New policy changes at Columbia University come in response to revoked federal funding due to insufficient protections for Jewish students, with the debate centering around balancing academic freedom and combating antisemitism. The episode features a discussion with Dr. Laura Shaw Frank on ensuring campuses are safe for Jewish students while respecting free speech and exploring the implications of such governmental funding actions.

Rabbi Andrew Baker discusses the complex relationship between Ireland and Israel, marked by antisemitic rhetoric and diplomatic tensions. Ireland's recent adoption of the IHRA working definition of antisemitism is juxtaposed with incidences of antisemitic behavior and legislation affecting the small Jewish community in Ireland.

Survivor Shoshan Haran provides a poignant account of her family's abduction during an October 2023 Hamas terror attack on Kibbutz Be'eri and their subsequent captivity in Gaza. Her story requests international action to secure the release of the remaining hostages and highlights the need for unity among Jewish communities worldwide, raising serious reflections on the aftermath of the attack.

MIT scientists Or Hen and Ernest Fraenkel discuss how their Kalaniyot Foundation aims to counteract the negative impacts of academic boycotts against Israel by fostering collaboration between Israeli and American scholars. They highlight initiatives to normalize Israeli presence in academia and emphasize how maintaining these partnerships is crucial for scientific progress and innovation.

Steve Witkoff, U.S. Special Envoy to the Middle East, discusses strategies for Gaza reconstruction and the broader Middle Eastern diplomatic efforts, including the impact of the Abraham Accords and regional shifts. Witkoff emphasizes the need for a long-term plan for Gaza, excluding Hamas from governance, to foster stability and integration between Israel and the Arab world.

Germany's far-right party, AfD, has doubled its support and become increasingly popular despite their radical stance, challenging the historical trend of declining votes for such parties. Christian Democrat leader Friedrich Merz is expected to form the next government, emphasizing Germany's complex relationship with Israel and the rise of populism underlying concerns for the Jewish community.

Jewish students Evan Cohen and Daniel Solomon discuss their personal experiences with antisemitism on college campuses, reflecting alarming trends highlighted by the AJC's State of Antisemitism in America 2024 Report. The episode underscores the manifestations of antisemitism from both far-left anti-Israel sentiments and far-right hate, as well as the critical importance of maintaining Jewish community presence and support on campuses.

University of Michigan Regent Jordan Acker shares his family's personal experience with antisemitic attacks that were part of broader targeting against Jews, particularly in the context of campus protests linked to anti-Israel sentiments. He highlights the urgent need for dialogue and understanding between diverse perspectives while criticizing the faculty's inadequate response to growing antisemitism on campus.

Donald Trump's proposal for the U.S. to take control of Gaza has sparked debate, appearing both innovative and unfeasible. Jason Isaacson from AJC discusses the potential implications on the ground and the broader geopolitical landscape, including impacts on hostages and regional peace efforts.

Rabbi Elliot Cosgrove discusses the dual challenges Jewish communities face in balancing the need for Israel's self-defense with empathy towards those suffering in Gaza. He emphasizes the historical role of empathy in Jewish identity, draws parallels with the biblical story of Esther, and shares insights from his spiritual journey and pastoral work.

Allan Novak shares the remarkable tale of his family, the world's oldest Holocaust survivor siblings, and their optimistic resilience through harrowing times, culminating in a documentary capturing their survival. The podcast delves into family dynamics, their ability to maintain positivity despite immense loss, and the lasting impact of their experiences on future generations.

Amid the release of Israeli hostages from Gaza, Julie Fishman Rayman discusses the intricacies of the hostage negotiations and the broader implications on Israel and Middle East policies. The episode also delves into the political dynamics of the Trump administration taking credit for the hostage deal initially brokered under Biden, and the collective trauma experienced by Israeli society.

Israel and Hamas have reached a complex agreement to release hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners, which involves several phases and could significantly impact the political climate in Israel. This deal, intended to reunite families after 467 days, carries both emotional weight and potential political ramifications, with tensions running high among affected families and the Israeli public.

David Modigliani delves into his family's history in 1930s Italy, uncovering their escape from rising fascism and antisemitism, bringing their story to life through a podcast narrated by Stanley Tucci. Modigliani's investigation reveals hidden documents and personal stories, highlighting historical parallels with current global issues.

Gov. Josh Shapiro discusses his commitment to combating antisemitism and building strong, diverse communities in Pennsylvania in a conversation with AJC CEO Ted Deutch. They emphasize the importance of bipartisan support in fighting antisemitism and highlight the need for moral clarity and unity in addressing hate and bigotry across political lines.

Dr. Mijal Bitton explores the significance of Jewish identity, pride, and the complexities of Sephardic heritage, particularly in the context of recent global events impacting Jewish solidarity. She emphasizes the need for deeper understanding and literacy of Jewish history to advocate effectively amid rising antisemitism and to foster diverse, meaningful interfaith relationships.

Bishop Joseph Bambera and the AJC launch a significant Catholic-Jewish initiative, "Translate Hate: The Catholic Edition," aiming to enhance dialogue and combat antisemitism through a Catholic lens. The initiative follows nearly six decades of improved Catholic-Jewish relations since the Nostra Aetate declaration, emphasizing the importance of addressing antisemitism amid ongoing challenges.

Philosopher Bernard-Henri Lévy and AJC CEO Ted Deutch discuss the current state and future resilience of the Jewish community in light of rising global antisemitism and political challenges. They emphasize the importance of unity, strength, and advocacy across communities to combat loneliness and pursue shared values.

The episode discusses potential developments for the Abraham Accords under a second Trump administration, exploring the opportunities and challenges for expanding these agreements. With insights from Rob Greenway, the episode addresses the geopolitical dynamics in the Middle East, particularly focusing on Iran's influence and the economic potential of regional integration.

Lone soldiers Kerren Seidner and Nate LeRoy share their experiences serving in the IDF without family in Israel and highlight the support they receive from organizations like Ach Gadol, which provides mentorship. They discuss the challenges of adjusting to military life and Israeli society while emphasizing the importance of community support, especially during holidays.