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Hosted by Dan Senor
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11 episodes with Dan Senor
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5 episodes with Dan Senor
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5 episodes with Dan Senor
You may recognize journalist Amit Segal from Dan Senor's “Call Me Back” podcast, or his contributions to The Free Press. Israelis know him as Channel 12's Chief Political Correspondent, co-host of our local version of “Meet the Press”, and author of the newly-translated bestseller: “A Call at 4 AM: Thirteen Prime Ministers and the Crucial Decisions that Shaped Israeli Politics”. He also publishes the wildly succesful and very useful daily newsletter “It's Noon in Israel”.We discuss the madness of the Israeli political system, why Israeli media has no choice but to try and be objective, where Americans should get their news, the ultra-orthodox question, and what it was like to be stuck on a broken plane filled with Knesset members and holocaust survivors.This episode NOT sponsored by Chaya Leah's brother's laundromat Super Clean in Jerusalem. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit askajew.substack.com/subscribe
After two incredibly long years, we are finally able to celebrate the return of all living Israeli hostages from the hell of Hamas. Absent specifics and relying on a long history of failed “new beginnings” in the Middle East, Trump's 20-point Peace Plan begs the question, what comes next? With a successful Phase One and […]
After two incredibly long years, we are finally able to celebrate the return of all living Israeli hostages from the hell of Hamas. Absent specifics and relying on a long history of failed “new beginnings” in the Middle East, Trump's 20-point Peace Plan begs the question, what comes next? With a successful Phase One and a fragile Phase Two, it is with cautious optimism that we ask: how will disarmament and demilitarization be successfully carried out in Gaza? What does this mean for Israeli politics and the looming election? And how will Western leftist groups react to the end of the fake “genocide”? Dan Senor currently serves as the Chief Public Affairs Officer at Elliott Investment Management in addition to hosting his own podcast, Call Me Back. Mr. Senor served as a senior advisor to U.S. Senator Mitt Romney and former U.S. Speaker of the House Paul Ryan in their campaigns for national office. During the presidential administration of George W. Bush, Mr. Senor was based in Baghdad, where he served as chief spokesperson for the U.S.-led coalition in Iraq. Before that, he was a senior Defense Department official based in US Central Command in Qatar. Read the transcript here.Subscribe to our Substack here.
A fragile but momentous ceasefire has taken effect in Israel's two year war against Hamas, following the terror group's brutal attack on October 7th. With hostages and prisoners exchanged and hostilities paused, the hard work of forging a lasting peace begins. Dan Senor, host of the Israeli news and politics podcast, “Call Me Back,” joins Preet to discuss the diplomatic negotiations and military strategy that got us here and what's next for the region. He previously served in the Defense Department based in the Middle East in the early 2000s, and later as a senior advisor to Mitt Romney's presidential campaign, and Paul Ryan's vice presidential campaign. Then, Preet answers listener questions about the latest developments in the Kilmar Abrego Garcia case and the unusual political message showing up at airport security checkpoints. In the bonus for Insiders, Senor addresses the prospect of military tribunals for Hamas leaders and systematic deradicalization efforts. Join the CAFE Insider community to stay informed without hysteria, fear-mongering, or rage-baiting. Head to cafe.com/insider to sign up. Thank you for supporting our work. Show notes and a transcript of the episode are available on our website. You can now watch this episode! Head to CAFE's Youtube channel and subscribe. Have a question for Preet? Ask @PreetBharara on BlueSky, or Twitter with the hashtag #AskPreet. Email us at staytuned@cafe.com, or call 833-997-7338 to leave a voicemail. Stay Tuned with Preet is brought to you by CAFE and the Vox Media Podcast Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Hugh discusses the Israel-Gaza cease fire deal, Katie Porter's meltdowns, the SCOTUS voting rights oral arguments, and talks with Amit Segal, Nadav Eyal, Salena Zito, Dan Senor, Rich Lowry, Sarah Bedford, and Shermichael Singleton.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Scott speaks with Dan Senor, co-author of The Genius of Israel and host of the Call Me Back podcast, about what may be the most consequential Middle East deal in decades. They discuss how Trump's negotiators pushed Hamas to release hostages, Israel's defiance of international pressure, and the regional realignment now underway across Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey. They also explore what's next for Gaza's governance, Netanyahu's political future, and whether this moment marks the true end of the war. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Sam Harris speaks with Dan Senor about the state of the world two years after the October 7th attacks. They discuss the rise of global antisemitism, immigration and the failure of Western nations to contend with the spread of Islam, the dramatic reshaping of the Middle East, the ongoing war in Gaza, Trump's proposed peace plan, criticism of Prime Minister Netanyahu, Israel's biggest military and public relations mistakes during the war, President Trump's surprising reliability as an ally to Israel, antisemitism on the Left and the Right, Tucker Carlson, Zohran Mamdani, and other topics. If the Making Sense podcast logo in your player is BLACK, you can SUBSCRIBE to gain access to all full-length episodes at samharris.org/subscribe.
Please follow this link to support our sponsor, UJA Federation of New York: www.ujafedny.org/donateMaking Sense with Sam Harris: samharris.org/podcastsSubscribe to Inside Call me Back: https://inside.arkmedia.orgGift a subscription of Inside Call me Back: http://inside.arkmedia.org/giftsWatch 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/rfGlrASubscribe to Amit Segal's newsletter ‘It's Noon in Israel': https://arkmedia.org/amitsegal/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://instagram.com/arkmediaorgDan on X: https://x.com/dansenorDan on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dansenorTo order Dan Senor & Saul Singer's book, The Genius of Israel: https://tinyurl.com/bdeyjsdnToday's Episode: This Tuesday will mark the two-year anniversary of the October 7 massacre, in which thousands of Hamas terrorists infiltrated Southern Israel, slaughtering over 1,400 Israelis and taking more than 250 hostage. It was the deadliest day for Jews since the Holocaust. Since then, we've witnessed several fronts of war against Israel, a terrifying rise in global antisemitism, and an effort to isolate Israel diplomatically, culturally, and economically, and much more. To reflect on some of the major events and the cultural currents that have swept the world since October 7, 2023, Dan sat down with Sam Harris for a conversation being released as a simulcast both on Call me Back as well as Sam's podcast, Making Sense. Sam is a philosopher, neuroscientist, author, and public intellectual. He focuses on topics of rationality, religion, politics, and ethics, and has been a fierce critic of the rise in radical, fundamentalist islam. 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 is joined by Dan Senor, analyst and author, on why President Trump's Gaza plan is an all-around win for Israelis, Palestinians and the Arab world. Then, Fareed speaks with Diana Buttu, a Palestinian human rights lawyer and former advisor adviser to the Palestine Liberation Organization, on why she believes Trump's Gaza plan does not go far enough to ensure peace. Later, former UK Deputy Prime Minister and former senior Meta executive Nick Clegg sits down with Fareed for a wide-ranging discussion on the rise of populism in Britain and across Europe and Silicon Valley's shift to the right. Finally, Fareed talks to CNN's Jake Tapper about his new book "Race Against Terror," which tells the thrilling story of how prosecutors traversed the globe, tracking down evidence to convict terrorist "Spin Ghul.” GUESTS: Dan Senor (@dansenor), Diana Buttu (@dianabuttu), Nick Clegg (@nickclegg), Jake Tapper (@jaketapper) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
To support the Technion - Israel Institute of Technology: ats.org/callmebackSubscribe 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 Monday night, the IDF began its highly anticipated incursion into Gaza City, which has been largely untouched by Israel until recent days. The IDF announced that 40% of Gaza City's roughly one million people have already evacuated. Meanwhile, the Hostages and Missing Families Forum declared a “state of emergency” amid fears that Israel's invasion of Gaza City jeopardizes the remaining 48 hostages. On today's episode, we are joined by Ark Media Contributors Nadav Eyal and Amit Segal to discuss this major development. What does the IDF's incursion into Gaza City mean for the future of the war, the fate of the hostages, and Israel's global standing?CREDITS:ILAN BENATAR - Producer & EditorADAAM JAMES LEVIN-AREDDY - Executive ProducerMARTIN HUERGO - Sound EditorMARIANGELES BURGOS - Additional EditingMAYA RACKOFF - Operations DirectorGABE SILVERSTEIN - ResearchYUVAL SEMO - Music Composer
Host Noam Weissman sits down with Call Me Back host Dan Senor in a special live episode recorded before a sold-out crowd of nearly 1,000 at New York's iconic 92NY. Two of today's leading voices on Israel come together for a fast-paced, four-part conversation—revisiting the peace process, highlighting unsung heroes, and wrestling with the toughest questions facing Israel nearly two years after October 7. https://www.dansenor.com/callmeback Check us out on Youtube. This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, an OpenDor Media brand. ------------------- For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out: Jewish History Nerds Soulful Jewish Living Stars of David with Elon Gold Wondering Jews
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!
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