Advertise on podcast: On The DL with Dana Levenson

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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