In a recent episode of the Secured podcast, host Mike Matranga welcomed Izzy Fried, CEO of Fox2Sierra, for an insightful conversation about service, resilience, and the power of community. The episode highlighted Fried's remarkable journey from New York City to the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) and his experiences that shaped his commitment to public service.
Fried, who grew up in New York City, shared stories of his youth, inspired by his grandfather's World War II service. At seventeen, driven by a sense of purpose and adventure, he bought a one-way ticket to Israel. Despite knowing little about the country or its language, Fried enrolled in Rockland Community College's Jerusalem campus and eventually volunteered for the IDF. His experiences in the IDF, where he served during the early 1990s, taught him resilience and the importance of community.
One of the standout moments in the episode was the introduction of Scout, Fried's support dog. Scout, trained by former Army Ranger Julian Trent McDonald, exemplifies the deep bond between handler and canine, a relationship rooted in trust and mutual support.
The discussion also touched on the recent events in Israel, particularly the tragic events of October 7th. Fried offered his perspective on why global empathy seemed lacking, attributing it to a societal shift initiated by the COVID-19 pandemic and the George Floyd incident. He emphasized that the constant flow of information through electronic devices has replaced personal, empathetic communication, leading to desensitization.
Matranga and Fried delved into the importance of face-to-face interactions and civil discourse in fostering empathy. They stressed that meaningful conversations and understanding different perspectives are crucial in today’s digital age.
Fried's journey from a rambunctious teenager to a committed public servant underscores the transformative power of service and resilience. His story is a testament to the enduring importance of community and the human connection in an increasingly digital world.
Stay tuned for more insightful conversations on the Secured podcast, where stories of service and resilience continue to inspire.
