The Rabbi Avi Show

Horizontal Media
  • 4.0 (4)
  • Judaism
  • Updated Biweekly

The Rabbi Avi Show is the podcast that explores the full spectrum of human connection. Each episode, Rabbi Avi brings his wisdom, humor, and unique perspective to a new conversation about the relationships that shape our lives. From the bonds of marriage and family to the dynamics of friendship, community, and even our relationship with ourselves, The Rabbi Avi show tackles the big questions and everyday challenges with warmth and honesty. By diving into complex and crucial topics The Rabbi Avi Show looks closely at relationships between Jews and other groups, exploring the contours and nuance of the unique connections between Israelis and Americans, examining the shared values, differences, and evolving ties that bind these two communities on the micro and macro levels. Whether you're Jewish or not, The Rabbi Avi Show uncovers valuable perspectives dwelling in the fabric between us. Join us as we discover what it truly means to be connected.

  1. Jun 21

    The Battle for the Soul of Islam and the Future of American Liberty

    Show Notes Ep. 21In this comprehensive, long-form conversation, Rabbi Avi Alpert sits down with Dr. Zuhdi Jasser—a U.S. Navy veteran, practicing Phoenix physician and cardiologist, founder of the American Islamic Forum for Democracy (AIFD), and candidate for U.S. Congress in Arizona's 4th District. Together, they go far beyond the standard political talking points to diagnose the deep systemic pathologies facing both Western democracy and modern Islamic thought. From comparing bureaucratic institutional "groupthink" to religious authoritarianism, to outlining a proactive ideological strategy for the Middle East, this episode serves as an unfiltered masterclass in independent thinking. Support Independent MediaThe Rabbi Avi Show is entirely listener-supported. If you find value in these deep, long-form intellectual dialogues, please consider partnering with us financially to keep our production standards high. Support us on Patreon: patreon.com/horizontalmedia Key Episode Themes & Discussion PointsA Clinical Diagnosis of Washington: How primary care medicine teaches a leader to build diverse coalitions, look beyond superficial symptoms, identify the root pathology of a crisis, and apply evidence-based treatments to policymaking. The "Red-Green Axis" and Tribalization: Analyzing how multi-billion-dollar foreign funding operations and identity politics have radicalized American discourse, shifting ideological traditions into weaponized, protective identity groups. The Pathology of Authoritarianism: Drawing direct structural parallels between the dictatorial control of religious imams who demand uncritical fealty ("Godolatry") and the federal mandates, media silencing, and bureaucratic overreach witnessed during the COVID-19 pandemic. National Security & Border Ideology: Why securing the southern border requires moving past defensive, reactive organizational blacklists to proactively vetting immigrant populations for anti-constitutional, totalitarian ideologies. The "Cold War" Strategy for the Middle East: Moving past the failed nation-building models of the Bush era to employ "muscular liberalism"—deploying a robust ideological offense that pumps classical liberal values directly to oppressed populations via media networks. Pluralism vs. Triumphalism: Dr. Jasser addresses the fear of global Islamic dominance, arguing for an internal Islamic Reformation that isolates political Islam (Islamism) and elevates a character-driven, personal faith rooted in individual liberty. A Rational Muslim Defense of Israel: Exploring why the Jewish State stands as a vibrant, free-market beacon of Western values in the Middle East, featuring autonomous, adaptive judicial precedents that outshine state-controlled theological blocks. Organizations & Policy Frameworks MentionedAmerican Islamic Forum for Democracy (AIFD) – Founded by Dr. Jasser to champion the separation of mosque and state. The Muslim Reform Movement – An initiative launched in 2015 by secular and reform-minded Muslim patriots across the West. The Declaration of the Muslim Reform Movement – A foundational two-page document establishing principles of human rights, gender equality, and secular governance used to distinguish patriotic faith from political Islam. The Clarity Coalition – An umbrella group patterned after the Cold War-era Committee on the Present Danger (CPD), standing for "Champions for Liberty Against the Reality of Islamist Tyranny". Committee on the Present Danger (CPD) – The historic, bipartisan coalition formerly led by Senators Jon Kyl and Joe Lieberman that helped shape the Reagan administration's peaceful triumph over the Soviet Union. Books & Scholars Reference ListBooks Mentioned: A Battle for the Soul of Islam: An American Muslim Defeats Radical Islam by Dr. Zuhdi Jasser (2013) – Dr. Jasser's personal narrative and blueprint for systemic internal reform. What Went Wrong?: The Clash Between Islam and Modernity in the Middle East by Bernard Lewis – A historical analysis tracking the ossification of critical thinking and the decline of intellectual diversity in the Islamic world. The Jews of Islam by Bernard Lewis – A study documenting the historical coexistence and cultural achievements of religious minorities under classical Islamic rule. Democracy in America by Alexis de Tocqueville – A seminal text exploring how a shared moral fabric and decentralized civic virtue made American republicanism uniquely successful without relying on authoritarian military enforcement. The Protocols of the Elders of Zion – Referenced historically as a fraudulent, early 20th-century Russian text deployed across Arabist regimes to fuel systemic anti-Semitism. Scholars & Intellectuals Cited: Maimonides (The Rambam) – The premier medieval philosopher whose towering legal and rational works flourished under Sefarad/Muslim governance. Fatima Mernissi – Islamic scholar and writer noted for her foundational texts analyzing the compatibility of Islam and democracy. Abdullahi Ahmed An-Na'im – Emory University professor recognized for his extensive work on Islamic reform and secular civic law. Abdolkarim Soroush – Renowned Tehran philosopher and intellectual who articulated a framework for Islamic liberalism. Mustafa Akyol – Contemporary author and journalist focusing on liberty, reason, and the history of liberal thought within Islamic traditions. Connect with Our GuestCampaign Website: Z4AZ.com (Z number four A Z) Social Media: Learn more about Dr. Jasser's ongoing movement to bring constitutional principles and robust discourse back to Washington. Subscribe & Review: If this masterclass in independent thinking challenged your assumptions, please subscribe to The Rabbi Avi Show, leave us a five-star review, and share this episode with someone looking for political sanity. Tizku Lamitzvot!

    1h 13m

  2. Jun 7

    Ideological Evolution With Dr. Molly Dunn

    Show Notes | The Rabbi Avi Show Episode 20 Episode SummaryIn this powerful continuation of our exploration into modern political and cultural shifts, Rabbi Avi sits down with Dr. Molly Dunn, a critical criminologist and former university professor whose life story reads like a roadmap of our current intellectual landscape. Following up on our recent conversation with Chloe Loos regarding journeys away from the far left, this episode dives into the mechanics of high-level academia, institutional power, systemic anti-Semitism, and the law. Dr. Dunn shares her profound ideological evolution from the deconstructive frameworks of progressive critical theory to an active position in the pro-Israel political center. Now serving as the Education Associate for the Center for Jewish Resilience under the Jewish Philanthropies of Southern Arizona, she details her personal transition from the ivory tower to hands-on community building, unpacking what it truly means to foster Jewish continuity and pride today. Key Topics DiscussedThe Ideological Pivot: How tracking omissions of Jewish identity in historical research—and facing pushback from her own doctoral committee—shattered standard progressive paradigms for Dr. Dunn. The Gaps in Intersectionality: Why modern academic frameworks miscategorize the Jewish people by forcing an ancient ethnicity, nation, and faith into rigid, contemporary American racial boxes. When Theory Meets Reality: A look inside the criminology department and the inherent disconnect of viewing crime entirely as a social construct when Jewish communities actively require institutional protection. The Battle with NAU: Dr. Dunn's firsthand experience dealing with antisemitic hostility from university authorities behind closed doors, and how mainstream pro-Israel legal advocates stepped up to secure an amicable resolution. Building Institutional Literacy: Moving past street activism to teach the next generation of students how to read student handbooks, navigate institutional policies, and stand up to administrative overreach. Legislative Hurdles & Local Action: The battle for Arizona House Bill 2867, designed to protect Jewish students and faculty, and why outside special interest groups are pushing back against those on the front lines. The "Jewson" Community: Why Tucson’s unique ability to bring Orthodox, Conservative, and Reform leaders together to fight for Jewish peoplehood provides a powerful model for the rest of American Jewry. Resources & Links MentionedSupport Independent Media: Help keep our studio running and our content free from corporate influence by partnering with us at patreon.com/horizontalmedia Connect with Legal Support: If you are experiencing anti-Semitism or legal challenges on a college campus, find resources through StandWithUs. Explore Local Resilience: Learn more about the community initiatives, public affairs advocacy, and educational programming at the Jewish Philanthropies of Southern Arizona. Previous Episodes Mentioned: Catch up on the foundational episode on Christian Zionism featuring Pastor Jeff Logsdon at the beginning of the season. Listen to our previous episode detailing personal journeys out of the far left with Chloe Loos.

    51 min
  3. The Oct 8th Awakening

    May 24

    The Oct 8th Awakening

    Show Notes In this installment of The Rabbi Avi Show, Rabbi Avi Alpert sits down with Chloe Loos, the Director of Arts and Culture at the Tucson JCC. Chloe shares her profound journey of "de-assimilation," tracing her path from a secular upbringing in Flagstaff to becoming a dedicated Jewish communal professional in the wake of personal and collective trauma. The conversation explores the "October 8th" phenomenon, where many Jews are rediscovering their heritage and a fierce commitment to Israel following the events of late 2023. Key Discussion PointsGrowing Up in Flagstaff: Chloe reflects on being one of the only Jewish children in her community, navigating "othering" experiences and a lack of visible Jewish infrastructure. The Mediterranean Parallel: A look at the cultural similarities between Chloe’s Jewish and Italian-Catholic heritage and how those parallels shaped her identity. A Journey Through Grief: How the loss of her mother in 2020 served as the first bridge back to Jewish tradition through the daily practice of the Mourner’s Kaddish. The "October 8th" Awakening: Chloe discusses the "absolute rupture" she experienced within progressive and secular circles following October 7th, leading to her decision to dedicate her life to Jewish peoplehood. The "Double Cross" of the Far-Left: A candid look at the ostracization Chloe faced from long-term friends and the "weaponization of therapy language" used to dismiss Jewish lived experiences. Arts as Avodah: How Chloe utilizes the Tucson International Jewish Film Festival and other cultural programs to build a "vibrant mosaic" of Jewish life that fosters belonging. De-assimilation Across Generations: The inspiring story of how Chloe’s own return to tradition has encouraged her grandmothers to reclaim their own Jewish symbols and heritage. Notable Quotes"The Chloe who voted for Bernie was doing her best... her frontal cortex wasn't developed." "I really came back to the religious piece of Judaism or the spiritual aspect through grief, even though we're such a joyful practice." "You don’t have to try so hard to fit in, because you already do." Support the ShowThis episode is part of a series at Horizontal Media exploring the deep shifts in Jewish identity today. If you find value in these conversations, please consider supporting our mission. Patreon: www.patreon.com/horizontalmedia

    37 min

  4. May 10

    A View From The Negev

    Show Notes: In this episode, Rabbi Avi bridges the distance between the Sonoran Desert of Arizona and the Negev Desert of Israel to sit down with Eden Achituv. Many in the Tucson community remember Eden and her husband Netanel from their time as shlichim (emissaries) at the Tucson Hebrew Academy. Today, Eden shares her perspective from her home in Retamim, a small community near Be'er Sheva, offering a "truth on the ground" perspective that challenges global narratives. In This Episode, We Discuss:The "Back and Forth" of Shlichut: How serving the Jewish community in the Diaspora (Chicago and Tucson) deepened Eden’s appreciation for Zionism and the intentionality required to live a Jewish life. Life in the "Ring of Fire": What it looks like to raise four boys in the Negev during a multi-front war involving Gaza and Iran, and the "automatic" shift families make when the sirens go off. The Mizrahi Story Identity: Reclaiming the narrative of the majority of Israelis whose families—like Eden’s—were exiled from Morocco, Tunisia, and Syria, and why the "colonial" label is a historical lie. Resilience in Retamim: How a small desert community supports its families when 90% of the men are called to reserve duty, and how they responded to the burning of a local lookout point by planting trees and building roads. The "TikTok Generation": The inspiring dedication of young Israeli soldiers and the "voice that calls" them to protect their people. The Meaning of Victory: Moving beyond military benchmarks to focus on the return of hostages and the spiritual resilience of Klal Yisrael. Mentioned in This Episode:Tucson Hebrew Academy (THA): https://thaaz.org/ Masa Israeli (The Israeli Journey): https://masaisrael.org/ Hannah Senesh: The poet and paratrooper whose words "The voice called, and I went" continue to inspire Israeli resilience. Support the ShowThe Rabbi Avi Show is a labor of love and a part of the Horizontal Media mission to provide nuanced, deep perspectives on Jewish life and thought. If you find value in these vital stories, please consider supporting our work. Your contributions allow us to keep producing high-quality content and sharing voices like Eden’s with the world. Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/horizontalmedia

    58 min
  5. The Maimonidean Roadmap: A Conversation with Rabbi Yosef Lopez

    Apr 26

    The Maimonidean Roadmap: A Conversation with Rabbi Yosef Lopez

    Show Notes:In this deeply personal episode, Rabbi Avi Alpert sits down with his longtime friend, colleague, and "partner in crime," Rabbi Yosef Lopez. Together, they trace Yosef’s journey from the independent environment of Tucson to the intense yeshivot of Israel, exploring the intellectual frictions that led him away from modern reactionary models and back to the classical, rationalist tradition of the Ge’onim and Maimonides. They dive into the "systemic" nature of Torah, challenge the modern obsession with Mourner’s Kaddish while discussing the future of Sephardic scholarship. Support the ShowThe Rabbi Avi Show is a production of Horizontal Media. We are dedicated to bringing you raw, intellectual, and unfiltered explorations of Torah, philosophy, and Jewish life. We can’t do this without your support. Support us on Patreon: patreon.com/horizontalmedia Episode HighlightsIntro: A call to support Horizontal Media and an introduction to Rabbi Yosef Lopez. Roots in the Desert: Yosef discusses his upbringing in Tucson and his "autodidactic" path to Jewish scholarship. Navigating the Yeshiva: The intellectual turning points in Israel—from the discouragement of studying Miqra (Bible) to the "Godolatry" of modern reactionary models. Mentors and Influences: The impact of Rabbi Mark Angel and the late Hakham Jose Faur on Yosef’s intellectual separation from mainstream Orthodoxy. Hakham vs. Pulpit Rabbi: Defining the "wise person" in the Geonic tradition vs. the modern "Christianized" model of the pulpit rabbi. Torah is Not a "Religion": Exploring Torah as a legal, political, and ethical system rather than a Western set of dogmas at odds with science. Discipline vs. Narrowness: How the Maimonidean tradition provides more latitude and creativity through rigorous analysis. The Calendar as a Roadmap: A look at Yosef’s podcast, Hokhmat HaHodesh, and the psychological curriculum of the Hebrew months. The Kaddish Controversy: Why challenging the widely accepted customs of Mourner’s Kaddish can actually relieve the psychological burden of mourners. Intermission: A spontaneous toast with Del Bac Whiskey, a Tucson original. The Sephardic Brotherhood: Yosef’s work editing primary sources, Ladino texts, and the upcoming Maimonidean Siddur project. First Steps: Advice for those who feel "threatened" by religion but crave the wisdom of a timeless Torah. Resources Mentioned in This EpisodePodcast: Hokhmat HaHodesh (Wisdom of the Month) hosted by Rabbi Yosef Lopez. Books: The Way of Sephardic Mourning by Rabbi Yamin Levi: https://www.amazon.com/Sephardic-Way-Death-Mourning/dp/1947857894 Anti-Maimonidean Demons (Essay) by Hakham Jose Faur: http://moreshetsepharad.org/media/Anti-Maimonidean_Demons.pdf Mekor Haim by Reverend Hakham Henry Pereira Mendes. Organizations: The Sephardic Brotherhood of America The Institute for Jewish Ideas and Ideals Local Flavor: Hamilton Distillers / Whiskey Del Bac (Tucson, AZ). Subscribe & Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to The Rabbi Avi Show and leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform. It helps more people find the conversation! Join the Conversation: Follow us on social media or visit Horizontal Media to learn more about our other programs, including Horizontal Conversations and Hokhmat HaHodesh. Tizku Lamitzvot!

    1h 6m

  6. Apr 12

    Truth, Fiction, and the Modern Golem with Roger Simon

    In this thought-provoking episode, Rabbi Avi sits down with Academy Award-nominated screenwriter and legendary journalist Roger Simon. From the heart of secular Hollywood to becoming a leading voice in conservative journalism, Roger discusses the personal and geopolitical catalysts—including 9/11 and the events of October 7th—that shaped his spiritual and political evolution. The conversation centers on Roger’s latest work of theological fiction, EMET. We explore why fiction is sometimes the only way to reach the heart of the facts, the mystical resurgence of the Golem in the 21st century, and the delicate balance between Divine trust (Bitachon) and human effort (Hishtadlut). Featured Guest: Roger Simon Roger Simon is an Oscar-nominated screenwriter (Enemies, A Love Story), author of the Moses Wine detective series, and co-founder of PJ Media. He is currently a columnist for The Epoch Times and a prolific novelist. Connect with Roger:   Read his latest novel: EMET: A Novel https://www.amazon.com/EMET-Roger-Simon-ebook/dp/B0GNX8X9YW   Roger Simon on Substack: https://substack.com/@rogersimon   Journalism at The Epoch Times: https://www.theepochtimes.com/author/roger-l-simon Key Discussion Points:  The Hollywood Pivot: Roger discusses his transformation from a Yale grad student and civil rights worker to a conservative journalist, triggered by the O.J. Simpson trial and 9/11.  The Concept of "Chosenness": Moving from discomfort with the term to understanding it as a "burden" and a responsibility to unite with the Divine.   The Modern Golem: Why Roger chose the ancient legend of the Golem—a creature of clay animated by the word Emet (Truth)—to address the horrors of October 7th and the Iranian missile attacks.  Kabbalah and Rationalism: Exploring the practical advice found within Jewish mysticism and how it informs Roger's "Kosher Light" lifestyle.  The Role of Fiction: Why journalism and political commentary sometimes fail to capture the "history behind the curtain" in a way that a novel can.  Antisemitism in Modern Institutions: A candid look at the failures of elite universities and the shifting tides of the "Woke Right." Episode Resources & Mentions:  Rabbinic Literature: Mentions of Yetzer HaRa and Yetzer HaTov* in the works of Rabbi Shneur Zalman of Liadi.  Literary References: Isaac Bashevis Singer’s Enemies, A Love Story; Karel Čapek’s R.U.R.* (which invented the word "robot"); and the Golem works of Elie Wiesel.   Amit Segal: Amit Segal’s Daily Updates (Telegram/Email).  Pirkei Avot 2:16: "It is not your duty to finish the work, but neither are you at liberty to neglect it." Support The Rabbi Avi Show: If you enjoyed this deep-dive conversation, please consider supporting our mission to explore the intersection of theology, journalism, and Jewish life. Support us on Patreon: patreon.com/horizontalmedia Follow Rabbi Avi: Stay connected for more "Horizontal Conversations" on Jewish thought and modern reality. Closing Thought: "Trust God and pass the ammunition."

    48 min
  7. Curriculum For Freedom

    Mar 29

    Curriculum For Freedom

    Guest: Peter Berkowitz, Senior Fellow at the Hoover InstitutionIn this episode, Rabbi Avi Alpert sits down with Peter Berkowitz, a distinguished scholar at the intersection of political philosophy and high-stakes statecraft. Formerly the Director of Policy Planning at the U.S. State Department, Peter brings a unique blend of academic rigor and practical diplomatic experience to the table. Rabbi Avi adopts the role of "loyal opposition," challenging Peter with the toughest questions currently circulating in the media regarding the "Woke Right," the future of American education, and the existential military conflict with the Iranian regime. Key Discussion Points1. The "Woke Right" vs. The "Woke Left" Defining "Woke": Peter argues that both extremes share a common repudiation of limited government and individual liberty, viewing our founding principles as the source of social evils rather than the solution. The Institutional Shift: While "Wokeism" was traditionally a product of elite universities (the Left), Peter observes its migration into the mainstream political Right, specifically within "Trump world" and voices like Tucker Carlson. 2. A Curriculum for Freedom The Centrality of Education: Drawing on Aristotle, Peter emphasizes that a regime's survival depends on an education relative to its principles. The Missing Core: A critique of modern universities for failing to require the study of American political ideas, the Constitution, and the Civil War. The Spirit of Inquiry: Why "educating the educators" must focus on teaching the disputes and controversies of history rather than mere indoctrination, inspired by John Stuart Mill’s defense of free discussion. 3. Strategic Realities in Iran Military Objectives vs. Regime Change: Peter distinguishes between "regime change" and the immediate necessity of eliminating Iran’s capacity to project military force (nuclear programs, missiles, and proxies). The "Maximum Pressure" Debate: A look at why slowing down the nuclear clock is a realistic strategic victory, even if total abandonment of the program is unlikely through diplomacy alone. The Ethics of Proportionality: Addressing the "war crimes" of indiscriminate Iranian rocket fire versus the focused military targets of the U.S.-Israel alliance. The "Head of the Snake": Why ending the 47-year war started by the Islamic Republic is a moral necessity for regional stability. 4. Great Power Competition: China and Venezuela The Global "Axis": Comparing the threat of the Maduro regime in Venezuela to the far more complex challenge of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). Economic Interdependence: The delicate balance of competing with a primary strategic rival that is also a primary economic partner. The Taiwan Flashpoint: The dangers of military miscalculation in the South China Sea and the end of "strategic ambiguity." 5. Philosophy and the Future of the West Resilience: Comparing the "citizen army" culture of Israel to the potential vulnerability of a prosperous, comfortable American public. Recovering Tradition: A call to return to the two pillars of Western civilization—classical philosophy and biblical faith—as a means of finding meaning in 2026. A Post-Conflict Middle East: A vision of a stabilized region where moderate Sunni Arab nations and Israel can flourish without the looming shadow of an expansionist Iranian military-industrial complex. Resources MentionedBook: Explaining Israel: The Jewish State, the Middle East, and America by Peter Berkowitz. https://www.hoover.org/research/explaining-israel-jewish-state-middle-east-and-america https://www.amazon.com/Explaining-Israel-Jewish-Middle-America/dp/B0FD4NTDY6 Organization: The Hoover Institution at Stanford University. hoover.org Philosophy: Friedrich Nietzsche's The Gay Science and John Stuart Mill's On Liberty. Support the ShowIf you value these deep dives into the soul of the matter, consider supporting us: Patreon: patreon.com/horizontalmedia Subscribe: Follow The Rabbi Avi Show on your favorite podcast platform. Review: Leave us a review to help others find moral clarity in an age of confusion.

    59 min
  8. Jewish Identity Orientation with Professor David Graizbord

    Mar 15

    Jewish Identity Orientation with Professor David Graizbord

    Show Notes: In this episode, Rabbi Avi sits down with Professor David Graizbord, Director of the Arizona Center for Judaic Studies at the University of Arizona. A world-class historian and a beloved member of Congregation Bet Shalom in Tucson, Graizbord brings a unique vantage point to the modern Jewish experience. Born in Boston and raised in Mexico City, his academic expertise in the 17th-century conversos (secret Jews) serves as a powerful lens through which he analyzes Jewish identity, Zionism, and the challenges facing American Jews in 2026. Key Discussion PointsThe Two Worlds of a Jewish Scholar The "Citizen" vs. The Professor: Graizbord reflects on the difference between being a "regular person" at Bet Shalom and the more guarded role of a professor at a state university. The "Cultural Artifact" Phenomenon: He discusses the reality of teaching Judaic studies in a university where 75% of the students are not Jewish, and the irony of being perceived as a representative "artifact" of a culture rather than just an instructor. The "New Zionists" and the Generational Divide Identity Redefinition: A look at whether young Jews are dropping their identity or simply redefining Zionism in a way that feels less stigmatized in modern social circles. The Weight of Heritage: The struggle for young Jews to handle their heritage in contexts where it is poorly understood or viewed with condescension. The Modern "Converso" Experience The Secret Jewish Self: Graizbord posits that many modern American Jews feel like "new conversos," hiding their identity or feeling a sense of internalized unease when demonstrating their Jewishness in public spaces. The Progressive Conflict: How Jewish students who identify as "passionate progressives" navigate spaces that are increasingly anti-Israel and, at times, echo medieval libels. The "Liberal Bargain" The Cost of Acceptance: An analysis of the historical bargain offered by Western democracies: Jews are accepted as a "religious group" (analogous to Christians) but are often asked to forfeit their status as a "nation" or a distinct civilization. Religion vs. Culture: Why Graizbord rejects the term "Judaism" as a simple religion, arguing instead for a "comprehensive culture" that includes peoplehood, land, and Torah. The Diaspora vs. Israel: A Prolonged Divorce A Bipolar World: The shifting centers of Jewish life between Israel and the Diaspora (specifically New York). The Freedom of the Israeli: A provocative look at how Israelis possess a fundamental freedom that Diaspora Jews do not: the freedom from needing to constantly justify their existence to their neighbors. Memorable Quotes"Jewish organization is a contradiction in terms... ultimately it works because of the underlying anthropological reality, which is that we’re a people." "Israeli soldiers don't worry about anti-Semitism. The anti-Semites worry about the Israeli soldiers. That is a kind of freedom that we do not have here." "I’m a pessimist with regard to the future of Jews in America. I’m an optimist with regard to the future of Jews." Monty Python referenceSupporting the ShowIf you enjoyed this deep dive into Jewish history and identity, consider supporting the "disorganized but vital" conversations on the Rabbi Avi Show: Subscribe: Available on all major podcast platforms. Support: Visit patreon.com/horizontalmedia to help keep these learning sessions unplugged and unapologetic.

    1h 7m
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Ratings & Reviews

4
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

The Rabbi Avi Show is the podcast that explores the full spectrum of human connection. Each episode, Rabbi Avi brings his wisdom, humor, and unique perspective to a new conversation about the relationships that shape our lives. From the bonds of marriage and family to the dynamics of friendship, community, and even our relationship with ourselves, The Rabbi Avi show tackles the big questions and everyday challenges with warmth and honesty. By diving into complex and crucial topics The Rabbi Avi Show looks closely at relationships between Jews and other groups, exploring the contours and nuance of the unique connections between Israelis and Americans, examining the shared values, differences, and evolving ties that bind these two communities on the micro and macro levels. Whether you're Jewish or not, The Rabbi Avi Show uncovers valuable perspectives dwelling in the fabric between us. Join us as we discover what it truly means to be connected.

Information

  • Creator
    Horizontal Media
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    22
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Horizontal Media 2025
  • Show Website
    The Rabbi Avi Show

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