Unapologetically Jewish

Unapologetically Jewish
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Welcome to the Unapologetically Jewish Podcast — where Jewish identity, truth, resilience, and courage take center stage. Hosted by Matthew Taub, this podcast tackles the issues others avoid: rising antisemitism, media narratives, public safety, Jewish pride, Israel, advocacy, politics, culture, recovery, resilience, and the future of Jewish life in Canada and beyond. Through raw conversations, powerful interviews, investigative discussions, and unapologetic commentary, the podcast brings together activists, journalists, politicians, survivors, community leaders, creators, and everyday voices

Episodes

  1. Aug 11

    The Unfiltered View - Truth, media framing, & anti-Israel sentiment in Canada. Ellis, Taub, Lascaris

    This episode is a polarized debate on truth, media language, and how the Israel Hamas war is shaping Canadian Jewish life. Host Israel Ellis is joined by Matthew Taub, founder of Unapologetically Jewish, and Dimitri Lascaris, a lawyer and pro Palestinian anti war activist, for a high conflict conversation about October 7, Gaza, Canadian protests, and whether anti-Israel activism crosses into antisemitism.What happens when two people with fundamentally different views sit down to debate truth, evidence, Israel, Gaza, antisemitism, and the narratives shaping public opinion?This wide-ranging conversation explores some of the most difficult and contentious issues surrounding the Israel-Gaza conflict and its impact far beyond the Middle East. From media language and competing versions of events to October 7, Gaza, international law, anti-Zionism, antisemitism, protests, and the growing tensions facing Jewish communities in Canada, very little is left off the table.At the centre of the discussion is a larger question: How do we determine what is true when eyewitness accounts, media reports, political narratives, historical interpretations, and legal arguments collide?Matthew Taub and Dimitri Lascaris approach these questions from very different perspectives, challenging one another on evidence, assumptions, terminology, responsibility, and where political criticism ends and something more dangerous begins.This is not a conversation built around agreement. It is a debate about competing narratives, difficult questions, and what happens when two opposing worldviews are put across the table from one another.**Timestamps**00:00 - Opening clash01:58 - Introductions06:12 - What is truth?08:21 - Media language and terminology14:46 - Media and the Gaza narrative16:32 - South Lebanon and the West Bank20:06 - Gaza and civilian infrastructure23:43 - Hospitals, schools and military claims28:23 - Gaza, Hamas and the 2005 withdrawal31:28 - October 737:32 - Evidence and competing claims39:01 - Casualties and combatants44:47 - Terrorism, states and international law47:36 - Anti-Zionism and antisemitism60:01 - Jewish identity and public hostility62:10 - Identifying IDF soldiers in Canada68:40 - Synagogues and targeting concerns72:43 - Antisemitism in Canada74:21 - Security and Jewish institutions84:18 - Israel, Gaza and rising hostility86:22 - Where criticism crosses the line94:06 - Closing arguments

  2. Aug 11

    Challenging Islamaphobia - Islamophobia Cannot Be a Shield Against Criticism of Islamism

    Summary In this episode, Matthew Taub discusses the importance of scrutinizing Islamist political ideologies, the dangers of conflating anti-Zionism with anti-Semitism, and the lessons from historical examples of Islamist movements. He emphasizes the need for open debate and understanding the ideological roots of anti-Semitism to effectively combat it. Key Topics The distinction between Islamism and Islam The ideological roots of anti-Semitism within Islamist movements The dangers of conflating anti-Zionism with anti-Semitism Historical examples: Iran 1979, Gaza, Egypt Arab Spring The importance of free speech and open debate in democracy Takeaways Opposing Islamism is a political disagreement, not Islamophobia. Islamist anti-Semitism is a real and present danger. Shared enemies do not mean shared values. Criticism of Hamas and its ideology is not Islamophobia. Understanding the ideological roots of anti-Semitism is crucial to fighting Jew hate. Chapters 00:00 Introduction: Addressing Islamophobia and Political Disagreement 01:55 Defining Islamism and Its Difference from Islam 03:50 The Roots of Anti-Semitism in Islamist Ideology 05:50 Hamas, the Muslim Brotherhood, and Anti-Semitic Rhetoric 07:49 The Post-October 7th Shift: Zionism and Anti-Semitism 10:11 Anti-Zionism vs Anti-Semitism: Clarifying the Difference 12:12 Historical Lessons: Iran 1979 and the Danger of Shared Enemies 14:10 Gaza: Hamas' Repression and Political Power 16:06 The Arab Spring in Egypt: Shared Enemies and Divergent Visions

  3. Jul 18

    Political Commentator Eyal Jakoby - Political polarization and societal division

    In this episode, Eyal Yakoby shares his insights on anti-Semitism, the state of political discourse, and the importance of resilience and unity in facing societal challenges. We explore the systemic issues in academia, media manipulation, and the need for a proactive approach to safeguarding Western values. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Activism and Anti-Semitism 02:34 The Impact of October 7th 05:17 The Evolution of Anti-Semitism on Campus 08:24 The Role of Education in Shaping Perspectives 11:26 Understanding Jew Hate vs. Anti-Semitism 14:03 Coalitions and Political Dynamics 16:42 The Red-Green Alliance and Its Implications 19:29 The Influence of New Media 22:18 The Future of Canadian-American Relations 25:26 The Importance of Work Ethic and Personal Responsibility Takeaways Systemic anti-Semitism predates October 7th and is ongoing. Media and online ecosystems have been hijacked, leading to misinformation. Unity and coalition-building are essential to combat societal division. The importance of questioning mainstream narratives and media. The need for proactive education and resilience to safeguard Western values.

  4. Jul 9

    Deputy Leader of the Opposition Melissa Lantsman

    In this episode, Melissa Lansman, Member of Parliament for Thornhill, shares her journey from immigrant roots to political leadership, discusses the importance of fighting for Canada, and explores the challenges and responsibilities of being a Jewish politician in Canada today. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Melissa Lansman 01:39 Melissa's Background and Values 04:35 The Importance of Staying in Canada 08:09 Challenges of Being a Jewish Politician 11:11 Community Engagement and Political Responsibility 16:49 The Future of Young Canadians in Politics 20:40 Call to Action for Canadians 22:15 Reflections on Legacy and Impact

    Deputy Leader of the Opposition Melissa Lantsman

  5. Jul 9

    Eitan Chitayat - The Power of Narrative in Jewish Advocacy

    In this episode, Matthew Taub interviews I'm That Jew, Eitan Chitayat about his journey as a Jewish advocate, the importance of narrative in fighting anti-Semitism, and strategies to strengthen Jewish identity and Zionism worldwide. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Aitan Chitayat and His Work 01:35 Aitan's Background and Jewish Advocacy 04:34 The Birth of 'I'm That Jew' Movement 06:56 Empowerment Through Jewish Identity 08:15 The Walk for Israel: Solidarity and Identity 10:18 Global Perspectives on Anti-Semitism 15:05 The Importance of Narrative in Jewish Advocacy 18:44 Future Directions for Jewish Advocacy 23:28 Understanding Zionism: A New Perspective 25:16 The Evolution of Jewish Identity and Zionism 26:51 The Importance of Language in Defining Zionism 29:34 Owning the Narrative: The Responsibility of the Jewish Community 32:51 The Role of Words in Shaping Identity 35:36 The Legacy of Jewish Identity and Community 39:33 Collaboration and Respect Among Jewish Voices I'm That Jew Zionism. Imagine hating a word people can't even define

    Eitan Chitayat - The Power of Narrative in Jewish Advocacy

  6. Jul 9

    John Spencer - Debunking Genocide Claims in the Israel-Hamas Conflict

    In this episode, John Spencer, an expert on urban warfare and retired U.S. Army officer, discusses the complexities of urban warfare, the misuse of the term 'genocide,' and the importance of understanding the facts and context behind civilian casualties in Gaza and Israel. Urban warfare challenges in Gaza Legal definition and misuse of 'genocide' Civilian vs. combatant casualties Israel's military tactics and civilian protection The impact of misinformation and propaganda in war Chapters 00:00 Understanding Genocide: Definitions and Misuse 05:32 Civilian Casualties: The Numbers Game 11:37 Urban Warfare: Challenges and Strategies 17:18 The Role of Media in Shaping Perceptions 23:09 The Ethics of Warfare: Intent vs. Impact 28:52 Fighting for Truth: The Challenge Ahead

    John Spencer - Debunking Genocide Claims in the Israel-Hamas Conflict

  7. May 29

    Juno News Reporter Melanie Bennett

    In this episode, Melanie Bennett from Juno News discusses her investigative work on the Muslim Brotherhood, the MAC conference, and the ideological threats to Western society. She highlights the importance of awareness and education in countering extremist movements. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Investigative Journalism 01:38 Experiences at the MAC Conference 03:42 Understanding the Ummah and Its Significance 06:47 The Muslim Brotherhood: Ideology and Influence 09:52 Soft Jihad and Its Implications 12:41 The Challenge of Education and Awareness 15:15 The Future of Western Society 17:33 The Role of Journalism in Society 24:59 Call to Action and Conclusion

    Juno News Reporter Melanie Bennett

  8. May 25

    #4 Israeli Ambassador Iddo Moed

    In this powerful episode of the Unapologetically Jewish Podcast, Matthew Taub sits down with His Excellency Ambassador Iddo Moed, Israel’s Ambassador to Canada, for an honest and urgent conversation about antisemitism, Canada-Israel relations, rising extremism, diaspora Jewish identity, and the future of democratic values in the West. Ambassador Moed speaks candidly about the misconceptions surrounding Israel, the strain in political relations between Canada and Israel, the growing threat posed by violent fundamentalism, and why Jews — and all Canadians — must stand up and take action before democratic values are eroded. This conversation goes beyond politics. It is about identity, courage, allyship, and what it means to defend freedom in a time of rising hatred and polarization. Topics include: The biggest misconceptions about IsraelCanada-Israel relations todayAntisemitism in CanadaThe role of the Jewish diasporaIran and regional instabilityStanding up against hateWhy silence is dangerousBuilding alliances and protecting democratic valuesThe future of Canada and Israel togetherIf you believe in standing against hate, defending democratic values, and building a stronger future, make sure to subscribe, like, and share this episode.

    #4 Israeli Ambassador Iddo Moed

  9. May 10

    Unpologetically Jewish - Casey Babb

    Casey Babb, director of The Promised Land at the McDonnell-Laurier Institute, discusses the challenges facing Western democracies, anti-Semitism, and the importance of Jewish activism. He shares strategies for raising awareness, combating extremism, and strengthening Jewish identity in a complex global landscape. key topics The role of The Promised Land program in combating anti-Semitism Strategies for raising awareness about extremism The impact of October 7th on Jewish activism The importance of Jewish identity and pride Challenges faced by large Jewish organizations in modern advocacy Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Casey Babb and The Promised Land 02:55 The Promise of Canada and Combating Anti-Semitism 05:56 Strategies for Addressing Anti-Semitism 08:53 The Role of Organizations in Jewish Advocacy 12:13 Grassroots Movements and New Era of Jewish Activism 15:08 The Muslim Brotherhood and Ideological Challenges 18:00 The Importance of Jewish Identity and Tradition 24:06 The Need for Honest Conversations and Action 30:00 Understanding Anti-Zionism and Its Implications

    Unpologetically Jewish - Casey Babb

  10. May 7

    Unapologetically Jewish - Brad Bradford

    In this insightful interview, Toronto mayoral candidate Brad Bradford shares his vision for the city's future, addressing key issues like safety, transit, and community unity. Discover his strategies for course correction and how he plans to make Toronto a city of pride and opportunity. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Future of Toronto 03:09 Brad Bradford's Vision for Toronto 06:01 Addressing the Three C's: Crime, Congestion, and Cost of Living 08:49 Transit Challenges and Solutions 12:05 Combating Hate and Ensuring Safety for All 17:54 Civic Engagement and Community Involvement 22:12 A Vision for Unity and Tolerance in Toronto

    Unapologetically Jewish - Brad Bradford

  11. May 7

    Unaplogetically Jewish - Jesse Brown

    Summary Jesse Brown of CanadaLand discusses the rise of antisemitism in Canada post-October 7th, sharing insights from his investigative podcast 'What is Happening Here?' and conversations with various community leaders and activists. This episode explores the evolving threats to Jewish communities, the role of citizen journalism, and the broader political and social implications. Key Topics Rise of anti-Semitism in Canada Role of citizen journalism in documenting hate Conversations with anti-Zionist activists and community leaders Impact of political movements on Jewish safety Broader social and political implications of recent events Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Conversation 01:03 Exploring the Podcast: 'What is Happening Here?' 02:31 Investigating Anti-Semitism in Canada 03:25 Building Trust with Interviewees 05:13 Conversations with Anti-Zionist Voices 07:13 Understanding Protest Dynamics 11:03 The Role of Citizen Journalism 12:35 Accountability in Public Discourse 19:17 Interviewing David Meslin 23:03 The Complexity of Anti-Zionism vs Anti-Semitism 26:38 The Future of Anti-Semitism and Jewish Identity

    Unaplogetically Jewish - Jesse Brown
  • 11 Episodes

About

Welcome to the Unapologetically Jewish Podcast — where Jewish identity, truth, resilience, and courage take center stage. Hosted by Matthew Taub, this podcast tackles the issues others avoid: rising antisemitism, media narratives, public safety, Jewish pride, Israel, advocacy, politics, culture, recovery, resilience, and the future of Jewish life in Canada and beyond. Through raw conversations, powerful interviews, investigative discussions, and unapologetic commentary, the podcast brings together activists, journalists, politicians, survivors, community leaders, creators, and everyday voices

Information

  • Creator
    Unapologetically Jewish
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    11
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Unapologetically Jewish