Shows
The Israel ConnectionThe Israel Connection: Unfiltered Defense - Abraham HamraSend a textIn this episode of The Israel Connection, Esti Zenati sits down with Abraham Hamra—a Syrian Jewish ex-refugee turned powerhouse attorney and digital advocate. From the hushed, dangerous escape from Damascus in the early 90s to the high-stakes courtrooms of New York, Abraham shares a journey defined by resilience.Fluent in Hebrew, Arabic, and English, Abraham leverages his unique cultural vantage point to dismantle antisemitism and defend Jewish identity on the global stage. Tune in as he discusses the scars of growing up under oppression, the seismic shift in Jewish un...
2026-02-161h 19
The Israel ConnectionThe Israel Connection: Advocacy in Crisis - Dana CwaigrachSend us a textIn 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...
2026-02-0532 min
The Israel ConnectionThe Israel Connection: Finding a Place for Us - Ari AxelrodSend us a textCelebrated 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...
2026-01-261h 04
The Israel ConnectionThe Israel Connection: Rabbi Steven SchwartzSend us a textWhat 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 thro...
2026-01-1539 min
The Israel ConnectionThe Israel Connection: Shai Davidai - The Fight for Jewish SafetySend us a textWhen 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...
2026-01-0551 min
The Israel ConnectionThe Israel Connection: Saving Abigail - Liz Hirsh NaftaliSend us a textIn 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.
2025-12-1744 min
The Israel ConnectionThe Israel Connection: #ImThatJew - Eitan ChitayatSend us a textIn 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...
2025-12-0754 min
The Israel ConnectionThe Israel Connection: The Best Israeli Food - Yossef's Laffa-MiliaSend us a textJoin 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!
2025-11-2637 min
The Israel ConnectionThe Israel Connection: Jonathan Conricus - Former IDF International SpokespersonSend us a textIn 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.
2025-11-1738 min
The Israel ConnectionThe Israel Connection: Adeena SussmanSend us a textIn 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...
2025-11-0726 min
The Israel ConnectionThe Israel Connection: Jewish Education - Cantor Emily Ellentuck and Rina LiebeskindSend a textIn 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.
2025-10-2745 min
The Israel ConnectionThe Israel Connection: They're Home!Send us a textEsti 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.
2025-10-1331 min
The Israel ConnectionThe Israel Connection: Jay Shofet - Protecting Israel's NatureSend us a textJoin 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.
2025-09-2939 min
The Israel ConnectionThe Israel Connection: Jotam ConfinoSend a textEsti 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.
2025-09-0850 min
The Israel ConnectionThe Israel Connection: My Life - Shahar CohenSend a textIn 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.
2025-08-2826 min
The Israel ConnectionThe Israel Connection: Israel vs. IranSend a textIn this special episode, Esti Zenati sits down with Ben Kreshtool and Jill Suffel from Beth El to unpack the rapidly evolving war between Israel and Iran. They explore the surprising alliances forming in the Middle East, what this conflict means for Israel’s future, and offer practical advice—and words of comfort—for tourists currently stuck in Israel who may be feeling anxious or unsafe.Whether you're looking for clarity, connection, or just a space to process everything that's happening, this conversation is for you.Have any questions about the cu...
2025-06-1831 min
The Israel ConnectionThe Israel Connection: Israeli Ambassador - Dr. Yechiel LeiterSend a text In this episode, Esti Zenati interviews Dr. Yechiel Leiter, the 21st Israeli Ambassador to the United States. Ambassador Leiter reflects on his return to public service after the tragic loss of his son, Major Moshe Leiter, who was killed leading IDF forces into Gaza on November 10, 2023. He outlines his key goals as ambassador, including defending Israel’s legitimacy during a seven-front war, strengthening bipartisan U.S. support, and uniting the diverse American Jewish community. The conversation also touches on the May 21st shooting of two Israeli diplomats, Sarah Milgrim and Yaron Lischinsky, and the fol...
2025-06-1139 min
The Israel ConnectionThe Israel Connection: I Survived the Nova Festival Attack - Mazal TazazoSend a textIn this episode of the Israel Connection, Esti Zenati interviews Mazal Tazazo, a survivor of the brutal terrorist attacks at the Nova Festival on October 7, 2023. Mazal, a 35-year-old mother from Southern Israel, recounts her life before the incident, the harrowing details of the attack, and how she survived while losing her two close friends. She shares her journey towards healing and resilience, driven by the need to provide a better future for her son and tells all about the dear friends she lost and what they meant for her. Mazal also discusses her efforts...
2025-05-2832 min
The Israel ConnectionThe Israel Connection: Matan Peretz - Influencing through ComedySend a textEsti Zenati interviews Israeli stand-up comedian, content creator and IDF reservist, Matan Peretz. They discuss Matan's comedy journey, the therapeutic role of comedy - particularly during the war, and his rise to global recognition. Matan also shares insights from his recent visit to concentration camps in Poland, his thoughts on Joe Rogan's comments on Israel and his plans for future performances in the U.S.
2025-05-1841 min
The Israel ConnectionThe Israel Connection: Rabbi Dana Saroken, Back by Popular Demand!Send a textIn this episode of the Israel Connection, Esti Zenati revisits with Rabbi Dana Saroken, Beth El's own rabbi and founder of the Soul Center. They explore her inspiring journey from aspiring doctor to spiritual leader, discuss her efforts to connect Israel and America, and the importance of making Judaism relevant for all ages. They also delve into the power of storytelling in Jewish identity and the challenges faced by Jewish students on college campuses.
2025-05-0857 min
The Israel ConnectionThe Israel Connection: Erin MolanSend a textEsti Zenati sits down with a very special guest, Erin Molan—renowned Australian TV and radio presenter, and former host of the prime-time show Erin on Sky News. Widely recognized for her unwavering support of Israel and the Jewish community, Erin shares the story behind her viral monologue that not only captured global attention but deeply moved hearts in Israel. She opens up about life after Sky News, her steadfast commitment to standing with Israel and the Jewish people, and her resolve to remain on the right side of history. Erin also offers a pe...
2025-04-2844 min
The Israel ConnectionThe Israel Connection: Israel's Story with Guy Flavian and Iris HillelSend a textEsti Zenati is joined by two special guests straight from Israel: Guy Flavian and Iris Hillel, co-heads of the Israel's Story initiative. Israel's Story was a hasbara project launched immediately after the October 7 attacks, rapidly growing to involve over 200 volunteers and spreading across social media platforms in multiple languages. The initiative’s goal was to advocate for Israel and promote its perspective during a particularly turbulent time. In this conversation, Guy and Iris share their experiences within the world of hasbara, offering insights into the challenges they faced while managing such an urgent and hi...
2025-04-0938 min
The Israel ConnectionThe Israel Connection: Yuval DavidSend a textEsti Zenati speaks with Yuval David, an Emmy-winning Israeli-American journalist, actor, and LGBT activist. They discuss Yuval’s advocacy for Israel, the Jewish community, and LGBT rights, as well as his role in promoting Jewish representation in media. The conversation explores his experiences in the entertainment industry as a Jewish Israeli-American, particularly after the events of October 7, 2023, and the impact on perceptions of Israel.
2025-03-3051 min
The Israel ConnectionThe Israel Connection: Elkana CohenSend a textEsti Zenati is joined by guest, Elkana Cohen, author of the book OCT 7: The War Against Hamas Through the Eyes of an Israeli Commando Officer, which is based on Elkana's diary entries during the war in Gaza. Esti and Elkana talk about his personal experience of what it's like serving in the IDF since October 7, 2023 and being on the battlefield in Northern Gaza for over a year, experiencing major losses of close friends and becoming a father for the first time. Elkana's book mentioned above is available for p...
2025-03-2036 min
The Israel ConnectionThe Israel Connection: AJ EdelmanSend a textEsti Zenati is joined by Israeli-American Winter Olympian AJ Edelman for an insightful conversation about his journey to Israel and his path to the Winter Olympics. AJ shares his experience making aliyah to Israel in 2016, his journey to the 2018 Winter Olympics, and his preparations for the 2026 Winter Olympics with his Bobsled team, BobTeam Edelman. The discussion also delves into AJ's advocacy for Israel over the past year and a half, highlighting the personal and professional impact his advocacy has had on his life and career. To support BobTeam Edelman and learn more...
2025-03-1036 min
The Israel ConnectionThe Israel Connection: Moran Stela YanaiSend a textEsti Zenati is joined by special guest, Moran Stela Yanai. Moran was held hostage by Hamas for 54 days, after being kidnapped from the Nova Music Festival on October 7, 2023, and released on November 29, 2023, during the first hostage release deal. They talk about Moran's October 7, her experience in captivity and her hopes and dreams for the near future, for herself and for the remaining hostages.
2025-02-2741 min
The Israel ConnectionThe Israel Connection: Ran Bar-YoshafatSend a text Esti Zenati hosts attorney Ran Bar-Yoshafat, who also serves in the IDF reserves as a combat Special Forces soldier. Ran shares his experience fighting in Gaza, Northern Israel, and Judea & Samaria since October 7, 2023, all while balancing life as a newlywed and a first-time father, having spent over 250 days on the battlefield. They also discuss Ran's role as a speaker on US college campuses, focusing on his experience at UC Berkeley, where rioters interrupted and shut down his event.
2025-02-1142 min
The Israel ConnectionThe Israel Connection: Here's Modi!Send a textEsti Zenati is joined by guest co-host, Ben Kreshtool, and special guest, comedian Modi Rosenfeld! They talk about Modi's career in comedy, his favorite places to perform in Israel and his current US tour, Pause for Laughter.Modi will be performing in Baltimore at The Lyric on Sunday, March 2. Get your tickets at modilive.com.
2025-01-2829 min
The Israel ConnectionThe Israel Connection: Hen MazzigSend a textEsti is joined by Hen Mazzig, a globally recognized speaker, educator, author, and digital influencer who has become a trusted voice on Jewish issues and Israel, appearing as an expert in media across four continents, including outlets like BBC, CNN, The Washington Post, SkyNews, New York Times and more. They talk about Hen's personal experience advocating for Israel for many years and being one of the most known voices in the pro-Israeli world, Mizrachi & Sephardi Jewry and growing up in Israel.
2025-01-0736 min
The Israel ConnectionThe Israel Connection: Dalia ZiadaSend a textEsti Zenati is joined by Dalia Ziada, Egyptian award-winning writer and political analyst specializing in governance, geopolitics, and defense policy in the Middle East and the Eastern Mediterranean. They discuss Dalia's support for Israel and its fight against radical Islam, the Arab world's relationship with Israel, Dalia's partnership with Hillel International and more.
2024-10-2932 min
The Israel ConnectionThe Israel Connection: Jonah PlattSend a textEsti Zenati is joined by special guest, Jonah Platt. Jonah is an actor, artist, Jewish advocate for Israel and the Jewish people, and the host of his newly released podcast, Being Jewish with Jonah Platt. Jonah and Esti talk about being Jewish in today's climate, Hollywood's silence when it comes to Israel & the "ceasefire" letter debacle, and Jonah's new podcast and how it came to be.
2024-10-0130 min
The Beth El Podcast NetworkThe Israel Connection: Meet Blake FlaytonSend us a textEsti Zenati is joined by Jewish writer, activist and co-host of the We Should All Be Zionists podcast with Dr. Einat Wilf. They talk about Blake's activism experience and why he has chosen to be active in the fight against antisemitism, Zionism, his recent aliyah and more!
2024-09-0536 min
The Israel ConnectionThe Israel Connection: Meet Blake FlaytonSend a textSend us a textEsti Zenati is joined by Jewish writer, activist and co-host of the We Should All Be Zionists podcast with Dr. Einat Wilf. They talk about Blake's activism experience and why he has chosen to be active in the fight against antisemitism, Zionism, his recent aliyah and more!
2024-09-0536 min
The Beth El Podcast NetworkThe Israel Connection: Dr. Einat WilfSend us a textEsti Zenati is joined by a special guest, Dr. Einat Wilf. They discuss the importance of Zionism, the right path to peace in the Middle East, and her latest book, We Should All Be Zionists.
2024-08-0728 min
The Israel ConnectionThe Israel Connection: Dr. Einat WilfSend a textEsti Zenati is joined by a special guest, Dr. Einat Wilf. They discuss the importance of Zionism, the right path to peace in the Middle East, and her latest book, We Should All Be Zionists.
2024-08-0628 min
The Beth El Podcast NetworkThe Israel Connection - Idan TzameretSend us a textEsti Zenati and Ben Kreshtool talk to our special guest, Idan Tzameret, owner of Kitchen Design by Idan on Falls Rd in Baltimore and Beth El member, about the experience he had with antisemitism in early May, his life as an Israeli, including his years in the IDF, and the current war.
2024-05-2341 minThe Israel ConnectionThe Israel Connection: Idan TzameretSend a textEsti Zenati and Ben Kreshtool talk to our special guest, Idan Tzameret, owner of Kitchen Design by Idan on Falls Rd in Baltimore and Beth El member, about the experience he had with antisemitism in early May, his life as an Israeli, including his years in the IDF, and the current war.
2024-05-2341 minThe Israel ConnectionThe Israel Connection: Ongoing College Campuses in CrisisSend a textEsti Zenati and Ben Kreshtool discuss the ongoing antisemitism crisis on college campuses, the Israeli hostages and more.
2024-04-2526 min
The Beth El Podcast NetworkThe Israel Connection - Ongoing College Campuses in CrisisSend us a textEsti Zenati and Ben Kreshtool discuss the ongoing antisemitism crisis on college campuses, the Israeli hostages and more.
2024-04-2526 min
The Beth El Podcast NetworkThe Israel Connection - Dan RozettSend us a textEsti Zenati is joined by friend and past co-worker in Israel, Dan Rozett, Director of Community Relations & Israel Engagement at the Jewish Federation in the Heart of New Jersey. They talk about Dan's current experience at his job, his past as an IDF combat, and the alarming rise in antisemitism throughout the USA and the world.
2024-03-2728 minThe Israel ConnectionThe Israel Connection: Dan RozettSend a textEsti Zenati is joined by friend and past co-worker in Israel, Dan Rozett, Director of Community Relations & Israel Engagement at the Jewish Federation in the Heart of New Jersey. They talk about Dan's current experience at his job, his past as an IDF combat, and the alarming rise in antisemitism throughout the USA and the world.
2024-03-2728 min
The Beth El Podcast NetworkThe Israel Connection - Dr. Larry WeissSend us a textDr. Larry Weiss spent several months in Israel, serving as a medical volunteer with Magen David Adom. This week, Dr. Weiss joins Esti Zenati on The Israel Connection to discuss his experience.
2024-02-2218 minThe Israel ConnectionThe Israel Connection: Dr. Larry WeissSend a textDr. Larry Weiss spent several months in Israel, serving as a medical volunteer with Magen David Adom. This week, Dr. Weiss joins Esti Zenati on The Israel Connection to discuss his experience.
2024-02-2218 min
The Beth El Podcast NetworkThe Israel Connection - "52 hours in Israel"Send us a text52 hours in Israel - Rabbi Dana Saroken discusses her recent trip to Israel and Esti Zenati reflects on life in the United States since October 7.
2023-12-1220 minThe Israel ConnectionThe Israel Connection: 52 hours in IsraelSend a text52 hours in Israel - Rabbi Dana Saroken discusses her recent trip to Israel and Esti Zenati reflects on life in the United States since October 7.
2023-12-1120 min