Live The Land

Franny Waisman
  • 5.0 (5)
  • Places & Travel

Live the Land is a podcast hosted by Franny Waisman, tour guide, educator, and lifelong explorer, where ancient Hebrew texts come alive through the land of Israel. Through conversations with people whose stories and spirit illuminate Israel’s past, present, and future, the show invites you into a deeper connection. Whether you are planning your next trip to Israel or seeking inspiration from afar, Live the Land is your place to journey, learn, and connect.

  1. 1d ago

    Inside the Training Program for Kohanim with Yehoshua Landau

    Could the Temple service actually be renewed—and are the Kohanim prepared to carry it out? Franny Waisman speaks with Yehoshua Landau, founder of Mamlechet Kohanim, about transforming the laws of the Temple from theoretical study into practical preparation. Landau explains how Kohanim are learning the procedures, garments, and responsibilities needed for avodah—and why he believes the greatest obstacle to renewing the service is not practicality, but national will. Yehoshua Landau shares how growing up as a Kohen in Brooklyn, moving to Israel, and living in Jerusalem’s Old City led him to establish Mamlechet Kohanim. Inspired by the Chafetz Chaim’s emphasis on preparing Kohanim for redemption, Landau created a practical training program to teach areas of Temple service that are rarely studied in a hands-on way. At a desert farm near Mitzpe Yericho, participants train with a full-size mizbeach and learn about priestly garments, washing the hands and feet, handling offerings, blood procedures, ketoret, and other elements of the avodah. The program uses substitutes rather than animals, and graduates receive certification upon completion. Landau argues that national offerings could potentially resume on an altar on the Temple Mount even before the Temple is rebuilt. He estimates that at least 120 trained Kohanim would be required to begin the daily service. He also discusses Jericho’s historic connection to the Temple, Mamlechet Kohanim’s Shavuot reenactments of the Shtei HaLechem offering, and his belief that the primary barrier is a lack of collective desire rather than a lack of practical ability. About the Guest Yehoshua Landau is the founder of Mamlechet Kohanim, an initiative dedicated to preparing Kohanim for the practical responsibilities of the Temple service. Originally from Brooklyn, he moved to Israel 12 years ago and lived in Jerusalem’s Old City. His work combines traditional Torah study with hands-on training intended to preserve and restore practical knowledge of the avodah. Ready to discover how Kohanim are preparing for the possible renewal of the Temple service? Tune in to the full episode to explore the practical training, Torah sources, and national vision behind Mamlechet Kohanim.

  2. Jul 22

    Israel’s Tribes Meet Again in Rotem with Rachel Ben Sira

    Can religious, secular, and traditional Jews build one community without anyone being asked to compromise who they are? Host Franny Waisman speaks with Rachel Ben Sira about life in Rotem, a tiny Jordan Valley community overlooking the biblical route through which the Israelites entered the Land of Israel. Founded by one determined woman on an abandoned army outpost, Rotem has developed into a rare meeting place for Israelis with profoundly different religious and political identities. Rachel discusses the beauty and difficulty of raising religious children in a genuinely mixed community, the disagreements that continued after October 7, and what allows neighbors to remain connected despite their differences. She also reveals the Jordan Valley’s hidden attractions—from enormous natural springs and spectacular winter landscapes to biblical sites, agriculture and a café so popular that visitors have arrived by helicopter. Rachel traces Rotem’s story to Shira Amosi, who returned from Ethiopia inspired to create a simple, authentic life connected to the land. Searching for a community open to every kind of Israeli, Shira eventually settled alone on the remains of a former army outpost. Without regular electricity or running water, she posted notices inviting others to join her. Slowly, a community began to grow. Today, Rotem intentionally includes religious, traditional and secular residents without forcing anyone into a shared middle ground. Rachel explains that this openness is inspiring but also complicated. Questions involving Shabbat, synagogue life, youth activities, music and standards of dress continually require families to decide how to participate while remaining true to themselves. The conversation also explores Rotem’s dramatic surroundings. Its hills become intensely green during winter and stark desert during summer, yet beneath the heat are enormous natural springs such as Ein Sukkot. From Rotem, visitors can see landscapes connected to Israel’s entrance into the land, Jacob’s journeys, and the story of Balak and Bilaam. Despite the Jordan Valley’s remoteness and difficult climate, its communities, farms and schools continue to expand. Rotem alone has a waiting list of more than 100 families seeking a quieter, more connected way of life. Ready to experience the Jordan Valley beyond the highway? Tune in to discover Rotem’s remarkable story, explore the region’s hidden springs and biblical landscapes, and hear what this unusual community can teach Israel about unity without uniformity. ---------------- Ready to experience it for yourself? Visit https://judeasamariaexperience.com/ to plan your journey to Judea and Samaria.

  3. Jul 14

    Never Give Up on the Temple Mount with Yehuda Glick

    What happens when surviving isn't enough anymore?In this episode of Live the Land, Franny Waisman sits down with Rabbi Yehuda Glick to discuss resilience, purpose, and why the future of Israel depends on building—not merely enduring. Rabbi Glick shares his personal journey through profound loss, his decades-long advocacy for Jewish access to the Temple Mount, surviving an assassination attempt, and the vision behind Amitsim, an organization helping young widowed families rebuild their lives. Together they explore how the Temple Mount, Judea and Samaria, and compassion for others are all part of creating a brighter future for Israel and the world. Rabbi Yehuda Glick reflects on his lifelong mission to help build Israel's future by strengthening both people and place. He shares how personal tragedy shaped his commitment to supporting widowed families through Amitsim, an organization focused on empowering surviving parents and ensuring children continue to thrive. He also recounts his decades advocating for Jewish rights on the Temple Mount, the challenges he faced—including harassment and a near-fatal assassination attempt—and why he believes the Temple Mount remains central to Israel's spiritual mission. Throughout the conversation, Rabbi Glick calls on listeners to move beyond survival toward building stronger families, communities, and a future rooted in hope and responsibility. About the GuestRabbi Yehuda Glick is an educator, activist, former member of the Knesset, and one of the leading advocates for Jewish access and prayer on the Temple Mount. After surviving an assassination attempt in 2014, he continued promoting dialogue, religious freedom, and peaceful coexistence. He is also the co-founder of Amitsim, an organization supporting young widowed families, and is actively involved with the Shalom Jerusalem Foundation. Time Stamps00:00 – Getting Used to Reality 00:59 – Surviving vs. Building 05:16 – Finding Home in Otniel 08:48 – The Mission of Amitsim 11:26 – Supporting Widowed Families and Orphans 22:20 – Becoming a Temple Mount Advocate 34:56 – Escalating Harassment 36:36 – Becoming "The Most Dangerous Man in the Middle East" 37:30 – Surviving the 2014 Assassination Attempt 41:40 – Grassroots Change and Political Progress 43:58 – The Gaza War and Israel's Future Ready to discover why building the future requires more than simply surviving? Tune in to the full episode to hear Rabbi Yehuda Glick's remarkable story of resilience, faith, and his vision for Israel, the Temple Mount, and the generations still to come. Follow Rabbi Yehuda Glick and Help Support Amitsim Temple Mount activity WWW.ShalomJerusalem.org Amitsim WWW.Amitsim.com ---------------- Ready to experience it for yourself? Visit https://judeasamariaexperience.com/ to plan your journey to Judea and Samaria.

  4. Jul 8

    Anti-Aging Science in the Hebron Hills with Amir Kitron

    What if the plants of the Land of Israel are more than scenery—what if they are living commentary on the Torah, medicine, and the story of the Jewish people? Franny Waisman speaks with Amir Kitron, founder of Isbe Kedem/Kedem Herbs, about the powerful connection between biblical plants, the Land of Israel, and modern healing science. Amir explains how the extreme environmental stress of the southern Hebron Hills produces rare plants rich in protective compounds, which Kedem uses to develop natural cosmetics and medicinal products. The conversation explores anti-aging research, DNA protection, collagen repair, hair restoration, biblical hyssop, ancient extraction methods, mind-body healing, archaeology, tourism, and hope for Israel’s future. About The Guest: Amir Kitron is the founder of Isbe Kedem/Kedem Herbs and holds a PhD in chemical engineering. His work combines scientific research, natural medicine, biblical plants, and the unique ecology of Judea and Samaria to create plant-based healing and cosmetic products. Time Stamps: 00:00 Origins of Kedem Herbs 03:42 Desert Stress Science 06:58 Anti Aging Breakthroughs 09:20 Biblical Herbs and Hyssop 14:58 Mind Body Healing 25:30 Plants, Water, and Miracles 28:25 Land Connection and Identity 34:23 Archaeology and Psychedelics ---------------- Ready to experience it for yourself? Visit https://judeasamariaexperience.com/ to plan your journey to Judea and Samaria.

  5. Jun 29

    A Car Crash Almost Destroyed My Life with Ephraim Rimel

    Can happiness survive unimaginable loss? And what does it mean to choose faith when life no longer makes sense? In this episode of Live the Land, Franny Waisman explores the hidden beauty of Western Binyamin—a region filled with biblical history, lush forests, and some of Judea and Samaria's most remarkable natural springs. She is joined by Ephraim Rimel of Neve Tzuf (Halamish), who shares his extraordinary journey of rebuilding after a devastating car accident in 2019 that claimed the lives of his wife, Tzippi, and newborn daughter, Noam, while leaving him paralyzed and his young son critically injured. Together they discuss life in Neve Tzuf, the biblical landscape surrounding the community, raising children through tragedy, building a blended family, and why true happiness is a choice rooted in gratitude rather than circumstances. Ephraim Rimel is a resident of Neve Tzuf (Halamish) in Western Binyamin. Following the tragic loss of his wife and newborn daughter in a 2019 car accident that also left him paralyzed, Ephraim has become an inspiring voice on resilience, faith, gratitude, and rebuilding life after unimaginable tragedy. He shares practical wisdom about family, perspective, and choosing hope in the face of adversity.

  6. Jun 23

    Israel's Future Is Judea and Samaria with Natalie Sopinsky

    Would you ever hitchhike with a stranger? In Judea and Samaria, what seems dangerous to outsiders is often part of everyday life. In this episode, Franny Waisman sits down with Natalie Sopinsky to explore the realities of life in Judea and Samaria, the culture of connection that defines the region, and the life-saving work of Hatzalah Yehuda and Shomron. Franny is joined by Natalie Sopinsky, director of development for Hatzalah Yehuda veShomron and a longtime resident of Susya. Natalie shares her Aliyah story and how she unexpectedly found her home beyond the Green Line. Together, they discuss common misconceptions about Judea and Samaria, the region’s unique lifestyle, and the strong sense of community that defines everyday life there. Natalie explains how Hatzalah Yehuda veShomron was established during the Second Intifada to provide faster emergency medical response when existing services could not reach remote communities quickly enough. She shares stories from the field, discusses the logistical challenges of serving isolated areas and farms, and reflects on the heightened security reality following October 7. The conversation concludes with a discussion about courage, faith, and why Natalie believes Judea and Samaria represent a critical part of Israel’s future. About The Guest: Natalie Sopinsky is the Director of Development for Hatzalah Yehuda veShomron and a resident of Susya in the southern Hebron Hills. After making Aliyah in 2005, she built her life in Judea and Samaria and has become a passionate advocate for the region and the life-saving work of volunteer emergency responders serving its communities. Time Stamps: 00:00 Meet Natalie Sopinsky 05:39 Natalie Finds Susya 09:01 Learning to Tramp 12:08 Life Beyond Stereotypes 15:53 What Is Hatzalah 19:09 Calls That Haunt 21:07 Why Minutes Matter 21:36 Mapping Remote Rescues 22:16 Miracles on the Ambulance 23:17 Saving Lives Across Lines 24:30 October 7 Reality Check 26:50 Homefront Vigilance in Susya 30:52 Spiritual Shift and the Land 31:54 Fear, Courage, and Daily Risk 32:56 Why the Future Is Here Ready to discover what life in Judea and Samaria is really like? Tune in to the full episode to hear Natalie’s inspiring story, learn about the heroes of Hatzalah Yehuda veShomron, and gain a deeper understanding of the communities shaping Israel’s future.

  7. Jun 21

    Why Christians Are Coming to Help Israel’s Farmers With Josh Waller

    What role do ordinary people play in God’s plan for history? If redemption is already promised, do our choices still matter? In this episode of Live the Land, Franny Waisman sits down with Josh Waller, co-founder of HaYovel, to discuss his remarkable journey from farming in Tennessee to helping build agricultural communities across Judea and Samaria. Josh shares how a biblical vision inspired his family to move to Israel, support Jewish farmers, and mobilize hundreds of Christian volunteers each year. Together, they explore faith, farming, sovereignty, media narratives, and the growing partnership between Christians and Israel’s heartland communities. Josh Waller is the co-founder of HaYovel, an organization that connects Christian volunteers from around the world with Jewish farmers in Judea and Samaria. Originally from Tennessee, Josh and his family moved to Har Bracha and have spent years building relationships between Christians and Israelis through agriculture, tourism, and educational initiatives. Through HaYovel, he has helped mobilize thousands of volunteers in support of Israel’s biblical heartland. Time Stamps 00:00 Introduction: Does Human Choice Matter? 08:25 From Tennessee to Har Bracha 14:50 Building Farms Across Judea and Samaria 22:35 The Growth of Agriculture and Wine Production 30:40 Sovereignty, Security, and Israel’s Future 39:20 Media Narratives and the Information War 48:15 The Role of Christians in Supporting Israel ---------------- Ready to experience it for yourself? Visit https://judeasamariaexperience.com/ to plan your journey to Judea and Samaria.

  8. Jun 9

    After Tragedy, We Built More: The Story of Itamar with Leah and Moshe Goldsmith

    What does it take to leave everything behind, move to the hills of Samaria, and build a community from scratch? In this episode of Live the Land, Franny Waisman sits down with Leah and Moshe Goldsmith, among the founding families of Itamar, to hear the remarkable story of their journey from New York to the heartland of Israel. From living without running water and electricity to rebuilding after devastating terror attacks, the Goldsmiths share what it means to turn challenges into opportunities and remain deeply connected to the land, people, and story of Israel. Leah and Moshe Goldsmith recount their decision to leave New York and make Aliyah during the pioneering years of the settlement movement. Drawn by a deep connection to Torah, Jewish history, and the land of Israel, they helped establish Itamar when it was little more than a hilltop with generators and limited infrastructure. The conversation explores the community's growth, the challenges of pioneering life, and the profound sense of mission that sustained them. The Goldsmiths reflect on painful moments, including the murder of members of the Fogel family in a 2011 terror attack, and explain how the community chose to respond not with retreat but with renewed building and expansion. They also discuss raising children in a place shaped by both idealism and sacrifice, efforts to bridge divisions within Israeli society, and misconceptions surrounding life in Judea and Samaria. The episode concludes with practical travel recommendations and an invitation to experience the region firsthand. About The Guests Leah and Moshe Goldsmith are among the founding residents of Itamar, a community in the Shomron. After making Aliyah from New York in the 1980s, they became part of the pioneering generation that helped establish and develop communities throughout Judea and Samaria. For decades, they have been involved in community building, education, agriculture, and strengthening the connection between the Jewish people and the biblical heartland of Israel. Time Stamps 00:00 Endings Become Beginnings 02:15 Meeting Leah and Moshe Goldsmith 06:10 Leaving New York and Making Aliyah 12:30 The Early Days of Itamar 20:45 Living Without Running Water or Electricity 28:20 Yosef, Shechem, and the Biblical Heartland 37:15 Terrorism, Loss, and Community Resilience 46:40 The Fogel Family Tragedy and Rebuilding 55:30 Raising Courageous Children 1:03:10 Farms, Hilltops, and Post-Oslo Growth 1:12:00 Bridging Divides in Israeli Society 1:19:20 Responding to the "Settler Violence" Narrative 1:26:15 Travel Recommendations in Judea and Samaria 1:31:00 Final Reflections Ready to discover the stories behind Israel's modern pioneers? Tune in to the full episode to hear how one family helped build a community in the biblical heartland and why they believe every challenge can become the beginning of something new. ---------------- Ready to experience it for yourself? Visit https://judeasamariaexperience.com/ to plan your journey to Judea and Samaria.

See All (25)

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
5 Ratings

About

Live the Land is a podcast hosted by Franny Waisman, tour guide, educator, and lifelong explorer, where ancient Hebrew texts come alive through the land of Israel. Through conversations with people whose stories and spirit illuminate Israel’s past, present, and future, the show invites you into a deeper connection. Whether you are planning your next trip to Israel or seeking inspiration from afar, Live the Land is your place to journey, learn, and connect.

Information

  • Creator
    Franny Waisman
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    25
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 Franny Waisman
  • Show Website
    Live The Land

You Might Also Like