Israel ReBound: Recent Episodes
Liz and Alan
Israel ReBound: Exploring the ties that bind Jews in Nebraska to Israel through culture, identity and current events. Hosted by Liz Feldstern in Israel and Alan Potash in Nebraska.
Alan and Liz discuss the difficulties of managing our expectations for real-time updates and 24-hour news cycles - with the realities of war and the necessary military secrecy. We talk Rosh Hashanah amidst this murky backdrop and ideas to bring symbols of hope and renewal to our holiday tables.
*Alan passed away shortly after recording this episode and we are heartbroken. He cared so deeply about Israel, the Jewish people, democracy, values, identity. And his voice - sharing those ideas and asking to hear the ideas of others - is already missed. We remember his concern and passion for others, and his certainty that the world CAN be better.
Alan asked Liz what is the mood of the country as October 7th is approaching soon. How will Rosh Hashanah feel this year? Liz looks back to Rosh Hashanah of 1948 while Israel was fighting for survival.
In this episode Alan asks Liz about the tone in the country following the discovery of the murder of the six hostages discovered last week. Recognizing the strain on Israel and the support work to help others in Israel. Liz shared her observation of the funeral for Hersch Goldberg-Polin and the funerals. Also the cruelty of Hamas releasing the videos of the hostages before they were murdered. What does a protest of 500,000 people due for a country in pain.
Alan closed with the success the Israeli Paralympic team had in Paris check out the link in the Times of Israel below.
Times of Israel
For the past month Alan and Liz swapped homes. Alan moved into Liz's home in Jerusalem and Liz and her family moved into Alan's home. In this episode they share what it was like re-entering to their home countries and a few highlights from their experiences. Alan shared how much he appreciated the corner store-ha mokelt and Liz shares her joy of walking into a large grocery store. Liz shares her experience on the plane and Alan discusses the challenge of flying home when he needed to be rerouted because of the threat of war.
In this episode Liz asks Alan what it is like to be in Israel during this very tense time. He has always been the one to ask that question. One understands that there is view in Israel and a view outside of Israel during times like this. For those outside of Israel time sometimes stops for those inside Israel time has to go on. Half of the Jewish world lives in Israel and they aren't going any where.
The threat of an attack from Iran and its proxies during Tisha B'av is interesting on many levels. More next week.
In this episode Liz and Alan change places. Alan is in Israel and Liz is in America. Alan shares what he has been seeing in Israel from the National Library to the impact of Oct 7th in the south. Also, a challenging look at the massacre at Majdal Shams and Israel's retaliation from that attack. Alan also is paying attention to the threat by Iran to attack Israel. In light of the pending attack many airlines have canceled flight to and from Israel. But, being in Jerusalem seems fine.
Here is a link to a story about the medals won by Israelis.
Times of Israel
Also the story of American Israeli Amit Elor wrestler who won gold and acknowledged the hostages.
Other stories of Jews winning medals in Paris
In this episode Alan asks Liz how Israelis are responding to the assassination attempt on former President and current republican candidate Donald J. Trump. What the impact on the extending military service from 2.8 years to 3 years. Liz pointed out that if it passes it is a temporary change for five years. What else is the Knesset working on before the 3 month recess. Enjoy.
In this episode Alan and Liz discuss the idea of resilience and day to day life in Israel and America during these challenging times. Alan discusses with Liz the recent issue of the journal Sapir and the theme Resilience see below for the link to the journal he also shared Noa Tishby's new book co-authored with Emanuel Echo, Uncomfortable conversations with a Jew.
Sapir
Uncomfortable Conversations with a Jew
In this episode Alan asks Liz how are people getting on with life after being at war for over 270 day and over 100 individuals are still being held in captivity. Liz shares insights into how she is experiencing this. Israel is still not able to act like "business as usual"
In this episode Liz dies a great job of covering many issues of the day in Israel with the main focus still on the release of the hostages and the war on all fronts. She even had a chance to highlight two festivals taking place now in Jerusalem: the book festival and the food truck festival--enjoy!
In this special edition Liz shares about how she and those in her community learned about he hostage rescue and what this means for the country. She also shares why the podcast is called IsraelRebound--plus cheesecake.
As usual Liz does a great job of answering Alan's questions about current life in Israel while rockets are being launched at you. How are people observing Lag B'Omer and other insights. Thank you for listening.
As usual there is a lot to discuss. Besides current issues the sale of the Israeli Postal services was a surprise.
Liz and Alan continue to discuss current events in Israel and the impact of the campus protests.
Liz and Alan discuss the current wave of protests on American college campuses and how they are being viewed from Israel.
In this episode co-host Liz Feldstern shares her experience from Saturday night's Iranian attack on Israel and the aftermath.
This episode makes up for the two weeks we were not able to record a podcast. Alan shared his recent visit to Israel volunteering and meeting with people. He also shared his stops at Hostage Square and the rally in support of the families and hostages.
Prior to his trip he posted an opinion piece on his blog site at the Times of Israel.
Israel from the Outside
Alan asked Liz if anyone observes St. Patrick's Day in Israel and she said probably not. What about the President of Israel? Doesn't he have Irish roots? Alan brought up Matisyahu's concerts that have been canceled in cities in America how is it being played out in Israel? Liz shared that he will be coming to perform in Israel in April. Alan also mentioned that Matisyahu had a chance to connect to wounded Israeli soldiers who were on a special program in Aspen.
As for Purim, Liz mentioned a special project honoring the hostages being held in Gaza. "What are their favorite cookies?" check out Tasteslikehome.co.il
In this episode Liz updates on the Eurovision submission by Israel and also discusses why there seems to be more scrutiny on Israel no matter the event. Liz asks Alan to share how the growth of antisemitism in America is being addressed. He shares several seminars and articles that are worth looking at.
Franklin Foer's article in The Atlantic
Streicker Center events on Antisemitism
The Eye of Haman
This was a comprehensive discussion around current issues that make up the unique nature and character of Israel. Liz also shared the current challenge of Israel's submission to the Eurovision. See the links below:
Recap on elections: Link
Outcome of the ultra-orthodox Link
Eurovision Link
This was a dynamic conversation about the municipal elections in Israel--check out the resource below from The Jerusalem Post. Alan shared with Liz the many articles and interviews he has been reading and listening to about how Israelis are lookin at antisemitism especially the recent interview Daniel Gordis did with Michal Cotter-Wunsh and Einat Wilf. Check them out. Liz also updated Alan on volunteering opportunities in Israel check out the resource Ruachtova.org.il.
Links to articles and sites:
The elections: https://jpost.com/israel-news/article-788422 Daniel Gordis Israel from the Inside Einat Wilf and Michal Cotler-Wunsh
Volunteering in Israel
This was a lively episode. Liz went into details about a unique underground winery, she also discussed municipal elections in Israel, Liz also updated us on the story we discussed in 2023 about a cable car system going from the first station to the old city--Alan brought up how antisemitism is impacting Jewish and Israeli presenters for example inspirational speaker Leah Goldstein being disinvited to speak in Canada because of a "Small but vocal group of protestors" or Matisyhu's concerts being canceled. Check our Dara Horn's article The Return of the big lie
Leah Goldstein
In this episode Liz and Alan discuss the rescue of the two hostages who were taken with other members from their kibbutz on Oct. 7th. Alan shared with Liz the two commercials by the Foundation to Combat Antisemitism during the Super Bowl. Liz was reporting from Moldova.
Link to the Super Bowl Commercial
Link to the rescue of the hostages
In this episode Liz breaks down more of the issues with UNRWA, Alan introduces the city of Chicago's controversial ceasefire resolution and he shares his experience at the Rancho Mirage Writers festival's session with Bret Stephens, Bari Weiss and Emma Blankstein on Fighting Antisemitism.
The Jerusalem Post opinion piece on UNRWA that Liz mentioned:
The Rancho Mirage Writers Festival
In this episode Liz and Alan discuss the initial, preliminary ruling by the ICJ and that one of the 2 dissenting judges, Judge Julia Sebutinde from Uganda was being criticized by the Uganda government for her decision.
Alan brought up UNRWA and what is their ultimate goal as it doesn't seem to want to settle the Palestinians but to prolong their existence until....check out an article written by Dr. Einat Wilf from 2013 UNRWA: an obstacle to peace?
Thank you for listening
After a week off Liz and Alan discuss the mood in Israel after surpassing the 100 day mark. Also what will the ICJ ruling mean for Israel and a shift from dried fruit and nuts to fresh fruit for Tu B'shvat.
In this episode Alan asks Liz how the country is approaching the 100 day mark of the hostages being held in captivity and the IDF at war with Hamas. Liz asks Alan about the increase of Antisemitism in America and how that is impacting the support for Israel.
In this update Liz and Alan try and look to the future of 2024. How the 150,000 plus evacuees and their next steps to rebuild.
In this episode, Liz addresses the trauma Israelis are going through as the war with Hamas is entering the third month. TV commercials directing people to sources on PTSD and other mental health challenges. Alan shares data on who is listening to the podcast and what Liz and he are learning about the data.
In this episode Liz and Alan discuss parallels of how the war in Israel as the longest war and no end in sight is effecting people both in America and Israel.
In this episode, Liz and Alan continue discussing the daily challenges of living in Israel and the trauma everywhere. Alan shares a new poll by the Pew Research Center on American's perceptions of the war. 65% say Hamas is responsible for the war and 35% say Israel is. Here is the link to the Pew poll.
Liz shares a recent Wall Street Journal independent poll of college students asking the question "which sea and which river" surprising responses they had trouble identifying which sea and which river. In addition, when presented with a map of the Middle East they couldn't point to Israel.
In this episode Liz and Alan discuss the role the Red Cross should be playing in Gaza with checking on the hostages. This is not happening. Also, Hamas' use of psychological warfare on the hostages' families and the people of Israel.
Liz and Alan continue to discuss the impact the war is having across the country with schools, business and families.
In this episode Liz and Alan talk about the turn out in DC for the March for Israel. In comparing past marches in DC it turns Liz and Alan were both at the rally in 2002 showing support for Israel.
Alan shared results from a new poll by NPR/PBSNewshour/Marist poll
Also, Liz highlighted a few new additions to Roladin's Chanukkah collection
As we continue to address the war now in day 33 Liz provides an update and Alan asks Liz if the concept and tradition of shloshim is being observed.
As the war with Hamas enters a fourth week Liz continues to share from her perspective what is happening on the ground in Israel. This is an informative episode.
In this episode Liz shares her insights on the current issues around the war and life in Jerusalem.
In this episode Liz shares her view with Alan from her perspective living in Jerusalem.
This is a fun episode as Liz describes cultural events she and her family participated in during the holiday of Sukkot. She also described the "Mayor's" sukkah that holds 650 people--Alan tried to compare it to secular events with religious overtones to events at the White House. Alan shares insights to his sukkah. When asked about foods she ate during Sukkot she didn't have anything special to add--she did say she saw many bakeries selling sufganiot (donuts usually seen at Hanukah).
In this episode Liz and Alan discuss Yom Kippur and specifically the disruption of the prayer gathering in Tel Aviv. Alan addresses the impact the Yom Kippur war had on him 50 years ago--They discuss the joys of Sukkot!
In this episode, Liz shares her experience traveling to Odessa and exploring Jewish life today. Alan was in Israel and as usual enjoyed a few cultural high lights. One in particular was a visit to the Litvak Gallery in Tel Aviv featuring an exhibit of the artist Sara Benninga. Alan enjoyed her work and style especially her use of color.
Check out the Litvak Gallery and the curator Hadas Glazer click the link below.
http://www.litvak.com
Alan also asked for forgiveness of Liz and the listeners of the podcast if he as offended anyone this year.
In the episode Liz and Alan step away from discussing political events and focus on snack foods and sports. With kids going starting school in Israel this week the talk of food allergies is on many people's lips (pun intended). Bamba, a peanut based snack food has been a favorite of many people and recently allergist have discovered it can be used to help with peanut allergies--since neither of us are doctors we are not recommending if you have a peanut allergy to eat bambas.
Liz shared a funny video of how foreign students at Tel Aviv university react to foods in Israel click on the link below.
https://youtu.be/LxgvPvuRS_E
In this episode Liz shares her take on how the Knesset operates during the summer recess. She also explains to Alan the current conflicts with 18 members of the right wing coalition and their push to address conscription of Yeshiva students. And Liz closes with a quick look at the food truck festival. Alan shares a little about the recent hurricane in Southern California.
In this episode Alan asks Liz if she had a nice vacation in the States and if she eat anything interesting. She reported back about what she ate at the county fair and other places. She also shared a new bus program that is taking place in Jerusalem on Shabbat. A free bus service on Shabbat in Jerusalem and routes to the beach. For some people this is long overdue. Alan asked about the relief efforts saving Israelis and new immigrants from Ethiopia during the recent uprising in Gondar.
Liz and Alan jump into the week's events and discuss the impact of the "Reasonableness Law" on the average Israeli. Alan mentions a poll that stated 28% of Israelis are thinking of leaving the country. Alan, referenced his own experience in the 80s of having to pay an exit tax when he left the country. The exit tax was supposed to be a deterrent from leaving the country.
Alan also thanked Liz for referencing another podcast Unholy: Two Jews on the News. it is worth listening too after you listen to Israel ReBound.
Liz wished everyone Happy Tu'Bav with a photo
We have been off for a few weeks and it was good to get back to discussing the current situation in Israel. We recorded this prior to the vote in the Knesset on Monday. Liz mentioned another podcast that she recommends Unholy: two Jews on the News. They interviewed Thomas Friedman after his visit with US President Joe Biden and his message to PM Netanyahu.
In this episode Alan asks Liz about her thoughts on the military operation in Jenin. She gives a good overview from her perspective. Liz also shares a little about how the 4th of July is or isn't observed in Israel. Alan jumps in about Israel having a team of riders at the Tour d'France and how that came to be. He then tells Liz about Israel playing in the LaCrosse world championships. This is a great episode.
Liz and Alan try to stay away from current events this week with a look at how Israeli athletes did at the Special Olympics in Berlin. Discussion of transportation from a two new train stations in Jerusalem--one on the site of the original one now called first station--don't rush to use it. It won't be ready until 2031. Also look for double decker tourist busses to take you around Jerusalem. Enjoy
In this episode Liz and Alan discuss books. Liz went to the Jerusalem Book festival and reports back on that experience as well as breaks down the state of publishing in Israel. Here is a link to the National Library of Israel Annual Book publishing Report
In this exciting episode Alan updates Liz on the soccer match between Israel and South Korea. The match was going on while they were recording. Israel ended up winning 3-1 for third place in the World Cup U-20. Liz went out on the town to listen to music. Liz tired to explain to Alan the situation of violence in Arab communities. and of course they discussed current issues with the judicial reform debate.
This episode is filled with challenging and exciting information. We mourn the loss of three soldiers who were murdered on the border with Egypt. Celebrate the Under 20 soccer victory and take a look at the difference Pride Parades in Jerusalem are.
This is a fun episode. Liz and Alan took a week off from the podcast and when they came back there was so much to talk about. The national budget for Israel filled with interesting things, Alan shared the newly released strategy on combating Antisemitism that the White House announced (see the link below). Liz shared the difference between no bake Israeli cheesecake with American baked cheesecake. Enjoy
https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/U.S.-National-Strategy-to-Counter-Antisemitism.pdf
In this episode Liz and Alan cover a lot of ground following the over 1400 rockets that were launched from Gaza towards Israel and the Egyptian brokered ceasefire, the municipal budgets and strikes and we topped it off with celebrating Israel's 3rd place in the Eurovision competition behind Sweden and Finland. How amazing that Israel can have a ceasefire brokered by Egypt and come in 3rd place in one of the largest music competition in the world in the same week.
In this episode Liz and Alan discuss current issues after Israel resumes activities after the long holiday break. Israel's budget is on a deadline to be passed if it doesn't pass what happens next? Update on Israel at the Eurovision competition in Liverpool. Liz and Alan celebrate the coincidence of producing 75 episodes the week Israel celebrates 75 years of Independence.
With a little change in our conversations Liz asks Alan about his week in Israel experiencing the rally in Tel Aviv. They share experiences of the Yom Hazikaron sirens and what will they be doing on Yom Haatzmaut--Israel's 75th year of independence. Enjoy!
Liz and Alan for go discussing the current demonstrations and discuss the impact that the upcoming Yoms have on Israeli society. This year marks Israel's 75th year of independence. Celebrations should be very exciting.
In this exciting episode Liz shares the good and bad of what is available to eat during Passover and things people do during the holiday break. Enjoy
In this episode Liz and Alan discuss the announcement of the "pause" and what will happen between now and when they resume. Alan asks Liz if she has seen anything new for Passover--how about a kosher for Passover cupcake.
This episode was recorded prior to the decision to put a hold on the legislative process. More updates next week.
In this episode Liz describes for Alan and the listeners how the demonstrations have changed from week to week. The involvement of Police and counter protesters.
In this episode Alan asks questions to Liz about how the demonstrations she has been attending have changed over the weeks. Liz describes the crowd and the atmosphere of the demonstration in Jerusalem. Liz ends her remarks sharing a little about Purim and the connections with the demonstrations.
In this episode Liz shares her impressions about the demonstration in Jerusalem. She even shares a Purim connections.
In this episode Alan asks Liz to help explain the way Basic Laws are created and why there are protests around the Judicial Reform proposals. Liz also talks Hamantaschen.
Enjoy
In this episode Alan asks Liz about Israel's response to the earthquake in Turkey and Syria. Did she feel it in Jerusalem? Liz also describes the different Israel relief groups that went to Turkey to help in many different ways. She also discussed how the organization she works for responds to world disasters.
Just a quick note, this was recorded before the earthquake in Turkey and Syria.
In this episode Liz and Alan look at when, how and why Israelis come out and demonstrate issues: Political or otherwise. Liz, as she is able describes the latest trends in foods for Tu Bishvat.
In this episode Liz and Alan continue the discussion around Judicial Reform, the decision to remove Aryeh Deri from his role in the government. What is Medical Clowning and why is it popular in Israel? Check out the article in Israel21 C
In this episode Alan asks Liz to discuss the new government's policies and how lunch and dinner table conversations are taking shape. Also, who will be representing Israel in the upcoming Eurovision contest. Check out the link below
2003 Eurovision
This episode Alan asks Liz to explain the pros and cons of the proposal by the new coalition to reform the Judiciary. It is complicated and Liz does a great job at explaining it. Alan mentioned that Israel was recently ranked as one of the top countries in innovation at the recent CES conference. Liz and Alan both use this news to address the disparity with the US News and World Report rankings of best countries where Israel did not rank very high in Entrepreneurship.
Enjoy!
In this episode Alan asks Liz for her thoughts on how the new members of PM Netanyahu's cabinet will use their influence and will the PM have control over them. Alan introduces a new ranking of countries by US News and World Report and why Israel is only ranked 37th. Take a look at the report in the link below.
US News and World Report Ranking
This episode starts off with recapping several Hanukkah observations on Liz's part especially how her apartment building celebrates Hanukkah. Then Alan and Liz take a deep dive into the strategic moves Prime Minister designate Netanyahu is making to secure his new government--what positions are his Likud members going to end up with.
Liz and Alan continue to breakdown the evolution of the coalition in formation and if and when the new government will be sworn in. Liz introduces Alan to new trends in sufganiyot--stuff it full of sweet things like a falafel in a pita. Enjoy!
Liz and Alan continue to monitor and discuss the current issues of building the next government for Israel. Also, Liz explores a recipe for making sufganiyot at home. Let's see how they turn out.
In this episode Liz and Alan discuss the need for the extension of two weeks to form the next government ands the impact it might have on Diaspora Jewish Leaders.
In this episode Liz gives an update on the status of the coalition in forming the new government. Liz explains the role of the speaker of the Knesset. Alan asks Liz how the recent wave of antisemitism in America is being discussed in Israel.
Check out Roladin's Chanukah 2022 display of sufganiot. Enjoy!
Alan confesses to Liz that he thought the formation of the coalition would go smoothly and quickly--Liz said, "this is Israel, that's why they get 30 days to form a government."
Liz also shared a link from the Hartman Institute: Why is Ben Gvir so popular
In this episode Liz and Alan breakdown the election and explore the options for forming the next government of Israel. Liz takes a deep dive into what the leaders of the next coalition need to do to build the government.
In this episode Liz walks us through how one votes in the fifth election. Which card will you drop in the box?
Link to Times of Israel's guide on the 39 parties.
In this episode Liz describes activities and other interesting things that people do on Yom Kippur and Sukkot. She also discusses scorpions.
In this episode Liz continues to educate Alan on the political parties and who is in and who is out--interesting legal challenges before the Central Election Agency (Alan didn't know Israel had one). Alan does being up Israel's advancement in AgTech with an interesting article about fruit. You can read more about that in the Times of Israel article link below.
Black Apricots
In this episode Alan being back in the US Liz and Alan discuss what it feels like in Israel as the High Holy Days approach. What takes place in Israel with all those days off. Also, Liz and Alan check in on the elections and party development. Shana Tova and enjoy!
In this episode for the first time since COVID Liz and Alan are talking face to face from cafe Silo in Jerusalem. They are discussing everything from Kashrut to parking lots.
Here is a link to one of their topics: Tzohar
In this episode Liz shares insights on her recent trip to the States. Her first time back since COVID--What has changed? Alan asks Liz about the pending teachers' strike and what kind of effect it will have on kids and families. Since this is election season they will discuss how the political parties are taking shape.
In this episode Liz discusses her Tisha B'av experience and observations over looking the old city of Jerusalem. Liz and Alan break down the current findings of the recent conflict between with the PIJ. They close the conversation on a lighter note discussing the observance of Tu B'av often called Valentine's Day in Israel. Enjoy!
In this episode Liz explains that political parties are forming their leadership roles. Each party optimistically prepares their list of 120 people hoping that the party receives all seats in the next election--this has never happened before but it is part of the process. In short, there are 120 seats in the Knesset with multiple parties campaigning to control the government with at least a 61 seat majority.
In this exciting episode Liz shares her observations of the logistics of the President of the United States traveling the streets of Jerusalem. Alan shares a little about the topics addressed with the visit (see the link below). They both enthusiastically discuss the impact the Maccabiah Games are having in Israel and the world.
The Jerusalem US-Israel Strategic Partnership Joint Declaration
21st Maccabiah Games
In this episode Liz talks about the preparations in advance of President Biden's visit to Israel this week. Also, Alan is excited about the kick off of the 21st Maccabiah Games in Israel with over 10,000 Athletes participating from over 80 countries. check out the link below.
https://www.maccabiah.com/en/
In this episode Liz and Alan breakdown the workings of the Knesset to be able to dissolve the government, determine who the interim prime minster will be, and when the next elections should be held. All very interesting. In addition, with summer starting what kind of out door activities will people be doing--Liz and Alan celebrate Israel's amazing hiking trails and Alan shares a little about the Pacific Crest Trail. Check out the links below.
Alan also asked Liz what her thoughts were on the recent ruling by the US Supreme Court on overturning Roe v. Wade.
Pacific Crest Trail
Hiking trails in Israel
Enjoy
After taking a couple of weeks off Liz and Alan meet up again to welcome in the latest in Israel's parliamentary experiments. No surprises here. Enjoy!
In this episode Liz and Alan discuss the recent Jerusalem day activities and look back on the origin of it. They also discuss the challenges of the current government and discuss cheesecake recipes for Shavuot.
In this episode Liz and Alan discuss the plans for the upcoming opportunity for Jerusalem to install a cable car system and how the judicial system became involved. Check out the links to the story about the cable car plans as well as an overview of how the Justice system operates in Israel. Alan also shares a look back at a Jerusalem day event when the high wire artist Philippe Pettit walked across the valley from the Jerusalem Cinematheque to the Old City.
High Wire over Jerusalem Phillipe Petit
Cable Cars in Jerusalem
Israel's Justice System
Liz and Alan discuss the Knesset coming back in session what challenges to expect. Also, forgive them again for technical issues.
In this episode we experienced a little technical issue and our recording got cut off before we finished. Liz asked Alan about his recent trip to Cuba and then they discussed the transition from the somber to the celebratory.
Liz and Alan pick up where they left off last time discussing new trends around Passover food and activities in Israel and the desire for more in the Diaspora. Liz shared a new series that she found on Youtube called Recipe for Change. This series explores hate issues in the Jewish and Asian American Pacific Islander communities. Here is a link to it. Recipe for Change
In this episode Liz and Alan discuss current events is Israel and Liz gives an overview of how one shops for Passover in Israel.
In this episode Liz and Alan discuss Israel's identity in the world today plus a look at the Negav Summit
In this episode Liz and Alan provide an update on the situation in Ukraine and how Israel is providing relief and other things. Alan introduces the UN's recently released Happiness Index declaring Israel is the 9th Happiest country out of 150. Israel moved up from 12th place last year. Here is a link to the full report. Happiness Report 2022 Enjoy.
In this episode Liz and Alan discuss the current situation in Ukraine and the ways Jewish organizations are trying to help. Liz also shares her recent visit to the Peres Center for Peace and Innovation. https://www.peres-center.org/en/
In this episode Liz and Alan discuss the pros and cons of each of the Times of Israel videos about the struggles of the neighborhoods in Jerusalem. If you haven't watched the three short videos please do and let us know what you think.
Liz and Alan stay on the theme of using TV and Film exploring diverse communities in Israel. In this episode they introduce Times of Israel's series on Jerusalem: The secular struggle. Alan also gave a little update on the olympics and a brief overview on the Super Bowl. Enjoy!
In this episode Liz shares some research on the impact that TV and film can have on social change. Check out the research links below. Alan shares a recent Times of Israel story about Netflix reaching out to the film and TV community in Jerusalem.
Research from the Jewish People Policy Institute and an article about it in Israel Hayom
Netflix link
Liz and Alan go deeper in the discussion on whether or not TV in Israel can have a positive effect on social change in Israel. Liz also shares a little about the recent snow fall in Jerusalem.
Here is the link to the show Arab Labor we discussed in the podcast.
Also a link to the plot in wikipedia that you might find helpful. Plot review
Enjoy!
In this episode Liz and Alan discuss the success and growth of TV and Film in Israel and will it have an impact on teaching about the complicated daily social issues. Looking back on how TV shows like All in the Family and the Jeffersons explored how Americans looked at each other. Can these new shows in Israel do the same?
Here are a few examples of shows coming out of Israel that examines these core issues
Near/Far
Nebso
Let us know what you think.
First of all I apologize for the audio quality--I was not using my normal set up.
Following last week's bill in the Knesset allowing electricity hook up in villages where electricity wasn't allowed because the properties lacked proper permits. Liz and Alan discuss how basic utility needs are met in Israel and in the US.
Here is a link to the Knesset Press Release about the bill.
And a Times of Israel review of the debate in the Knesset that got out of control.
In this week's episode Alan asks Liz to discuss what Xmas looks like this year in Israel and what is the origin of calling New Year's Eve Sylvester in Israel. Enjoy.
In this episode Liz and Alan discuss current issues and long standing issues around religious pluralism in Israel and how the current coalition attempts to address it. The egalitarian section of the Kotel and the movement of the Women of the Wall are front and center to this debate. Check out the Women of the Wall and the work of Minister of Religious Affairs, Matan Kahane.
In this episode Liz and Alan discuss the swimsuit portion of the Miss Universe contest and the unique fact that it is taking place in Israel during the pandemic. Liz entices us with a sneak peak at the soup festival plus a look at current events in Israel around the shelving of the Western Wall egalitarian plans.
In this episode Liz and Alan discuss the similarities and differences in the ways we celebrate Hanukkah in America and Israel--enjoy.
During Holidays and Shabbat the dinner table becomes a center of discussion and debate. Liz and Alan try to address the opportunities that exist for listening to differing opinions on topics.
In this episode Liz and Alan discuss Israel's newly passed budget and then they jump into an analysis of the latest trends in Sufganiot--donuts. Check out the guide from one of Israel's bakeries: Roladin.
Liz and Alan discuss current voices in the on-going challenges of Jewish Identity and Israel. More and more opinions and strategies are showing up to address this complicated narrative.
Liz and Alan explore narratives about being Jewish and supportive of Israel.
Check out Hen Mazzig
Liz and Alan digest President Herzog's talk at the Jewish Federations of North American's General Assembly last week. His tone was very strong that the two communities need each other and that we should work on our relationships. Both Liz and Alan were energized by his talk. Here is a link to it his presentation comes towards the end at about 1:13. But watch all of the video.
Liz also share a documentary by an Israeli film maker about Jewish life in America that aired on Israeli TV here is a link to that as well.
Liz and Alan start a greater conversation about what was and what wasn't said during the recent speeches at the UN.
Check out UN Watch Hillel Neuer's speech
I had Liz take pictures of the different Sukkas in Jerusalem but I not able to post them here so here is a link I found of an art gallery that has photos of unique Sukkas from around the world.
In this episode Liz and Alan reach out to longtime friend Shiri Phillips and ask her questions about growing up connected to the two worlds of Israel and America. Hope you enjoy the conversation as much as we did.
Liz and Alan discuss with Sharon why Israel is important to her and her connection to Israel today.
Such a great conversation with former Omahan Dan Bleicher that we had to break it up into 2 episodes. We think you will enjoy both epsiodes and we will probably bring him back for another interview. He has been in Israel since 1973. I hope you enjoy it.
Liz also talks about Israel advocacy and references a documentary check the link for the film.
In this episode Liz and Alan explore personal stories of where connections between Nebraska and Israel have impacted them.
Liz and Alan review the success Israel had at the Olympics and dive into the situation that challenges civil marriages in Israel.
Times of Israel's David Horovitz op-ed on the subject supporting the right of Artem Dolgopyat to get married in Israel.
Explore how other Jewish Athletes did in the Olympics.
In this episode Liz and Alan invited former Nebraskan Nancy Coren to share her journey to Israel. Nancy and her husband made Aliyah from Lincoln, Nebraska during the pandemic. She walked us through the process and challenges of fulfilling the dream of moving to Israel.
Here are a few links that might help others who might be interested in doing the same.
Nefesh B'Nefesh
How to learn Hebrew
Tune in next week as Liz and Alan will recap the Olympics and update on issues in Israel.
Thank you for listening.
In this episode Liz and Alan follow up more on the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and the chances for Israelis and Jewish athletes from around the globe to achieve their dreams.
And the memory of the 11 Israeli athletes murdered in Munich at the 1972 Olympics
When we spoke Israeli 19 year-old Avishleg Semberg won Israel's first medal of the games a bronze in taekwondo. I can't wait to watch baseball.
So many exciting moments in the Olympics and several close calls 17-year-old Anastasia Gorbenko in the finals for swimming and Omer Shapira on the bike.
The Times of Israel also reported on how Palestinians competing.
We also talked about Ice Cream and boycotts check out this great pieces by Daniel Gordis
Tune in again next week as we will talk more about the Olympics and we will have a guest on the show too.
Alan and Liz took the week off and came back together to debrief and discuss current events that took place in Israel. They focused on the status of the coalition the opposition and a few missteps in the Knesset. Alan shared the story of the first deaf member of Knesset making her maiden speech through sign language. This led to a greater conversation about the inclusiveness of the Knesset.
Links:
MK Shirley Pinto Kadosh
New study on Jewish attitudes
Liz and Alan take a different approach to discussing current events in Israel. Liz revealed the new name for the Lower Galilee. They discuss summer food festivals in Jerusalem and Alan introduces the World Happiness Index.
Here are links to some of the issues discussed.
The World Happiness Index
Jewish Athletes to watch at the Olympics
Name Change of the Lower Galilee
With politics in Israel on a some what calmer path Liz and Alan decide to talk about other things of interest like baseball, a regional vote to change the name of the Lower Galilee, and the upcoming Olympics in Tokyo.
Liz and Alan have a heartfelt conversation with former Omaha Bob Goldberg on his recent visit to Israel showing solidarity with Israel after the conflict with Hamas.
Liz and Alan debrief the Knesset's ratifying the 36th Government of Israel and the new Prime Minister Naftali Bennett and how the the unity coalition came together. Will it last?
This is our first episode of our new podcast by starting with a look at the way a coalition is formed. We break down the parties and the ideologies and hope for the best. We discuss who is in and who isn't and will it hold.