the meaning of freedom. They explore why the Seder remains Judaism's most beloved ritual, how to handle political disagreements at the table, and why Jewish identity is rooted in community as much as in faith. BOOK TICKETS for Unpacking Israeli History LIVE in NYC - Sep 7 at 92nd St Y with special guest Dan Senor: https://unpacked.bio/uihny25 Use Promo code UIH20 to get 20% off your tickets Please follow Wondering Jews on Instagram! instagram.com/wonderingjews. Check us out on Youtube. Get in touch at our new email address: WonderingJews@unpacked.media and call us, 1-833-WON-Jews. ------------ This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media. For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out: Jewish History Nerds Unpacking Israeli History Soulful Jewish Living Stars of David with Elon Gold
BOOK TICKETS for Unpacking Israeli History LIVE in NYC - Sep 7 at 92nd St Y with special guest Dan Senor: https://unpacked.bio/uihny25 Use Promo code UIH20 to get 20% off your tickets Noam Weissman sits down with journalist Haviv Rettig Gur to tackle one of the most heated topics in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict: settler violence. Who are the “Hilltop Youth,” the fringe group accused of a kind of terrorism targeting Palestinian civilians? And is settler violence a widespread threat or a statistically small — but politically explosive — phenomenon? Noam and Haviv break down the history, the impact, the numbers and the narratives, offering context you won't find in the headlines. Please get in touch at noam@unpacked.media. Check us out on Youtube. This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media. ------------------- For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out: Jewish History Nerds Soulful Jewish Living Stars of David with Elon Gold Wondering Jews
Ark Media is looking to add a Production Manager to the team: https://tinyurl.com/ark-prod-mgrSubscribe to INSIDE Call me Back: inside.arkmedia.orgGift a subscription of INSIDE Call me Back: inside.arkmedia.org/giftsWatch Call me Back on YouTube: youtube.com/@CallMeBackPodcastCheck out Ark Media's other podcasts: For Heaven's Sake: lnk.to/rfGlrA‘What's Your Number?': lnk.to/rbGlvMFor sponsorship inquiries, please contact: callmeback@arkmedia.orgTo contact us, sign up for updates, and access transcripts, visit: arkmedia.org/Ark Media on Instagram: instagram.com/arkmediaorgDan on X: x.com/dansenorDan on Instagram: instagram.com/dansenorTo order Dan Senor & Saul Singer's book, The Genius of Israel: tinyurl.com/bdeyjsdnToday's Episode: Late last week, the Israeli security cabinet approved a proposal by Prime Minister Netanyahu to conquer Gaza City, where roughly half the Gazan population resides, and which has been largely untouched by the IDF thus far.This decision has prompted widespread international backlash, which was already mounting from concerns over a possible food crisis in Gaza. It also comes as more countries move to recognize a Palestinian state, forcing us to grapple with the high price Israel is paying on the global stage for the ongoing Gaza war. With this in mind, on today's episode, Dan speaks with Dr. Micah Goodman about whether there's a difference between winning the war in Gaza and winning the wider, regional war. Is it possible that Israel will need to modify its definition of victory in Gaza in order to emerge victorious in the larger re-shaping of the geopolitics of the Middle East?Micah Goodman is a research fellow at the Shalom Hartman Institute and co-host of the popular Israeli podcast Mifleget Hamachshavot produced by Beit Avi Chai.CREDITS:ILAN BENATAR - Producer & EditorADAAM JAMES LEVIN-AREDDY - Executive ProducerMARTIN HUERGO - Sound EditorMARIANGELES BURGOS - Additional EditingMAYA RACKOFF - Operations DirectorGABE SILVERSTEIN - ResearchYUVAL SEMO - Music Composer
Is Shabbat just about Friday night dinner—or is it the most powerful spiritual technology in Jewish life? Rabbi Josh Feigelson dives into the Fourth Commandment—Remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy—and reveals how Shabbat isn't just a ritual, but a radical mindset shift that can bring you peace, presence, and purpose every day of the week. Featuring Mel Brooks, Moses, a simple but transformative meditation, and a big question: What are you holding onto too tightly? Be in touch at josh@unpacked.media. This episode is sponsored by Jonathan and Kori Kalafer and the Somerset Patriots: The Bridgewater, NJ-based AA Affiliate of the New York Yankees, AND BY Rebecca Halpern, in loving memory of her father, Richard, and her mother, Maddy, at the conclusion of the first thirty days of mourning since she passed away. May their memories be a blessing. BOOK TICKETS for Unpacking Israeli History LIVE in NYC - Sep 7 at 92nd St Y with special guest Dan Senor: https://unpacked.bio/uihny25 Use Promo code UIH20 to get 20% off your tickets --------------- This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media. For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out: Jewish History Nerds Stars of David with Elon Gold Unpacking Israeli History Wondering Jews
If you're already subscribed to INSIDE Call me Back, listen to the extended version of this episode – on the INSIDE Call me Back feed.To subscribe to Inside Call me Back please go to: inside.arkmedia.orgSign up to Amit Segal's newsletter: https://arkmedia.org/amitsegal/Gift a subscription of Inside Call me Back: inside.arkmedia.org/giftsWatch Call me Back on YouTube: youtube.com/@CallMeBackPodcastCheck out Ark Media's other podcasts: For Heaven's Sake: lnk.to/rfGlrA‘What's Your Number?': lnk.to/rbGlvMFor sponsorship inquiries, please contact: callmeback@arkmedia.orgTo contact us, sign up for updates, and access transcripts, visit: arkmedia.org/Ark Media on Instagram: instagram.com/arkmediaorgDan on X: x.com/dansenorDan on Instagram: instagram.com/dansenorTo order Dan Senor & Saul Singer's book, The Genius of Israel: tinyurl.com/bdeyjsdnToday's Episode: Prime Minister Netanyahu is expected to present the cabinet with a plan for the full military occupation of Gaza today. According to reports, the plan's first phase entails the evacuation of Gaza City and an expansion of humanitarian aid, in coordination with the United States. The second phase would see an IDF takeover of Gaza City with an even bigger expansion of aid, backed by $1 billion from the U.S. and other countries. This comes despite pushback from IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir and other security officials, who — according to reports — have serious concerns about the risks of this military expansion. To discuss this breaking news, Dan is joined by Ark Media contributors Amit Segal and Nadav Eyal. You can hear more of Dan's thoughts on the subject at the beginning of today's INSIDE Call me Back episode. 00:00 Introduction03:20 The plan to occupy Gaza05:15 The significance of Gaza City06:57 Concerns about the plan12:02 Where does Hamas lie?17:47 Israeli public opinion on the planCREDITS:ILAN BENATAR - Producer & EditorADAAM JAMES LEVIN-AREDDY - Executive ProducerMARTIN HUERGO - Sound EditorMARIANGELES BURGOS - Additional EditingMAYA RACKOFF - Operations DirectorGABE SILVERSTEIN - ResearchYUVAL SEMO - Music Composer
You can subscribe to Inside Call me Back at inside.arkmedia.org If you have a friend or family member who you think would enjoy being a subscriber, we have gifting options available here: inside.arkmedia.org/gifts Watch Call me Back on YouTube: youtube.com/@CallMeBackPodcastCheck out Ark Media's other podcasts: For Heaven's Sake: lnk.to/rfGlrA‘What's Your Number?': lnk.to/rbGlvMFor sponsorship inquiries, please contact: callmeback@arkmedia.orgTo contact us, sign up for updates, and access transcripts, visit: arkmedia.org/Ark Media on Instagram: instagram.com/arkmediaorgDan on X: x.com/dansenorDan on Instagram: instagram.com/dansenorTo order Dan Senor & Saul Singer's book, The Genius of Israel: tinyurl.com/bdeyjsdn
In one of the most talked-about episodes of Wondering Jews, Mijal Bitton and Noam Weissman dive into the emotional and complicated questions facing Jews today: If you love Israel… why don't you live there? Listen again or for the first time to Mijal and Noam open up about the cognitive dissonance of loving Israel while living in the Diaspora. Along the way, they reflect on the insights of Jewish giants and share candid stories of love, guilt, dreams—and bagels. BOOK TICKETS for Unpacking Israeli History LIVE in NYC - Sep 7 at 92nd St Y with special guest Dan Senor: https://unpacked.bio/uihny25 Use Promo code UIH20 to get 20% off your tickets Here are some of the sources referenced in the episode: Unpacking Israeli History: Does Israel Represent All Jews?: The Great Debate Blaustein/Ben Gurion exchange Lubavitcher Rebbe's response to Ariel Sharon Please follow Wondering Jews on Instagram! instagram.com/wonderingjews. Check us out on Youtube. Get in touch at our new email address: WonderingJews@unpacked.media and call us, 1-833-WON-Jews. ------------ This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media. For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out: Jewish History Nerds Unpacking Israeli History Soulful Jewish Living Stars of David with Elon Gold
BOOK TICKETS for Unpacking Israeli History LIVE in NYC - Sep 7 at 92nd St Y with special guest Dan Senor: https://unpacked.bio/uihny25 Use Promo code UIH20 to get 20% off your tickets In the explosive finale of our 3-part series on the Suez Crisis, Noam Weissman unpacks the hidden aftershocks of Israel's most underrated war. This episode reveals how the 1956 Sinai Campaign reshaped global alliances and Middle East power dynamics; from a swift IDF victory to a humiliating Anglo-French retreat, from Soviet nuclear threats to America's diplomatic power play. Listen to first-hand accounts of the brutal expulsion of Egyptian Jews triggered by the Suez Crisis . This is not just a war story—it's a turning point in Jewish, Israeli, and world history. Here's a link to Jean Naggar's memoir Sipping from the Nile: My Exodus from Egypt. Click here for the sources used in this episode. Please get in touch at noam@unpacked.media. Check us out on Youtube. This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media. ------------------- For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out: Jewish History Nerds Soulful Jewish Living Stars of David with Elon Gold Wondering Jews
Episode description: Rabbi Meir Soloveichik (“Rabbi Solly”) is the senior rabbi of the oldest Jewish congregation in the United States, Shearith Israel, located in Manhattan, New York City. Considered one of America's great Jewish thinkers, Rabbi Solly outlines the Jewish connections to America's founding. Talking with Museum of the Bible CEO and Unscrolled guest host Dr. Carlos Campo, Rabbi Solly also shares some helpful resources to learn more about biblical Israel and the strong bond and traditions stemming from the Hebrew Bible. Guest bio: Rabbi Dr. Meir Y. Soloveichik is one of America's preeminent Jewish thinkers, educators, and religious leaders. He is the senior rabbi of Congregation Shearith Israel in New York City, the oldest Jewish congregation in the United States. Show Notes: https://meirsoloveichik.com/ https://www.shearithisrael.org/ “The Gifts of the Jews” by Thomas Cahill, https://www.amazon.com/Gifts-Jews-Changed-Everyone-History/dp/0385482493 “Jerusalem: The Biography” by Simon Sebag Montefiore, https://www.amazon.com/Jerusalem-Biography-Simon-Sebag-Montefiore/dp/0307280500 “Call Me Back with Dan Senor,” podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/call-me-back-with-dan-senor/id1539292794 Stay up to date with Museum of the Bible on social media: Instagram: @museumofBible X: @museumofBible Facebook: museumofBible Linkedin: museumofBible YouTube: @museumoftheBible
Dan Senor, host of the Call Me Back podcast and co-author of The Genius of Israel, is bullish on Israel. Is there anything that could change his mind? He and Adaam discuss what makes Israeli society strong and what might make it turn against itself. They also can't resist some media naval gazing and debate whether the fall of sense-making gatekeepers is a boon or a curse.On the agenda:-Brave new media-Could anything make Dan go bearish on Israel?-Something bigger than yourself-The abominable dilemma (why Israel negotiates with terrorists)-War is hell (and the rest is sentimentality)-How to criticize Israel in an anti-Zionist era Uncertain Things is hosted and produced by Adaam James Levin-Areddy and Vanessa M. Quirk. For more doomsday thoughts, subscribe to: http://uncertain.substack.com. Get full access to Uncertain Things at uncertain.substack.com/subscribe
This week, America celebrates 249 years of independence. As the countdown begins to our 250th birthday, our semiquincentennial, it is natural to ask what citizenship means to us as Americans, and as American Jews. How do we fulfill our obligations not just to preserve what we've inherited, but to renew it for future generations? These aren't just political questions—they're moral ones, rooted in how we understand our responsibilities to one another and to the institutions that shape our common life. To address those questions, this week's podcast is going to do something a little different. Rather than host a conversation, we bring you a speech by one of the great teachers of American civics: Yuval Levin, a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute and the editor of National Affairs. Speaking at the 2024 Jewish Leadership Conference, Levin offered a meditation on what we can learn from the biblical figure of Nehemiah—drawing on the story the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls to understand how we must approach the renewal of American culture today. His central insight is striking: just as Nehemiah's workers rebuilt Jerusalem with “a trowel in one hand and a sword in the other,” we too must simultaneously rebuild and defend our institutions. This is a speech that bridges ancient biblical wisdom to the challenges of American society, showing how the Hebrew Bible speaks directly to our moment of cultural dissolution and the opportunity for renewal. If you're inspired by this kind of discussion—the intersection of Jewish ideas and public life—you might want to consider attending this year's Jewish Leadership Conference, featuring Herzl Prize laureates Ben Shapiro, Bari Weiss, and Dan Senor. You can find information about the 2025 conference at www.jewishleadershipconference.org.
Watch Call me Back on YouTube: youtube.com/@CallMeBackPodcastCheck out Ark Media's other podcasts: For Heaven's Sake: lnk.to/rfGlrA‘What's Your Number?': lnk.to/rbGlvMFor sponsorship inquiries, please contact: callmeback@arkmedia.orgTo contact us, sign up for updates, and access transcripts, visit: arkmedia.org/Ark Media on Instagram: instagram.com/arkmediaorgDan on X: x.com/dansenorDan on Instagram: instagram.com/dansenorTo order Dan Senor & Saul Singer's book, The Genius of Israel: https://tinyurl.com/bdeyjsdnToday's Episode (Part II):In the first part of our conversation, we talked about how Iran built its nuclear program and gave a history and scientific tutorial on how it was / could be done. In the second part, we talk about what is believed to be remaining after the Israeli and U.S. attacks. We welcome back to the show, Lahav Harkov who has been covering this topic in detail for Jewish Insider. David Albright, a physicist and world renowned expert and author on nuclear weapons, and the President and Founder of the Institute for Science and International Security, also joins us. Check out David's work here: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B001HPEB5C/allbooks?ingress=0&visitId=1b1c48b5-d51b-4ce5-b43e-dc94a51aadecCheck out Lahav's work at Jewish Insider here: https://jewishinsider.com/authors/lahav-harkov/–CREDITS:ILAN BENATAR - Producer & EditorMARTIN HUERGO - Sound EditorMARIANGELES BURGOS - Additional EditingMAYA RACKOFF - Operations DirectorGABE SILVERSTEIN - ResearchYUVAL SEMO - Music Composer
Hugh discusses Iran, the Big Beautiful Bill, the NYC Mayoral race, and talks with Senate Majority Leader John Thune, Rep. Jason Smith, Mary Katharine Ham, Dan Senor, Salena Zito, Dave Barry, and Rick Atkinson.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Watch Call me Back on YouTube: youtube.com/@CallMeBackPodcastCheck out Ark Media's other podcasts: For Heaven's Sake: lnk.to/rfGlrA‘What's Your Number?': lnk.to/rbGlvMFor sponsorship inquiries, please contact: callmeback@arkmedia.orgTo contact us, sign up for updates, and access transcripts, visit: arkmedia.org/Ark Media on Instagram: instagram.com/arkmediaorgDan on X: x.com/dansenorDan on Instagram: instagram.com/dansenorTo order Dan Senor & Saul Singer's book, The Genius of Israel: https://tinyurl.com/bdeyjsdnToday's Episode:It feels like a month's worth of news has erupted out of the Middle East since Saturday night, when the U.S. bombed Iran's three key nuclear facilities. On Monday, the IRGC responded by firing missiles at the American El Udeid Air base in Qatar – an attack it warned Qatar (and the U.S.) about beforehand. Throughout that day, the Israeli Air Force struck critical IRGC targets, including multiple hubs of internal operations, military headquarters, missile production sites, radar systems, and missile storage infrastructure. In a highly symbolic move, the IAF struck Evin Prison – known for holding Iranian dissidents – as well as Iran's so-called “Israel doomsday clock,” located in Tehran's “Palestine square.”And then, at 6:02pm EST, President Trump announced a “complete and total ceasefire” via Truth Social.Shortly before the ceasefire began, Iran launched six successive missile barrages toward targets throughout Israel. At around 5:40am Israel time, one of these missiles impacted a residential building in Beersheba, tragically killing four people and injuring 22. At 10:30am Israel time, about three-and-a-half hours after the ceasefire was meant to take effect, Iran fired two missiles at Israel's North. Israeli officials vowed to respond forcefully to this breach in the ceasefire, but settled for a “symbolic” target – an Iranian radar north of Tehran – after pressure from President Trump not to escalate.To unpack the history that's taken place over the past few days; the details of the ceasefire and how it will be enforced; and how a possible end to this Iran War (or this phase of the Iran War) could impact the Gaza War and the hostages, we are joined once again by senior analyst at Yedioth Achronot and Call me Back regular Nadav Eyal and chief political analyst at Channel 12 and another Call me Back regular Amit Segal.–CREDITS:ILAN BENATAR - Producer & EditorMARTIN HUERGO - Sound EditorMARIANGELES BURGOS - Additional EditingMAYA RACKOFF - Operations DirectorGABE SILVERSTEIN - ResearchYUVAL SEMO - Music Composer
Watch Call me Back on YouTube: youtube.com/@CallMeBackPodcastCheck out Ark Media's other podcasts: For Heaven's Sake: lnk.to/rfGlrA‘What's Your Number?': lnk.to/rbGlvMFor sponsorship inquiries, please contact: callmeback@arkmedia.orgTo contact us, sign up for updates, and access transcripts, visit: arkmedia.org/Ark Media on Instagram: instagram.com/arkmediaorgDan on X: x.com/dansenorDan on Instagram: instagram.com/dansenorToday's Episode:Around 8pm ET on Saturday June 21st, President Trump announced that the U.S. launched an attack on three Iranian nuclear sites: Natanz, Esfahan, and Fordow. At 10pm ET, in a live address from the White House, the President called the attacks on Iran a “spectacular military success” and said Iran's three targeted nuclear facilities had been “completely and totally obliterated.”Joining us to unpack what we know about the attack and what Iran might do next and what happens next for the U.S. and Israel are Call me Back regulars Nadav Eyal and Amit Segal. We will be following these historic developments closely here at Call me Back. Stay tuned for more news updates and episodes this week. –CREDITS:ILAN BENATAR - Producer & EditorMARTIN HUERGO - Sound EditorMARIANGELES BURGOS - Additional EditingMAYA RACKOFF - Operations DirectorGABE SILVERSTEIN - ResearchYUVAL SEMO - Music Composer
Watch Call me Back on YouTube: youtube.com/@CallMeBackPodcastCheck out Ark Media's other podcasts: For Heaven's Sake: lnk.to/rfGlrA‘What's Your Number?': lnk.to/rbGlvMFor sponsorship inquiries, please contact: callmeback@arkmedia.orgTo contact us, sign up for updates, and access transcripts, visit: arkmedia.org/Ark Media on Instagram: instagram.com/arkmediaorgDan on X: x.com/dansenorDan on Instagram: instagram.com/dansenorToday's Episode:For New York City Jews, there are two major news stories that are front of mind. There is, of course, Israel's war with Iran. And then there is the New York City Democratic mayoral primary, which will take place this Tuesday, June 24th. This year's NYC mayoral election is of particular consequence because of 33-year-old self-proclaimed socialist Zohran Mamdani, to many Jewish New Yorkers because of his positions on antisemitism and Israel. In college, Mamdani co-founded “Students for Justice in Palestine.” Now, while he claims to be concerned about raising antisemitism, he defends the phrase “globalize the intifada.” When asked about his position on Israel two weeks ago, Mamdani said that as mayor, he would bring NYC back into compliance with international law, suggesting that the city administration's support for Israel is illegal.To unpack this significant election cycle, we are joined by Howard Wolfson, who leads the Education Program of Bloomberg Philanthropies. From 2010 to 2013, Howard served as the NYC Deputy Mayor for Government Affairs and Communications – where he oversaw local, state, and federal government relations, with particular involvement in the education, transportation, and technology sectors. Howard currently runs Former NYC Mayor Mike Bloomberg's SuperPAC and continues to advise Bloomberg on matters of politics and communications.–CREDITS:ILAN BENATAR - Producer & EditorMARTIN HUERGO - Sound EditorMARIANGELES BURGOS - Additional EditingMAYA RACKOFF - Operations DirectorGABE SILVERSTEIN - ResearchYUVAL SEMO - Music Composer
Watch Call me Back on YouTube: youtube.com/@CallMeBackPodcastCheck out Ark Media's other podcasts: For Heaven's Sake: lnk.to/rfGlrA‘What's Your Number?': lnk.to/rbGlvMFor sponsorship inquiries, please contact: callmeback@arkmedia.orgTo contact us, sign up for updates, and access transcripts, visit: arkmedia.org/Ark Media on Instagram: instagram.com/arkmediaorgDan on X: x.com/dansenorDan on Instagram: instagram.com/dansenorToday's Episode:If President Trump decides against the U.S. joining the war, what can the IDF achieve on its own? In today's episode, senior analyst at Yedioth Achronot and Call me Back regular Nadav Eyal discusses this very question as well as the damage caused by Iran's most recent missile barrages and how Israeli air defenses are working to confront the threat.CREDITS:ILAN BENATAR - Producer & EditorMARTIN HUERGO - Sound EditorMARIANGELES BURGOS - Additional EditingMAYA RACKOFF - Operations DirectorGABE SILVERSTEIN - ResearchYUVAL SEMO - Music Composer
Watch Call me Back on YouTube: youtube.com/@CallMeBackPodcastCheck out Ark Media's other podcasts: For Heaven's Sake: https://lnk.to/rfGlrA‘What's Your Number?': https://lnk.to/rbGlvMFor sponsorship inquiries, please contact: callmeback@arkmedia.orgTo contact us, sign up for updates, and access transcripts, visit: https://arkmedia.org/Ark Media on Instagram: https://instagram.com/arkmediaorgDan on X: https://x.com/dansenorDan on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dansenorToday's Episode:Will the U.S. play a direct military role in the destruction of Iran's nuclear program? Over the past few days, President Trump has been reinforcing his support for the Israeli offensive and his position that Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon. Most assessments suggest that the IAF does not have the capability to completely destroy Iran's nuclear program. If that's the case, what's the end-game? Should Iran's nuclear program be destroyed by the US, delayed by Israel, or disassembled by Iran through a deal?On today's episode, we dive into these critical questions with senior analyst at Yedioth Achronot and Call me Back regular, Nadav Eyal, and Iran foreign policy expert and senior fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, Karim Sadjapour.Karim is a first-time guest. In addition to working at Carnegie, he is a contributing writer to the Atlantic. He was previously an analyst with the International Crisis Group, based in Tehran and Washington. He has lived in Latin America, Europe, and the Middle East (including both Iran and the Arab world) and speaks Persian. Karim is an adjunct professor at Georgetown University's School of Foreign Service, teaching a class on U.S. foreign policy and the Middle East.Nadav and Karim discuss what the mood is inside Iran, what military options are on the table, and possible outcomes of the war.CREDITS:ILAN BENATAR - Producer & EditorMARTIN HUERGO - Sound EditorMARIANGELES BURGOS - Additional EditingMAYA RACKOFF - Operations DirectorGABE SILVERSTEIN - ResearchYUVAL SEMO - Music Composer
Watch Call me Back on YouTube: youtube.com/@CallMeBackPodcastCheck out Ark Media's other podcasts: For Heaven's Sake: https://lnk.to/rfGlrAWhat's Your Number?: https://lnk.to/rbGlvMFor sponsorship inquiries, please contact: callmeback@arkmedia.orgTo contact us and sign up for updates visit: arkmedia.orgArk Media on Instagram: instagram.com/arkmediaorgDan on X: x.com/dansenorDan on Instagram: instagram.com/dansenorToday's Episode:In the early hours of Friday, June 13th, the Israeli Air Force began major attacks on Iranian nuclear and military facilities, as well as IRGC leaders and nuclear scientists. The attack prompted an Iranian retaliation which began later that night. Saturday, the second day of war with Iran, became the deadliest night for Israeli civilians since October 7th, after two massive barrages of Iranian rockets killed eleven Israelis and wounded over 200. Seven people were killed in Bat Yam, where a missile struck a residential building, and four were killed in the Arab city of Tamra, east of Haifa. As the Israeli offensive on Iran proceeds, the big question is; will the United States join Israel's offensive to destroy Iran's nuclear program?In this episode, Amit Segal, Call me Back Regular and senior political analyst for Channel 12, joins us to discuss Saturday night's attack on Israel, and the possibility of U.S. military action against Iran.CREDITS:ILAN BENATAR - Producer & EditorMARTIN HUERGO - Sound EditorMARIANGELES BURGOS - Additional EditingMAYA RACKOFF - Operations DirectorGABE SILVERSTEIN - ResearchYUVAL SEMO - Music Composer
Dan Senor, a leading expert on Israel and the Middle East, joins Scott in an emergency episode to discuss the dramatic escalation between Israel and Iran. They get into the latest attacks, the risks of regional war, and what this escalation means for the U.S. and global stability. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
The Ark is ExpandingAt around 8 PM New York time, the Israeli Air Force launched a historic preemptive strike on Iran's nuclear infrastructure, military assets and military leadership. The Israel-Iran War has begun, or at least entered a new stage. In response, the IDF Home Front Command swiftly updated its guidelines, banning all educational, social, and workplace gatherings. Israelis have been instructed to stay near bomb shelters as the nation braces for Iran's counterstrike.As you try to process all the fast-moving, history-making developments, we want to offer an expanded suite of voices and content from Israel.You might have noticed that over the past few months, I've referred to Call me Back as an “Ark Media” podcast. After four-and-a-half years of Call me Back standing on its own, we are now building a podcast network. Ark Media is home to the topics bringing us together — Jewish life, Israel's future, and our rapidly changing geopolitics — even when many of our guests have spirited and good faith disagreements about these issues.About a month ago, Ark Media launched its second podcast, What's Your Number, and today we are excited to announce that Ark Media will be joined by a third podcast - For Heaven's Sake, co-hosted by Donniel Hartman and Yossi Klein Halevi, of the Shalom Hartman Institute. Donniel is the Hartman Institute's president, and Yossi, who has been a recurring guest on Call me Back, is a Senior Fellow.I don't always agree with Donniel's or Yossi's views on contentious political topics - but that's precisely the point. At Ark Media, we believe that engaging with diverse Jewish perspectives, grounded in shared values, is central to presenting the dilemmas that Israel is facing as it strives to survive and thrive in a world turned upside down. Whatever your politics, Donniel and Yossi are essential voices to consider, as we navigate the challenges facing Israel and Jews worldwide.Starting this week, Ark Media will publish For Heaven's Sake episodes on a weekly basis. You can find them wherever you listen to your podcasts - just don't forget to subscribe!
Watch Call me Back on YouTube: youtube.com/@CallMeBackPodcastSubscribe to Ark Media's new podcast ‘What's Your Number?': lnk.to/DZulpYFor sponsorship inquiries, please contact: callmeback@arkmedia.orgTo contact us, sign up for updates, and access transcripts, visit: arkmedia.org/Ark Media on Instagram: instagram.com/arkmediaorgDan on X: x.com/dansenorDan on Instagram: instagram.com/dansenorToday's episode:Since the beginning of the war, 20 months ago, politicians and public figures have referred to ‘total victory' and a complete defeat of Hamas to define the war's objectives. But what exactly does that mean? And at what cost to Israeli society?Today's guest, Dr. Tal Becker, has been exploring what it means to actually “win” the war. What does it look like? How to measure it? Tal recently served as the Legal Advisor of the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs and currently serves as Vice President of the Shalom Hartman Institute. He is a veteran member of successive Israeli peace negotiation teams and played an instrumental role in negotiating and drafting the historic Abraham Accords. Tal earned his doctorate from Columbia University in New York, and is the recipient of numerous scholarly awards, including the Guggenheim Prize for best international law book for his book "Terrorism and the State".CREDITS:ILAN BENATAR - Producer & EditorMARTIN HUERGO - Sound EditorMARIANGELES BURGOS - Additional EditingMAYA RACKOFF - Operations DirectorGABE SILVERSTEIN - ResearchYUVAL SEMO - Music Composer
Watch Call me Back on YouTube: youtube.com/@CallMeBackPodcastSubscribe to Ark Media's new podcast ‘What's Your Number?': lnk.to/DZulpYFor sponsorship inquiries, please contact: callmeback@arkmedia.orgTo contact us, sign up for updates, and access transcripts, visit: arkmedia.org/Ark Media on Instagram: instagram.com/arkmediaorgDan on X: x.com/dansenorDan on Instagram: www.instagram.com/dansenorToday's episode:Following the October 7th Hamas attack on Israel, Brett McGurk was a lead negotiator for the U.S. Government in every round of hostage/ceasefire negotiations in 2023, 2024, and January 2025. In today's episode, which we recorded before a live audience at the Manhattan JCC last week, Brett sat down for his first long-form/on-the-record conversation on his lessons learned, including how these lessons inform the current (on-again/off-gain) negotiations over the Witkoff Plan. Brett McGurk has held senior national security posts across the Bush, Obama, Trump, and Biden administrations. Most recently, he served as President Biden's White House Coordinator for the Middle East and North Africa. In this role, he spearheaded U.S. Government efforts across the region to secure the release of Israeli hostages and a ceasefire in Gaza and he coordinated international support for Israel's defense against Iranian ballistic missile attacks.As Special Presidential Envoy for both President Obama and President Trump, McGurk was an architect of the global coalition of more than 80 countries together with local forces on the ground to defeat ISIS. He also led secret negotiations with Iran to secure the release of American hostages, including Washington Post reporter Jason Rezaein. As a senior White House official under George W. Bush, Brett was an early advocate for a change in Iraq war policy and helped develop “the surge” strategy. He also negotiated the Strategic Framework Agreement with Iraq, which continues to guide U.S. relations between the two countries. He is now a Venture Partner at Lux Capital, a venture capital firm based in New York City and Silicon Valley, as well as a Special Advisor for international affairs at Cisco, and holds fellowships at both the Harvard's Belfer Center and the Atlantic Council. He's also a CNN Global Affairs Analyst. CREDITS:ILAN BENATAR - Producer & EditorMARTIN HUERGO - Sound EditorMARIANGELES BURGOS - Additional EditingMAYA RACKOFF - Operations DirectorGABE SILVERSTEIN - ResearchYUVAL SEMO - Music Composer
Upcoming Live Event: Call Me Back – Live Podcast recording with Special Guest Brett McGurk — June 4, 7:30 PM at the Manhattan JCC. REGISTER HERE: https://www.mmjccm.org/event/call-me-back-dan-senor-podcastSubscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@CallMeBackPodcast?sub_confirmation=1 Subscribe to Ark Media's new podcast ‘What's Your Number?': https://www.youtube.com/@wyn.podcast?sub_confirmation=1 For sponsorship inquiries, please contact: callmeback@arkmedia.orgTo contact us, sign up for updates, and access transcripts, visit: https://arkmedia.org/Ark Media on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arkmediaorgDan on X: https://x.com/dansenorDan on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dansenorToday's episode:In one week, Jews in Israel and around the world will be celebrating the holiday of Shavuot. But, for many Jews, it's one of the least understood or familiar holidays, and yet it's among the most important. So today we are providing a Shavuot crash course for the Call Me Back community as well as some inspiration. For all the obvious reasons, it feels like we need it.Rachel Goldberg-Polin returns to Call Me Back to help us prepare for Shavuot after she helped so many of us navigate our Passover Seders. CREDITS:ILAN BENATAR - Producer & EditorMARTIN HUERGO - Sound EditorMARIANGELES BURGOS - Additional EditingGABE SILVERSTEIN - ResearchYUVAL SEMO - Music Composer
In the aftermath of October 7, Jews around the world experienced a surge of emotion and identity—an outpouring of Jewish adrenaline. But as the energy fades, the real question emerges: what does it actually mean to live a meaningful Jewish life?Rabbi Bernath draws from Dan Senor's "State of World Jewry" Speech and 92Y last week, A.B. Yehoshua's challenge to diaspora Jews, and the timeless answers offered by our prophets and sages—from King David to the Rebbe. He reminds us that Jewish life isn't about where you live, but how you live: with integrity, with mitzvos, with visible Jewish pride.Rooted in this week's Parshah, the sermon invites us to reclaim the mitzvos that affirm who we are in a world trying to forget us—and reminds us that the most radical act of Jewish survival is living Jewish every single day.Key Takeaways:October 8th Jews Need More than Adrenaline: Emotional response to tragedy must evolve into sustainable Jewish living—rooted in action, not just feeling.Geography Isn't Identity: Living in Israel doesn't automatically make one Jewish in practice. Living Jewishly—through mitzvot and moral clarity—does.Our Prophets Knew the Secret: King David, Isaiah, Micah, and Chavakuk each distilled Judaism to its ethical essence, but only because ritual was then a given. In exile, the inverse is true—we must rebuild our ritual identity.The Rebbe's Mitzvah Campaign Echoes the Prophets: Strategic mitzvot like tefillin, Shabbat candles, and kosher aren't just practices—they are declarations of identity.We Must Lead Jewish Lives—Loudly and Proudly: In today's world, being visibly Jewish is an act of courage and continuity. This is our generation's mission.#JewishIdentity #Jewish #Judaism #October7 #October7th #DanSenor #mitzvah #mitzvahcampaign #ABYehoshua #LivingJewish #KingDavid #TorahLessons #BibleStudy #Bible #Exile #JewishResiliance Join us for a special evening exploring:• The rise and trials of David HaMelech as told in Tanach• What Kabbalah and classical commentaries reveal behind the scenesRSVP HERE https://ndg.chabadsuite.net/civicrm/event/register?reset=1&id=77Support the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath's work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath's YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi
Upcoming Live Event: Call Me Back – Live Podcast recording with Special Guest Brett McGurk — June 4, 7:30 PM at the Manhattan JCC. REGISTER HERE: mmjccm.org/event/call-me-back-dan-senor-podcastSubscribe to our YouTube channel: youtube.com/@CallMeBackPodcast?sub_confirmation=1 Subscribe to Ark Media's new podcast ‘What's Your Number?': youtube.com/@wyn.podcast?sub_confirmation=1 For sponsorship inquiries, please contact: callmeback@arkmedia.orgTo contact us, sign up for updates, and access transcripts, visit: arkmedia.org/Ark Media on Instagram: instagram.com/arkmediaorgDan on X: x.com/dansenorDan on Instagram: instagram.com/dansenorToday's episode:On Wednesday night, two employees of the Israeli Embassy in Washington, Sarah Milgrim and Yaron Lischinsky, were shot dead by Elias Rodriguez, a radical left-wing activist. “I did it for Palestine, I did it for Gaza,” he said after being taken into custody and charged with first-degree murder.It's been almost two years since the chant ‘globalize the Intifada' has gone mainstream. Is what happened in DC a manifestation of that chant, or is this a lone-wolf incident? If we look around the globe - from Canada, to France, to Germany, Sweden, the UK and Australia - it looks like the US might be joining an already established club, albeit, a bit late. How should the Jewish community in the US, and Jewish communities around the world prepare, if this is indeed a global intifada? With us today to discuss all of this is Mitch Silber, who served as Director of Intelligence Analysis at the NYPD and is one of the foremost experts on counterterrorism and radicalization. Mitch currently leads the Community Security Initiative NY. CREDITS:ILAN BENATAR - Producer & EditorMARTIN HUERGO - Sound EditorMARIANGELES BURGOS - Additional EditingGABE SILVERSTEIN - ResearchYUVAL SEMO - Music Composer
Watch Call me Back on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CallMeBackPodcastSubscribe to Ark Media's new podcast ‘What's Your Number?': lnk.to/HJI2mXFor sponsorship inquiries, please contact: callmeback@arkmedia.orgTo contact us, sign up for updates, and access transcripts, visit: https://arkmedia.org/Ark Media on Instagram: http://instagram.com/arkmediaorgDan on X: https://x.com/dansenorDan on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dansenorI have been moved by the reaction to my speech at the annual State of World Jewry Address in the last episode. In Part II of that evening at the 92nd Street Y, I sat down with Rabbi David Ingber, following my address, for a conversation. Rabbi Ingber picked up on some of the ideas in my talk…to probe some more…and push me on several of the issues I raised. Rabbi Ingber is the Senior Director for Jewish Life and Senior Director of the Bronfman Center at 92NY. He also serves as the founding rabbi of Romemu. He serves on the faculty for the Wexner Heritage Program and the Shalom Hartman Institute of North America and Israel. Rabbi Ingber is also the host of the “Detours & Destinations” podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/detours-destinations/id1809796304
Dan Senor's 2025 State of World Jewry Address at the 92nd Street Y (92NY). Dan's address expanded upon many of the topics we often discuss on Call Me Back, but it primarily focused on the challenges ahead for Diaspora Jewish communities in a post-10/07 world. Dan also laid out a first draft of an action […]
Watch Call me Back on YouTube: youtube.com/@CallMeBackPodcastSubscribe to Ark Media's new podcast ‘What's Your Number?': lnk.to/HJI2mXFor sponsorship inquiries, please contact: callmeback@arkmedia.orgTo contact us, sign up for updates, and access transcripts, visit: arkmedia.orgArk Media on Instagram: instagram.com/arkmediaorgDan on X: x.com/dansenorDan on Instagram: instagram.com/dansenorToday's episode:Dan Senor's 2025 State of World Jewry Address at the 92nd Street Y (92NY).Dan's address expanded upon many of the topics we often discuss on Call Me Back, but it primarily focused on the challenges ahead for Diaspora Jewish communities in a post-10/07 world. Dan also laid out a first draft of an action plan for Jewish Peoplehood that is no longer prominent and weak but one that is instead Jewish and strong. CREDITS:ILAN BENATAR - Producer & EditorMARTIN HUERGO - Sound EditorGABE SILVERSTEIN - ResearchYUVAL SEMO - Music Composer
Ark Media is looking for two college summer interns – one who can support operations and another who can support product design. To apply, please follow the links below:Product: https://app.testgorilla.com/s/b1e1of2hOperations: https://app.testgorilla.com/s/7hy7zlpuWatch Call me Back on YouTube: youtube.com/@CallMeBackPodcastSubscribe to Ark Media's new podcast ‘What's Your Number?': lnk.to/HJI2mXArk Media on Instagram: instagram.com/arkmediaorgTo contact us, sign up for updates, and access transcripts, visit: arkmedia.orgDan on X: x.com/dansenorDan on Instagram: instagram.com/dansenor Today's episode:Latest reporting from Times of Israel on wildfires: https://www.timesofisrael.com/fire-authority-needs-double-the-budget-to-cope-during-mega-fires-era-official/Next week, President Trump is heading to Saudi Arabia to convene a summit with leaders from the Gulf Cooperation Council—Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Oman. The agenda? Arms deals, AI partnerships, and a substantial Saudi investment pledge. Israel isn't on his itinerary, although Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth has just announced that he will be traveling to Israel in advance of President Trump's Middle East trip, and that Secretary Hegseth will be meeting with Prime Minister Netanyahu, Defense Minister Katz and Israel's military leadership. He will then travel to Saudi Arabia to accompany President Trump on his travels. The Middle East visit will also take place against the backdrop of an important personnel change on Trump's national security team – namely, the national security advisor Mike Waltz stepping down and moving to the UN. To unpack what's at stake for Israel and the US, we're joined by Mike Singh, former senior director for Middle East affairs at the National Security Council and now managing director at the Washington Institute, and Call me Back regular, Nadav Eyal, columnist for Yediot Ahronot.CREDITS:ILAN BENATAR - Producer & EditorMARTIN HUERGO - Sound EditorGABE SILVERSTEIN - ResearchYUVAL SEMO - Music Composer
Watch Call me Back on YouTube: youtube.com/@CallMeBackPodcastSubscribe to Ark Media's new podcast ‘What's Your Number?': lnk.to/HJI2mXArk Media on Instagram: instagram.com/arkmediaorgTo contact us, sign up for updates, and access transcripts, visit: arkmedia.orgDan on X: x.com/dansenorDan on Instagram: instagram.com/dansenorToday's episode:The Iran-backed Houthis fired a ballistic missile at Ben Gurion Airport on Sunday morning. The IDF said it tried to intercept the missile using Arrow and THAAD systems, but failed. A number of US and international airlines have since suspended flights in and out of Israel. This was the first time the Houthis had successfully hit Israel's national airport. To help us understand what happened and possible next steps, we are joined by Call Me Back regular Nadav Eyal for an emergency episode. CREDITS:ILAN BENATAR - Producer & EditorMARTIN HUERGO - Sound EditorGABE SILVERSTEIN - ResearchYUVAL SEMO - Music Composer
To help struggling Israeli combat veterans find their way back, please visit the American Friends of Israel Navy SEALs' (AFINS): afins.us/warriorcareUpcoming Event Notice: Dan Senor will be delivering this year's State of World Jewry Address at the 92nd Street Y (92NY) on Tuesday May 13 at 7:30 pm. To register: 92ny.org/event/the-state-of-world-jewry-addressWatch Call me Back on YouTube: youtube.com/@CallMeBackPodcastSubscribe to Ark Media's new podcast ‘What's Your Number?': lnk.to/HJI2mXArk Media on Instagram: instagram.com/arkmediaorgTo contact us, sign up for updates, and access transcripts, visit: arkmedia.orgDan on X: x.com/dansenorDan on Instagram: instagram.com/dansenorToday's episode:Flames that engulfed more than 5,000 acres around Jerusalem as Israel marked its 77th Independence Day. Dozens of Independence Day ceremonies were canceled, and according to many Israelis — the feelings of national solidarity that normally characterize this day were scarce. For the families of hostages in Gaza, this was their second Yom Haatzmaut without their loved ones. And yet, Israelis are nothing if not resilient. The country's population has now surpassed 10 million people. Forty-five percent of all Jews on Earth today call Israel home. So, while there are reasons for concern, there are also reasons for hope. Reflecting on how far Israel has come, and where it may go from here, we are joined by bestselling author and senior fellow at the Shalom Hartman Institute, Yossi Klein Halevi, to discuss the debt we have to Israel's founders, and to the soldiers who have fallen in its defense. For Yossi Klein Halevi's books: tinyurl.com/ycfcn72uCREDITS:ILAN BENATAR - Producer & EditorMARTIN HUERGO - Sound EditorGABE SILVERSTEIN - ResearchYUVAL SEMO - Music Composer