Inside Israel with Joel Chasnoff

In this milestone episode of Inside Israel, I sit down with Professor Dan Ben-David of Tel Aviv University and the Shoresh Institute to tackle a big question: What will Israel look like in 40 years—or will it even be here as we know it? Rather than relying on emotions, this conversation dives into hard data—demographics, statistics, and facts—to explore the realistic scenarios for Israel’s future.And just a quick note: our Inside Israel fundraiser is underway. If you haven’t had a chance to support yet, now’s the time! Check the link below.---------------Support Inside Israel: ContributeBook Joel during his fall 2025 lecture and comedy tour: www.joelchasnoff.comTo learn more about Inside Israel, and to submit a question for Joel to answer on-air, visit www.joelchasnoff.com/podcast Sign up for Joel’s newsletter, Hebrew Is Magic: www.joelchasnoff.comJoel’s tour schedule: www.joelchasnoff.com/showsJoel on Instagram: @joelchasnoff Israel 201, co-authored by Joel and Benji Lovitt and Winner of the 2023 National Jewish Book Award: www.joelchasnoff.com/books Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Joel takes you inside Parents’ Night at his child’s high school. From a principal who criticized the Ministry of Education and drew applause, to a homeroom teacher who explained he may be absent over the next few weeks due to being called up for his fifth round of IDF reserve duty, to a photo montage at the school entrance honoring recent graduates who’ve fallen in Gaza since October 7—these are the tiny details of Israeli life that reflect the reality of the country today. Joel also explores why, despite this school’s strengths, the broader education system faces deep challenges. Plus: the annual Inside Israel fundraiser kicks off at joelchasnoff.com.----------------------------Support Inside Israel: ContributeBook Joel during his fall 2025 lecture and comedy tour: www.joelchasnoff.comTo learn more about Inside Israel, and to submit a question for Joel to answer on-air, visit www.joelchasnoff.com/podcast Sign up for Joel’s newsletter, Hebrew Is Magic: www.joelchasnoff.comJoel’s tour schedule: www.joelchasnoff.com/showsJoel on Instagram: @joelchasnoff Israel 201, co-authored by Joel and Benji Lovitt and Winner of the 2023 National Jewish Book Award: www.joelchasnoff.com/books Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this week’s episode of Inside Israel, I talk about what it’s like teaching my 18-year-old daughter to drive here. In Israel, even after passing the driving test, new drivers must spend three months with a licensed adult beside them. Which means I’ve been in the passenger seat a lot lately.But here’s the twist: the advice I give her in Israel is very different from what I would say if she were learning in the U.S. Because driving here isn’t just about steering and signaling—it’s about navigating a culture where drivers behave in their own… unique way.I’ll share what I’ve learned from being her co-pilot, and what these lessons reveal about life on Israeli roads.---------------Support Inside Israel: ContributeBook Joel during his fall 2025 lecture and comedy tour: www.joelchasnoff.comTo learn more about Inside Israel, and to submit a question for Joel to answer on-air, visit www.joelchasnoff.com/podcast Sign up for Joel’s newsletter, Hebrew Is Magic: www.joelchasnoff.comJoel’s tour schedule: www.joelchasnoff.com/showsJoel on Instagram: @joelchasnoff Israel 201, co-authored by Joel and Benji Lovitt and Winner of the 2023 National Jewish Book Award: www.joelchasnoff.com/books Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The news out of Israel can often feel heavy, and the Inside Israel podcast is no exception. But this week, for a change, Joel brings you something different: genuinely positive Israel-related news, inspired by his recent trips overseas to Cyprus and the US (yes, really!).And as always, Joel takes time to answer listener questions.---------------Support Inside Israel: ContributeBook Joel during his fall 2025 lecture and comedy tour: www.joelchasnoff.comTo learn more about Inside Israel, and to submit a question for Joel to answer on-air, visit www.joelchasnoff.com/podcast Sign up for Joel’s newsletter, Hebrew Is Magic: www.joelchasnoff.comJoel’s tour schedule: www.joelchasnoff.com/showsJoel on Instagram: @joelchasnoff Israel 201, co-authored by Joel and Benji Lovitt and Winner of the 2023 National Jewish Book Award: www.joelchasnoff.com/books Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Back when I was a lone soldier in the IDF, most Israelis had never even heard the term “lone soldier,” let alone understood who we were or what we were doing there.That changed in the summer of 2006, when Michael Levin z”l, a lone soldier from Philadelphia, was killed in Lebanon.On today’s episode of Inside Israel, I sit down with Michael’s mother, Harriet Levin, to talk about her son’s legacy and the work she and her husband, Mark, continue through the Michael Levin Lone Soldier Foundation in his memory.---------------Support Inside Israel: ContributeBook Joel during his fall 2025 lecture and comedy tour: www.joelchasnoff.comTo learn more about Inside Israel, and to submit a question for Joel to answer on-air, visit www.joelchasnoff.com/podcast Sign up for Joel’s newsletter, Hebrew Is Magic: www.joelchasnoff.comJoel’s tour schedule: www.joelchasnoff.com/showsJoel on Instagram: @joelchasnoff Israel 201, co-authored by Joel and Benji Lovitt and Winner of the 2023 National Jewish Book Award: www.joelchasnoff.com/books Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week marks 19 years since the death of Michael Levin z”l, the lone soldier from Philadelphia who fell in the 2006 Lebanon War. Ahead of next week’s special conversation with Michael’s mother, Harriet Levin, I take a closer look at the reality of lone soldiers in Israel today. From surprising statistics—like the fact that half of the IDF’s 7,000 lone soldiers were born and raised in Israel—to the challenges they face, I’ll share key insights you need to know about this important part of Israeli society.---------------Support Inside Israel: ContributeBook Joel during his fall 2025 lecture and comedy tour: www.joelchasnoff.comTo learn more about Inside Israel, and to submit a question for Joel to answer on-air, visit www.joelchasnoff.com/podcast Sign up for Joel’s newsletter, Hebrew Is Magic: www.joelchasnoff.comJoel’s tour schedule: www.joelchasnoff.com/showsJoel on Instagram: @joelchasnoff Israel 201, co-authored by Joel and Benji Lovitt and Winner of the 2023 National Jewish Book Award: www.joelchasnoff.com/books Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As we approach the two-year mark since October 7, 2023, it's time to take a hard look at the war in Gaza—and how we got here. In this episode, I revisit the goals we were told would guide the war effort, and the assumptions behind them. I also share personal conversations I’ve had with various Israelis about the war, explore shifting public sentiment in Israel, and examine how the world now sees us. From military strategy to the war narrative to the question of a Palestinian state, I’ll attempt to change your perspective on what Israel needs to do next. Because if we’re serious about protecting Israel’s future, we have to be willing to rethink everything—even the things we once thought were sacred.---------------Support Inside Israel: ContributeBook Joel during his fall 2025 lecture and comedy tour: www.joelchasnoff.comTo learn more about Inside Israel, and to submit a question for Joel to answer on-air, visit www.joelchasnoff.com/podcast Sign up for Joel’s newsletter, Hebrew Is Magic: www.joelchasnoff.comJoel’s tour schedule: www.joelchasnoff.com/showsJoel on Instagram: @joelchasnoff Israel 201, co-authored by Joel and Benji Lovitt and Winner of the 2023 National Jewish Book Award: www.joelchasnoff.com/books Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In everyday Hebrew, chinam means “free.”But as we approach Tisha B’Av—the day we mourn the destruction of the Temple—chinam takes on a darker meaning.Our sages say the Temple was destroyed because of sin’at chinam, which I translate as “hatred without cost.” In today’s episode, I’ll speak about the current divisions in Israeli society and why these very divisions are the greatest threat to Israel’s existence – far greater than that posed by Hamas, Hezbollah, or even Iran. I’ll also offer reasons for hope. And, as always, I answer listener questions.---------------Book Joel during his fall 2025 lecture and comedy tour: www.joelchasnoff.comSupport Inside Israel: ContributeTo learn more about Inside Israel, and to submit a question for Joel to answer on-air, visit www.joelchasnoff.com/podcast Sign up for Joel’s newsletter, Hebrew Is Magic: www.joelchasnoff.comJoel’s tour schedule: www.joelchasnoff.com/showsJoel on Instagram: @joelchasnoff Israel 201, co-authored by Joel and Benji Lovitt and Winner of the 2023 National Jewish Book Award: www.joelchasnoff.com/books Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on Inside Israel, listener reactions pour in after last episode’s revelations about FIDF. Joel responds to powerful messages—from outrage over donor betrayal to personal stories of involvement—and explains why, despite his own concerns, he didn’t blow the whistle himself.Plus: A deep dive into one of Israel’s most remarkable systems—the emergency response network. Why does Israel have no government budget for ambulances? The answer reveals a uniquely Israeli combination of volunteerism, resilience, and public trust.Also in this episode: soldiers jailed for refusing another round in Gaza, hostage talks stall again, and disturbing anti-Israel attacks in Europe leave many Jews wondering how visible they can afford to be.And finally, a bittersweet goodbye to our podcast editor, Adina—and a warm welcome to our new one, Yael.---------------Book Joel during his fall 2025 lecture and comedy tour: www.joelchasnoff.comSupport Inside Israel: ContributeTo learn more about Inside Israel, and to submit a question for Joel to answer on-air, visit www.joelchasnoff.com/podcast Sign up for Joel’s newsletter, Hebrew Is Magic: www.joelchasnoff.comJoel’s tour schedule: www.joelchasnoff.com/showsJoel on Instagram: @joelchasnoff Israel 201, co-authored by Joel and Benji Lovitt and Winner of the 2023 National Jewish Book Award: www.joelchasnoff.com/books Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Turmoil at FIDFToday’s episode is dedicated to the memory of Ari Loren, z’’l. Ari, his wife Miri, and their five boys have been dear friends of ours since our Carmel Academy days, back when we lived in Westchester, NY. Ari was one of the most passionate Zionists I’ve ever known—so much so that he and Miri chose to be the lead sponsors of my recent book, Israel 201, which I co-wrote with Benji Lovitt. I’m deeply grateful—for their support, and even more so for the privilege of knowing Ari.May his memory be a blessing.----------In this episode of Inside Israel, I talk about recent troubling revelations about Friends of the IDF (FIDF)—including misleading messaging, misuse of funds, and a lack of transparency around where your donations actually go. I’m not here to tell you whether to give or not. But if you’ve ever supported FIDF—or considered it—you deserve to know what’s going on. I’ll share what’s been reported, what I’ve personally seen as a longtime host for the organization, and how you can make informed choices moving forward.And as always, I’ll answer your questions. ---------------Book Joel during his fall 2025 lecture and comedy tour: www.joelchasnoff.comSupport Inside Israel: ContributeTo learn more about Inside Israel, and to submit a question for Joel to answer on-air, visit www.joelchasnoff.com/podcast Sign up for Joel’s newsletter, Hebrew Is Magic: www.joelchasnoff.comJoel’s tour schedule: www.joelchasnoff.com/showsJoel on Instagram: @joelchasnoff Israel 201, co-authored by Joel and Benji Lovitt and Winner of the 2023 National Jewish Book Award: www.joelchasnoff.com/books Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Two weeks ago, seven Israeli soldiers were killed in Gaza in what first seemed like a tragic, one-in-a-million accident. But new details reveal a painful truth: this wasn’t random bad luck—it was preventable.In this episode, I break down what really happened, what it says about the Israeli army and mindset, and why this human, flawed side of the IDF is rarely talked about. It’s an aspect of the IDF that has led to the death of far too many IDF soldiers in the past, and one that I witnessed firsthand when I myself was an IDF soldier in the Armored Corps.And of course, I’ll answer your questions.---------------Support Inside Israel: ContributeTo learn more about Inside Israel, and to submit a question for Joel to answer on-air, visit www.joelchasnoff.com/podcast Sign up for Joel’s newsletter, Hebrew Is Magic: www.joelchasnoff.comJoel’s tour schedule: www.joelchasnoff.com/showsJoel on Instagram: @joelchasnoff Israel 201, co-authored by Joel and Benji Lovitt and Winner of the 2023 National Jewish Book Award: www.joelchasnoff.com/books Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Joel reflects on three deeply emotional events that took place within 48 hours—attending the funeral of a fallen soldier, going to a shiva visit for another soldier killed in Gaza, and, l’havdil, attending his son’s middle school graduation ceremony in a nearby park. In Israel, the phrase l’havdil—used to separate the sacred from the mundane—isn’t just a superstition, it’s a coping mechanism. Joel explores how this strange, almost absurd linguistic habit helps Israelis navigate the emotional whiplash of daily life. And, of course, Joel answers your questions. ---------------Support Inside Israel: ContributeTo learn more about Inside Israel, and to submit a question for Joel to answer on-air, visit www.joelchasnoff.com/podcast Sign up for Joel’s newsletter, Hebrew Is Magic: www.joelchasnoff.comJoel’s tour schedule: www.joelchasnoff.com/showsJoel on Instagram: @joelchasnoff Israel 201, co-authored by Joel and Benji Lovitt and Winner of the 2023 National Jewish Book Award: www.joelchasnoff.com/books Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week's episode of Inside Israel finds the country navigating a shaky ceasefire with Iran. While the war is officially "over," the conversation here is anything but. Today, I'll explore two deeply conflicting narratives: Was this war a decisive victory, setting back Iran's nuclear program for years and embarrassing them globally? Or were Israelis "played," with heavy sacrifices – 13 dead, 10,000 families homeless, and a crippled economy – for a temporary reprieve, leaving critical questions about Gaza hostages and soldiers' deaths unanswered?We'll talk about the the unspoken consequences, too: the shattered faith in Iron Dome, the disruption to daily life, and the emotional toll on a nation. I'll also share a bit about my personal experience of economic impact, providing a candid look at life on the ground. Plus, listener questions tackle everything from NYC mayoral politics to the global understanding of the conflict. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on Inside Israel: as the conflict intensifies following the US attack on Fordo, Joel shares what Israelis are really saying about "Operation Rising Lion" and Bibi's role. We’ll talk about Iran's new, disturbing retaliation tactics and the true human cost: 10,000 displaced families and the growing national exhaustion. In attacking Iran, Israel is doing the world a favor. So why don’t more Americans see it that way? We’ll talk about that too, plus, listener questions answered.---------------Support Inside Israel: ContributeTo learn more about Inside Israel, and to submit a question for Joel to answer on-air, visit www.joelchasnoff.com/podcast Sign up for Joel’s newsletter, Hebrew Is Magic: www.joelchasnoff.comJoel’s tour schedule: www.joelchasnoff.com/showsJoel on Instagram: @joelchasnoff Israel 201, co-authored by Joel and Benji Lovitt and Winner of the 2023 National Jewish Book Award: www.joelchasnoff.com/books Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What's it like when war begins in the dead of night? In this episode, Joel brings you a firsthand account from Israel as the conflict with Iran unfolds. From the shocking 3 AM air raid siren that marked the war's start, to what we've learned about the Mossad's role, and the heartbreaking truth behind civilian fatalities, Joel discusses it all. He'll also talk about how the rhythm of our lives has shifted to the constant anticipation of ballistic missile attacks, and why, amidst the tension, Israelis overwhelmingly agree on the necessity of this fight. As always, Joels answers your most pressing questions about this evolving situation. ---------------Support Inside Israel: ContributeTo learn more about Inside Israel, and to submit a question for Joel to answer on-air, visit www.joelchasnoff.com/podcast Sign up for Joel’s newsletter, Hebrew Is Magic: www.joelchasnoff.comJoel’s tour schedule: www.joelchasnoff.com/showsJoel on Instagram: @joelchasnoff Israel 201, co-authored by Joel and Benji Lovitt and Winner of the 2023 National Jewish Book Award: www.joelchasnoff.com/books Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Inside Israel, a casual catch-up with Joel’s American friend from college inspires a raw discussion about the current housing crisis in Israel. To the dismay of many listeners, Joel pushes back on the idea that when foreign Jews purchase property in Ra’anana, Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, and other big cities, they are “supporting” Israel. This in turn leads Joel to compare the Israeli take on what it means to sacrifice with those of Jews elsewhere. ---------------Support Inside Israel: ContributeTo learn more about Inside Israel, and to submit a question for Joel to answer on-air, visit www.joelchasnoff.com/podcast Sign up for Joel’s newsletter, Hebrew Is Magic: www.joelchasnoff.comJoel’s tour schedule: www.joelchasnoff.com/showsJoel on Instagram: @joelchasnoff Israel 201, co-authored by Joel and Benji Lovitt and Winner of the 2023 National Jewish Book Award: www.joelchasnoff.com/books Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week marks 600 days since October 7, 2023.In this episode, Joel reflects on where Israel stands—politically, morally, and emotionally—600 days into our war with Hamas. From the failure of the protest movement to rising antisemitism, from Haredi tensions to the implosion of the Israeli Left, this episode challenges what we think we know. Listener questions explore the IDF’s current ethics and allegations about Gaza.---------Support Inside Israel: ContributeTo learn more about Inside Israel, and to submit a question for Joel to answer on-air, visit www.joelchasnoff.com/podcast Sign up for Joel’s newsletter, Hebrew Is Magic: www.joelchasnoff.comJoel’s tour schedule: www.joelchasnoff.com/showsJoel on Instagram: @joelchasnoff Israel 201, co-authored by Joel and Benji Lovitt and Winner of the 2023 National Jewish Book Award: www.joelchasnoff.com/books Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On today’s episode of Inside Israel, Joel catches up on listener questions.Topics include air raid sirens, mental health support for moms, reactions to the controversial Yom Hazikaron event in Ra’anana, and more.---------------Support Inside Israel: ContributeTo learn more about Inside Israel, and to submit a question for Joel to answer on-air, visit www.joelchasnoff.com/podcast Sign up for Joel’s newsletter, Hebrew Is Magic: www.joelchasnoff.comJoel’s tour schedule: www.joelchasnoff.com/showsJoel on Instagram: @joelchasnoff Israel 201, co-authored by Joel and Benji Lovitt and Winner of the 2023 National Jewish Book Award: www.joelchasnoff.com/books Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This past Sunday was Mother’s Day in the US.In this week’s episode of Inside Israel, Joel reflects on what it’s like to be a mother in Israel today, based on anecdotal conversations he had with several moms in central Israel.The mothers he surveyed spoke about everything from the chaos of daily life in a country at war, whether their family might be better off living in Portugal, and the biggest challenge of all – finding a new cleaning lady. He also answers listener questions about Betzalel Smotrich’s vision for Gaza to how modern-day tech words are spelled in Hebrew. ---------------Support Inside Israel: ContributeTo learn more about Inside Israel, and to submit a question for Joel to answer on-air, visit www.joelchasnoff.com/podcast Sign up for Joel’s newsletter, Hebrew Is Magic: www.joelchasnoff.comJoel’s tour schedule: www.joelchasnoff.com/showsJoel on Instagram: @joelchasnoff Israel 201, co-authored by Joel and Benji Lovitt and Winner of the 2023 National Jewish Book Award: www.joelchasnoff.com/books Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Last week, right-wing Jewish Israelis staged a violent protest outside a Reform synagogue in Joel’s hometown of Ra’anana.Due to a lack of police presence, the riot spiraled out of control. Several people inside the synagogue—gathered for a joint Jewish-Palestinian Yom HaZikaron Memorial Day ceremony—were injured.While this may sound shocking to those in Western democracies, Joel explains that many Israelis actually support the rioters—and in this episode, he breaks down why.---------------Support Inside Israel: ContributeTo learn more about Inside Israel, and to submit a question for Joel to answer on-air, visit www.joelchasnoff.com/podcast Sign up for Joel’s newsletter, Hebrew Is Magic: www.joelchasnoff.comJoel’s tour schedule: www.joelchasnoff.com/showsJoel on Instagram: @joelchasnoff Israel 201, co-authored by Joel and Benji Lovitt and Winner of the 2023 National Jewish Book Award: www.joelchasnoff.com/books Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.