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Unholy: Two Jews on the News

Unholy: Two Jews on the News
Author: Unholy Media
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Yonit Levi of Israel's Channel 12 News and Jonathan Freedland of The Guardian are two of the most prominent journalists in the world today. They are also Jews. Each week, join what MSNBC's Rachel Maddow calls "two great, smart smart smart hosts" as they dissect and debate current events shaping Israel, Jewish life - and the wider world.
Their blend of nuanced discussion and sparkling conversation, featuring a dazzling range of guests, is why New Yorker editor David Remnick calls himself a “proud, avid listener," why Ira Glass says he "completely enjoys this show" and why Malcolm Gladwell calls it an "incredibly fun podcast".
For a weekly fix of globally informed talk – including nominations for the greatest act of chutzpah and outstanding mensch of the previous seven days – there’s only one destination. Make every Friday morning Unholy.
Contact us via: unholy@unholy-media.com
Their blend of nuanced discussion and sparkling conversation, featuring a dazzling range of guests, is why New Yorker editor David Remnick calls himself a “proud, avid listener," why Ira Glass says he "completely enjoys this show" and why Malcolm Gladwell calls it an "incredibly fun podcast".
For a weekly fix of globally informed talk – including nominations for the greatest act of chutzpah and outstanding mensch of the previous seven days – there’s only one destination. Make every Friday morning Unholy.
Contact us via: unholy@unholy-media.com
260 Episodes
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Watch us on Youtube: https://youtu.be/wwiAJvAeoN0As a ceasefire and hostage deal is signed between Israel and Hamas, Yonit and Jonathan unpack what it could mean for both sides — and for those still living with the war’s aftermath. They explore the relief and uncertainty surrounding the release of hostages, the possible political outcomes in Israel, and the fragile hopes for peace after two years of war. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Watch on Youtube: https://youtu.be/CBASX3hibmQAs we approach the two-year mark of October 7, we bring you a conversation that lays bare the human cost of what happened on that day — and in the time since. Eli Sharabi was kidnapped from his home and held hostage in Gaza for 491 days. He speaks to Yonit and Jonathan about surviving captivity, the unimaginable loss of his wife, two daughters and brother, and the strength he found to carry on. Now an advocate for those still held in Gaza, Eli reflects on the choices he made — and the quiet, relentless work of rebuilding a life. His new book, Hostage, is out now. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Yonit and Jonathan digest the terror attack which killed two British Jews at prayer during Yom Kippur services in Manchester. Where does this leave the British Jewish community - and what does it say about diaspora Jewish life in increasingly vexed times? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this emergency update, Jonathan and military affairs analyst Amos Harel discuss the recent unveiling of Donald Trump's historic peace plan. They analyze the implications of the plan for both Israel and Hamas, the complexities surrounding Netanyahu's acceptance of the deal, and the potential influence of Qatar and other Arab states. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Watch us on Youtube: https://youtu.be/QrN9l4AKLB0Meet us at Unholy Live NYC - October 29th, 2025 - https://streicker.nyc/events/unholy-liveFollow us on social media: https://linktr.ee/unholypodJoin our Patreon community to get access to bonus episodes, discounts on merch and more: https://bit.ly/UnholyPatreon As world leaders gather in Manhattan for the UN General Assembly, the message is clear: growing support for Palestinian statehood. As the diplomatic clamour gets louder, Benjamin Netanyahu prepares for his own appearance on the world stage — but not before receiving a sharp satirical blow from no other than Kyle’s mother of South Park.Meanwhile, New York hosts another drama. Mayor Eric Adams marks Rosh Hashana with a bold fashion statement, as his would-be successor Zohran Mamdani proves his social media game extends even to Hebrew pronunciation. Plus: a chutzpah award that may flatter its recipient, while this week’s mensch proved a ratings winner. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Watch us on Youtube: https://youtu.be/B2BofINE4pw As Israel’s ground operation in Gaza City escalates, Prime Minister Netanyahu briefly suggests the country must become economically self-sufficient — only to backtrack, rattling markets in the process. Meanwhile, cultural boycotts mount, from the Emmys to Eurovision.Yonit and Jonathan unpack the political spin, economic fallout, and the global cultural backlash. They’re also joined by Rabbi Angela Buchdahl for our Rosh Hashana tradition — reflecting on moral accountability in Gaza, the meaning of the High Holy Days in wartime, and the challenge of unity in a divided Jewish world.Plus: Yonit joins from Paris, where she sat down for an interview with French President Emmanuel Macron, in which he lays out his thinking on recognition of a Palestinian state — and answers the question: why now? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Watch us on Youtube: https://youtu.be/4oq27AXCEbUMeet us at Unholy Live NYC - October 29th, 2025 - https://streicker.nyc/events/unholy-liveFollow us on social media: https://linktr.ee/unholypodJoin our Patreon community to get access to bonus episodes, discounts on merch and more: https://bit.ly/UnholyPatreon In this special Unholy episode, Yonit and Jonathan are joined by former Mossad chief, Yossi Cohen. In a wide-ranging conversation, Cohen reflects on what went wrong before October 7th — and who bears responsibility. He critiques the risk-averse mindset within Israel’s security establishment and doesn’t shy away from addressing Netanyahu’s strained ties with regional leaders. From stalled Saudi normalization to the ever-present shadow of Iran, Cohen offers a rare look into the calculations behind Israel’s next moves — and whether Israel is truly prepared for what’s coming. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Watch us on Youtube: https://youtu.be/Teq1Qe9EEyMMeet us at Unholy Live NYC - October 29th, 2025 - https://streicker.nyc/events/unholy-liveFollow us on social media: https://linktr.ee/unholypodJoin our Patreon community to get access to bonus episodes, discounts on merch and more: https://bit.ly/UnholyPatreon Order "The Traitors Circle" by Jonathan Freedland - linktr.ee/jonathanfreedlandAs America reels from the shocking assassination of the pro-Trump activist and organiser Charlie Kirk, Yonit and Jonathan assess the rising menace of political violence in the U.S. — from toxic rhetoric to loose gun laws. Meanwhile, the region is rocked by Israel’s first-ever airstrike on Qatar, raising fears of escalation and fury in the Gulf.Jonathan wears two hats this week — both co-host and guest — as he reflects on the release of his new book The Traitors Circle, which tells an astonishing true story of courage, resistance and betrayal during the Third Reich.Plus: a Chutzpah award that dominates the headlines, and a Mensch nominee whose pronunciation sparks an unexpected debate. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Yonit and Jonathan are joined by Haaretz military affairs analyst Amos Harel as they discuss Israel’s unprecedented bombing of the Hamas negotiating team in Doha. Meet us at Unholy Live NYC - October 29th, 2025 - https://streicker.nyc/events/unholy-liveFollow us on social media: https://linktr.ee/unholypodJoin our Patreon community to get access to bonus episodes, discounts on merch and more: https://bit.ly/UnholyPatreon Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Meet us at Unholy Live NYC - October 29th, 2025 - https://streicker.nyc/events/unholy-liveWatch us on Youtube: https://youtu.be/LxyLZMMobcEJoin our Patreon community to get access to bonus episodes, discounts on merch and more: https://bit.ly/UnholyPatreon On Day 700 of the war, Israel prepares for a threatened push into Gaza City — a move the IDF’s Chief of Staff warns could see the imposition of martial law on the Strip. Donald Trump claims Israel is “losing the PR war,” as a ceasefire and hostage release deal remains as elusive as ever.In a special pair of conversations, Yonit and Jonathan speak with two Israeli reservists — one refusing to return to Gaza, the other still serving — about loyalty, conscience and the cost of war.Plus: a Chutzpah award for a lawyer with an awkward past - and an MVP turned Mensch. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Meet us at Unholy Live NYC - October 29th, 2025 - https://streicker.nyc/events/unholy-liveWatch us on Youtube: https://youtu.be/BHz5D_p5upQJoin our Patreon community to get access to bonus episodes, discounts on merch and more: https://bit.ly/UnholyPatreon Follow Yonit and Jonathan on InstagramAs Israeli protesters return to the streets in force, calling for a hostage deal and an end to the war, the Israeli cabinet refuses to even discuss a partial agreement — despite earlier demanding one. At the same time, Netanyahu’s closest advisor is in Washington talking “day after” strategy, while back home, reservists are called up yet again and political priorities appear increasingly out of step with public sentiment.This week, Yonit and Jonathan reunite to assess a stalled political process, shifting American pressure, and the increasingly surreal spectacle of Haredi pilgrims preparing to fly abroad — even as they continue to avoid military service. Plus: Unholy heads to New York, and Jonathan becomes an unlikely Instagrammer. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Watch us on Youtube: https://youtu.be/xJooo1JvDqsJoin our Patreon community to get access to bonus episodes, discounts on merch and more: https://bit.ly/UnholyPatreon As part of our journey through Jewish communities around the world, we land this week in Buenos Aires — home to the largest Jewish population in Latin America. Yonit and Jonathan speak with Pablo Mendez Shiff, freelance journalist and scholar, about Argentina’s stance on Israel, and what it means to live Jewish life in today’s Argentina.Plus – we revisit two of our previous guests: Ilanit Spinner from Germany and Nomi Kaltmann from Australia, and find a moment of optimism. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Watch us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7F2anQPufbgJoin our Patreon community to get access to bonus episodes, discounts on merch and more: https://bit.ly/UnholyPatreon After ministers vote to approve the reoccupation of Gaza, tensions erupt between Israel’s political leaders and the military establishment. With senior IDF officials voicing unease, the divide between the cabinet and the high command deepens. This week, Jonathan is joined by Channel 11’s diplomatic correspondent Suleiman Maswadeh to unpack the political and military implications — and to discuss how the war is likely to shape the Arab vote in Israel’s next elections. And we continue our summer tour of the world’s Jewish communities with a focus on Australia, courtesy of a conversation with Nomi Kaltmann. Plus: “Locksgate” earns this week’s Chutzpah award, while a rare exponent of civility earns the Mensch prize Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Watch us on YouTube: https://youtu.be/-GUoFGFz0pgJoin our Patreon community to get access to bonus episodes, discounts on merch and more: https://bit.ly/UnholyPatreon Pre-order "Don't Feed the Lion" by Yonit Levi and Bianna Golodryga: https://linktr.ee/DontFeedTheLionDon't forget to follow/subscribe to your favourite podcasting platform! As Israel signals its intent to reoccupy Gaza, the public conversation around the Strip is beginning to shift — but how far, and in which direction? Meanwhile, the battle over the draft bill continues to simmer, exposing deep divisions within Israeli society. This week, Jonathan is joined by New Yorker journalist Ruth Margalit to break down the latest developments on both fronts, and to launch a new series of conversations from across the Jewish world. First up: Ilanit Spinner, a German journalist, reflects on what it means to be Jewish in Germany in 2025 — and how the war is shaping daily life far beyond Israel’s borders. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Watch us on YouTube: https://youtu.be/VCcIpEYOqr4Join our Patreon community to get access to bonus episodes, discounts on merch and more: https://bit.ly/UnholyPatreon Don't forget to follow/subscribe to your favourite podcasting platform! As the war in Gaza grinds on, a rift appears between two familiar allies: Donald Trump breaks ranks with Benjamin Netanyahu, acknowledging the scale of hunger in Gaza. Meanwhile, the UK moves to formally recognise a Palestinian state, prompting a diplomatic storm.This week, Yonit and Jonathan are joined by Haaretz’s senior military analyst Amos Harel to assess the state of negotiations, the burden borne by Israeli reservists, and the stark realities on the ground for Palestinian civilians in Gaza.Plus: a crowded field for this week’s Chutzpah and Mensch awards — and a nod to our listeners who treat Unholy as an English-language workout. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Watch us on YouTube: https://youtu.be/LjM6XrBB440Don't forget to follow/subscribe to your favourite podcasting platform!Join our Patreon community to get access to bonus episodes, discounts on merch and more: https://bit.ly/UnholyPatreonAs the war nears its 22nd month, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza deepens — with harrowing footage of children searching for food sparking growing outrage, even among Israel’s staunchest allies. Meanwhile, the Israeli government prepares to push forward a controversial draft bill, fuelling an already volatile political climate. This week, Yonit and Jonathan are joined by Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Thomas Friedman for a wide-ranging conversation on the war, Donald Trump, his thoughts on the man who would be New York mayor: Zohran Mamdani and the question everyone’s asking: is there a way out? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Watch us on YouTube: https://youtu.be/cx9UiI7PmaQDon't forget to follow/subscribe to your favourite podcasting platform!Join our Patreon community to get access to bonus episodes, discounts on merch and more: https://bit.ly/UnholyPatreon As the war in Gaza passes its 650th day, Yonit and Jonathan delve into the political and personal forces keeping the conflict going—from ceasefire talks that lead nowhere, to new revelations about Benjamin Netanyahu’s refusal to heed warnings ahead of October 7. Plus: new cracks in Israel’s ruling coalition, how criticism of the country is now coming from the American MAGA right, what’s behind the latest IDF strikes on Syria—and the return of one of Unholy’s favourite guests, the legendary Israeli journalist Ilana Dayan. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Watch us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sbqe4AWNxzEDon't forget to follow/subscribe to your favourite podcasting platform!Join our Patreon community to get access to bonus episodes, discounts on merch and more: https://bit.ly/UnholyPatreonSocial links, shop and more: https://linktr.ee/unholypodAs the war in Gaza grinds on, Yonit and Jonathan unpack the politics behind Prime Minister Netanyahu’s visit to Washington and the fragile state of ceasefire and hostage negotiations. They discuss the plan for Gaza proposed by Israel’s defence minister that has stirred trenchant opposition inside and outside the country - and the military draft bill splitting an already divided Knesset. They are also joined by Rachel Goldberg-Polin, whose son Hersh was murdered while a captive of Hamas, for a conversation about grief, belief and the future of Israel. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Join our Patreon community to get access to bonus episodes, discounts on merch and more: https://bit.ly/UnholyPatreonSocial links, shop, YouTube channel and more: https://linktr.ee/unholypod This week, Jonathan returns to the podcast as he and Yonit assess the public mood in Israel in the aftermath of the war with Iran, the ongoing conflict in Gaza and renewed talk of a potential ceasefire.They also discuss the political fallout at home and abroad —including a moment at the Glastonbury music festival that saw a collision of protest and prejudice. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Join our Patreon community to get access to bonus episodes, discounts on merch and more: https://bit.ly/UnholyPatreonSocial links, shop, YouTube channel and more: https://linktr.ee/unholypod As the dust settles from the war between Israel and Iran, Yonit sits down with Nuseir Yassin to unpack what just happened—and what it all means. From shifting regional power dynamics to the role of social media in shaping global narratives, they go deep on war, peace, and the politics of perception.They also touch on the democratic mayoral elections in New York, the conflicts elsewhere that could either ignite or resolve in the coming years, and—above all—ask what future the region might still have. Is there room for cautious optimism, or are we simply bracing for the next round? Nuseir Yassin is a Palestinian‑Israeli video creator and entrepreneur best known as Nas Daily, the one‑minute daily vlogging phenomenon. Born in Arraba, Israel, he earned a Harvard degree in economics (with a minor in CS), then quit his Venmo software job in 2016 to launch a 1,000‑day video run that earned him over 13 million YouTube subscribers and billions of views. He’s since founded Nas Company—home to Nas Studios and Nas Academy—building a global creator ecosystem grounded in storytelling and cultural understanding . Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
llook at thr hamds and faces of so callef hungry philistines...they are fat ..greedy..lazy...yes they want amazing usrarli food for free ...ehem....retards
tzav9 we stand with israel ...
congratulations! mazzal tov from Iran
congratulations to Israel well-desereved, bold victory of light over darkness
A huge thank-you for bringing us the wisdom of Simon Schama. I hung on every word. The world needs more of him ... in podcasts, writings, television, whatever etc., etc. Please bring him back again.
I can only imagine the deception