Episodes

  • Is Israel an Apartheid State? Part 1

    Is Israel an Apartheid State? Part 1
    Nov 25 2024
    This week, we’re diving into one of the most heated and challenging questions about Israel today: Is it an apartheid state? Yeah, it’s uncomfortable—and complicated. In this first part of a two-part series, Noam Weissman unpacks the history of apartheid, walks us through the situation in the West Bank, and lays out the daily realities for both Israelis and Palestinians. No slogans, no “talking points,” just an honest look at the facts—and the feelings—that shape this conversation. Whether you’re yelling “of course not!” or “absolutely yes!” (or somewhere in between), this episode will challenge what you think you know. Stick around for Part 2 next week, where we’ll dig even deeper into East Jerusalem and what this debate means for Israelis, Palestinians, and the rest of us. ------------------- This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media. For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out: Jewish History Nerds Wondering Jews Soulful Jewish Living
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    56 mins
  • Special Crossover: Navigating Israel, Identity, and Empathy—How to Talk to Kids About Israel

    Special Crossover: Navigating Israel, Identity, and Empathy—How to Talk to Kids About Israel
    Nov 18 2024
    In this special crossover episode, Noam Weissman shares an insightful conversation from his other podcast, Wondering Jews With Mijal and Noam, co-hosted with Dr. Mijal Bitton. Together, they tackle one of the toughest questions Jewish parents face today: how to approach the complex topic of Israel and antisemitism with children. Noam and Mijal dive into the nuances of Israel education, offering reflections on how their perspectives have evolved over the past year and practical ways to discuss difficult subjects. Whether you're a parent, educator, or someone deeply engaged with Jewish issues, this episode offers thoughtful guidance for fostering understanding and resilience in the next generation. If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to Wondering Jews with Mijal and Noam for more thought-provoking conversations! ------------------- This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media. For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out: Jewish History Nerds Wondering Jews Soulful Jewish Living
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    40 mins
  • Israel Open Mic: Anti-Zionism, Iran-Contra, and Why Empathy Matters

    Israel Open Mic: Anti-Zionism, Iran-Contra, and Why Empathy Matters
    Nov 11 2024
    In this special Israel Open Mic episode of Unpacking Israeli History, host Noam Weissman is answering your questions! Noam dives into some of the most fascinating and tricky topics in Israeli history—like why some Jews are anti-Zionist, how Israel got tangled up in the Iran-Contra affair, and what the deal is with Jerusalem. He also takes on conspiracy theories, gives a shout-out to Palestinian peace advocates, and shows why empathy can go a long way in understanding tough issues. ----------------- This episode of Unpacking Israeli History is generously sponsored by Marci and Andrew Spitzer. ------------ This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media. For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out: Jewish History Nerds Wondering Jews Soulful Jewish Living
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    42 mins
  • What is Zionism? Part 2: Challenges, Education, and What’s Next

    What is Zionism? Part 2: Challenges, Education, and What’s Next
    Nov 4 2024
    In part two, Noam and Haviv tackle the tough questions about Zionism today. They dig into how Zionism is viewed around the world, how it’s taught, and what this means for Israelis, Palestinians, and people everywhere. Noam and Haviv consider whether Zionism has achieved its original goals and how understanding stories of the Other can help build a bridge between communities. Book recommendations: A History Of Zionism, Walter Lacquer The Zionist Ideas, Gil Troy Europe Against The Jews, Gotz Aly Israel, A History, Anita Shapira
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    55 mins
  • What is Zionism? Part 1: Origins and Big Ideas

    What is Zionism? Part 1: Origins and Big Ideas
    Oct 28 2024
    In part one of this two-part series, Noam Weissman and Haviv Rettig Gur dive into the origins and big ideas behind Zionism. They break down what Zionism actually means, where it came from, and why it’s been so central to the Jewish story. Along the way, Noam and Haviv explore common myths, misunderstandings, and the early hopes of Zionist thinkers.
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    52 mins
  • Oslo: The Peace that Wasn't [Rerelease]

    Oslo: The Peace that Wasn't [Rerelease]
    Oct 21 2024
    In this re-release, we delve into the Oslo Accords, a pivotal moment in Israeli-Palestinian history that promised peace but now feels more elusive than ever. Amidst the current Israeli-Palestinian conflict and regional instability, we explore the complexities, missed opportunities, and enduring challenges that continue to shape the quest for peace in the Middle East. Can we still dare to hope for a resolution? ------------- Sources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1R1WuODAcUUbYGMBnTfD2Yj4N_VRBZZVSLG4nTOdISiM/edit?usp=sharing
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    46 mins
  • Part 3: The Aftermath of October 7

    Part 3: The Aftermath of October 7
    Oct 14 2024
    Part 3 of 3: The aftermath In the immediate aftermath of October 7, 2023, Israel grappled with overwhelming loss and destruction. As Hamas terrorists ravaged border communities, Israel counted its dead, sought its hostages, and began its retaliation. One year later, Israelis are divided on how to confront Hamas while grappling with their internal fractures. From the initial surge of unity bound by grief, a nation now faces both external and internal threats, with Israeli society at a crossroads. As emotions run high, one must ask: How can Israelis rebuild their shattered society while grappling with the weight of their own collective trauma?
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    1 hr and 1 min
  • Part 2: The Nightmare of October 7, 2023

    Part 2: The Nightmare of October 7, 2023
    Oct 7 2024
    On October 7, 2023, Israel witnessed a nightmare unfold as Hamas militants stormed the southern border communities, committing acts of unimaginable brutality. In a ruthless attack, Hamas fighters from Gaza unleashed horror on innocent civilians—horrific s*xual a**ault, the slaughtering of 1,300 Israelis, and the kidnapping of over 200 hostages into Gaza. Through the voices of survivors and grieving families of those killed or abducted, this episode brings the unimaginable suffering - graphic, explicit, and deeply unsettling - into sharp, heart-wrenching focus. This episode is the second part of a three-part series that will delve into Gaza’s history, the events of October 7, and the ongoing aftermath we continue to witness today.
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    56 mins