Advertise on podcast: The Israel Connection

Send us a text In this episode, Esti Zenati sits down with social impact leader, Dana Cwaigrach. From her roots in Tel Aviv to her high-level work at the Peres Center for Peace and the Ramon Foundation, Dana has spent her career driving change. Following the October 7 attacks, Dana co-founded the U.S. branch of the Hostages and Missing Families Forum. She joins us to discuss the emotional weight of working with hostage families, navigating global advocacy amidst intense protests, and how she maintains a deep connection to Israel from New York. Tune in for a raw look at leadership, diplomacy, and the fight for human rights in a time of crisis. *Note: This episode was recorded prior to the recovery of Ran Gvili's remains in Gaza. 

Send us a text Celebrated Broadway star and activist, Ari Axelrod joins Esti Zenati to explore the intersection of the arts, activism, and Jewish identity. From his upbringing in Michigan to navigating antisemitism on college campus and later in the theater world, Ari shares how his trips to Israel transformed his sense of self and Jewish identity. We dive into the creation of his acclaimed show, A Place for Us, the Jewish roots of Broadway, and his response to the rise in antisemitism post-October 7th. Stick around for a special surprise at the end of the episode!

Send us a text What does it take to lead a congregation for over 25 years? Rabbi Steven Schwartz joins Esti Zenati to reflect on his tenure at Beth El Congregation of Baltimore as he prepares for his next chapter in semi-retirement. From his childhood inspirations in upstate New York to his first transformative trip to Israel, Rabbi Schwartz explores the experiences that shaped his commitment to the Jewish diaspora. They dive into the challenges of the current moment, the resilience of community, and—in a delightful twist—how a love for The Grateful Dead has accompanied him through it all. 

Send us a text When the world shifted on October 7th, Shai Davidai—a social psychologist and former Columbia Business School assistant professor —refused to stay silent. In this episode, Shai joins Esti Zenati to share his journey from a 1980s Israeli childhood to the frontlines of campus advocacy. We dive deep into Shai’s transition from the classroom to full-time activism, his fierce public battle against antisemitism at Columbia, and his mission to mobilize a new generation of Jewish leaders. From the launch of his podcast Here I Am to building an activist core in NYC, Shai delivers a powerful message on why Jewish visibility and solidarity are our greatest strengths.

Send us a text In this episode, Esti Zenati is joined by Liz Hirsh Naftali, author and advocate, whose great-niece, 3-year-old Abigail Mor Idan was kidnapped by Hamas on October 7, 2023, after her parents were murdered. Liz details the tragic events, her transformation into a global advocate and her efforts during the past two years to secure the release of hostages. She discusses the impact on her family, the broader community, and the ongoing fight against anti-Semitism. Her book, Saving Abigail, serves as a memoir and call to action for truth and resilience.

Send us a text In this episode, Esti Zenati interviews Eitan Chitayat, a global creative leader and brand builder known for his advocacy for Israel and the Jewish people. They discuss the origin of Eitan's viral movement I'm That Jew, which started as a reaction to the 2014 Charlie Hebdo attack in Paris and grew into a global Jewish advocacy movement. They delve into how the video, seen by millions worldwide, sparked a narrative focused on Jewish pride and self-identity. Chitayat also talks about the impact of the October 7th attack on his work and the Jewish community, stressing the importance of proactive narrative building and bridging gaps within Jewish communities worldwide. He highlights the need for Jewish storytelling and the role of parents in instilling Jewish identity in their children, while also addressing the challenges of countering antisemitism and false narratives.

Send us a text Join Esti Zenati for a delicious conversation with Yossef Shavi and his daughter Alona Shavi-Tajer, the family behind the local Yossef's Laffa-Milia kosher Israeli food truck. Learn the heartwarming story of how Yossef started the truck, the meaning of its unique name, and what makes their customer service exceptional. Yossef discusses Israeli cuisine as a "melting pot," their dynamic menu, and authentic spices. Hear how the family relies on community support to address anti-Semitic incidents. It’s a dive into food, family, and resilience!

Send us a text In this episode, Esti Zenati is joined by former IDF Lieutenant Colonel & International Spokesperson, Jonathan Conricus, who joins us to dissect the global media landscape after 24 years of service. Drawing on his dual Israeli-Swedish background, Conricus offers a sharp critique of UN and humanitarian organizations, highlighting issues of corruption and media bias against Israel. He stresses the need for improving media strategy by leveraging intelligence and discusses the evolving challenges faced by Jewish communities globally. A must-listen for insights on public diplomacy and regional stability. 

Send us a text In this episode, Esti Zenati is joined by Adeena Sussman, a New York Times bestselling author known for her Israeli cookbooks. Adeena shares her journey from working in television to becoming a renowned food writer, her creative process for writing cookbooks, and the impact of living near Tel Aviv's Carmel market on her culinary inspirations. She discusses the balance between authenticity and accessibility in Israeli recipes and the importance of family traditions in her cooking. Adeena also talks about her new book, 'Zariz,' which features simple, flavorful recipes written during challenging times, and shares insight into her favorite Jewish and Israeli cookbook authors.

Send us a text In this episode, Esti Zenati is joined by Cantor Emily Ellentuck, Director of the Berman-Lipavsky Religious School at Beth El Congregation of Baltimore and Rina Liebeskind, Education Director at Kol Ami Synagogue of Tucson, AZ. They talk about creating engaging learning experiences, fostering a love for Judaism and Israel, and addressing challenges like antisemitism. They emphasize age-appropriate Israel education and the significance of firsthand experiences. The discussion also covers supporting Jewish teens in maintaining their identity and pride in today's climate. 

Send us a text Esti Zenati is joined by Rabbi Dana Saroken, Jill Suffel, Ben Kreshtool and Amanda Beitman for this celebratory special episode in honor of the release of the last 20 living hostages from Gaza and 4 of the 28 deceased hostages. 

Send us a text Join Esti Zenati for an inspiring chat with Jay Shofet of the Society for the Protection of Nature in Israel (SPNI), the nation's oldest and largest environmental NGO. Jay reveals how SPNI has protected Israel's biodiversity since 1953, embedding a love for nature through science and education. Hear about the vital "Nature Heals" program, which uses Israel's green spaces to aid trauma recovery post-October 7, alongside crucial efforts to rewild wetlands and tackle climate change. Discover SPNI's vision for a greener, healthier Israel with accessible nature for all. 

Send us a text In this episode, Esti is joined by Na'ama Ore, the CEO of SparkIL, a social FinTech startup providing crowdfunded, interest-free loans to small Israeli businesses. The episode highlights the impact of SparkIL, in particular, emergency loan funds for businesses owned by IDF reservists and others hugely affected by the October 7 attacks and the ongoing war, and the role of mentors and support networks in helping business owners. Nama also shares personal anecdotes, such as her children serving in the IDF and how her work at SparkIL gives her hope and purpose.

Send us a text Esti Zenati is joined by journalist, Jotam Confino for an unfiltered conversation on The Israel Connection to break down media bias, journalistic integrity, and the complexities of covering Israel and Gaza for a European audience. From the fallout of October 7th to the failures of international reporting, Jotam offers sharp insights, personal stories, and bold critiques—plus a fun look at his favorite Israeli quirks. 

Send us a text In the Season 3 premiere of the Israel Connection, Esti Zenati interviews Israeli comedian, Shahar Cohen. They talked about Shahar's rise to fame with his 'America vs. Israel' videos, his popular characters like 'Nofar,' and the impact of social media on his career. He also shares insights into his U.S. tour and his mission to unite people through humor. Shahar is currently touring in the US. Get tickets here.