What Came After

Your Students Carried Us Aug 11, 2026

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For months, Yoni Heilman and I kept missing each other. When I was in Israel, Yoni was serving in reserve duty. When Yoni was available for an interview in Israel, I was back in America. Finally, this past April, we were both in New York City and managed to sit down for this conversation.

Yoni is an American-Israeli reservist and the CEO of TAMID Group, a nonprofit that fosters relationships between Israeli businesses and bright, motivated college students, as well as other emerging business leaders around the world. We talked about the many roles Yoni has found himself playing since October 7th — as an American, an Israeli, a reservist, a CEO, a parent, a partner, and someone deeply invested in the relationship between young people and Israel.

He shared why TAMID Group is so intentional about creating meaningful relationships between young people and Israel that transcend religion and politics, and what he has learned from serving in his particular reserve unit, where he has witnessed some of the very best of humanity.

I hope you enjoy this conversation.

Credits:

Host and Creator: Manya Marcus

Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick

Associate Editor and Producer: Keren Glicksman

Content Editors: Keren Glicksman and Alexandra Yelderman

Logo Design: Samuel Vilemar

Outro Music: "Not Over" | Israel Wasserman

Listen on Spotify or Apple Music

Cancer Doesn’t Stop—Even In A War Aug 03, 2026

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On March 18th of this year, I'd been back in America for a few days after getting stuck in Israel during the war with Iran. I still felt scattered, jet-lagged and wrung out. So I decided to treat myself to the ultimate comfort food: an authentic bagel.

I ran into a friend at (the kosher and delicious) Emma's Bagels in Skokie. She was sitting with a table of women I didn't know. After I explained why I looked so bedraggled, I learned they all worked for Sharsheret, an organization supporting Jewish women facing breast and ovarian cancer. One of them, Elana Silber, turned out to be the CEO — and that night, it happened, was Sharsheret's annual gala.

She invited me on the spot.

I decided to push past that not-quite-myself feeling and attend. I saw an art installation by a breast cancer survivor, heard several incredible speakers, and got a chance to hear about Sharsheret's work, which is now reaching Israel also.

Elana and I decided to meet a few months later in New York for an interview. As you'll hear, she's learned a lot about building in the aftermath of a crisis.

I hope you enjoy this episode.

Credits:

Host and Creator: Manya Marcus

Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick

Associate Editor and Producer: Keren Glicksman

Content Editors: Keren Glicksman and Alexandra Yelderman

Logo Design: Samuel Vilemar

Outro Music: "נקייה" | Anat Malamud

Listen on Spotify or Apple Music

This Project Is A Gift Jul 21, 2026

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When I first met with our guest, Dekkel Bachar, at the end of 2025, we talked about Shesek, an initiative of the Israel ParaSport Center. Shesek was designed to help rebuild the lives of Israelis. Nearly three years later, many in Israel are still grappling with its impact. Tens of thousands-- and likely many more-- are struggling with PTSD.

Since this recording, I've learned that the Israel ParaSport Center has been working even harder to provide essential support for those who are struggling with post-trauma. The Center was recently selected as one of eight organizations to lead a national rehabilitation initiative, expanding its programming to target the invisible wounds of war..

Program details will be on their website soon, and you can support their work at IsraelParaSport.org.

Credits:

Host and Creator: Manya Marcus

Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick

Associate Editor and Producer: Keren Glicksman

Content Editor: Keren Glicksman

Logo Design: Samuel Vilemar

Outro Music: "Homebound" | Elijah Aaron

Listen on ⁠Spotify⁠ or ⁠Apple Music⁠

You Need To Trust Both Love And Evil Jul 07, 2026

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In March, I was in Israel when war broke out with the Iranian regime. Since I couldn't leave the country, I wanted to make the most of the time, A mutual friend suggested I meet with Orit Gidali between missile alarms. Orit is a renowned poet and children's author. She spent an afternoon with me, against the backdrop of an active war, talking about what it means to make art in the aftermath of trauma, both personal and collective. Orit's work is riveting. You can find it at ⁠oritgidali.com⁠.

Credits:

Host and Creator: Manya Marcus

Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick

Associate Editor and Producer: Keren Glicksman

Content Editor: Alexandra Yelderman

Logo Design: Samuel Vilemar

Outro Music: "סתיו" | Anat Malamud

Listen on ⁠Spotify⁠ or ⁠Apple Music⁠

The Ink Hotel: Hezzy, Dima, and Ira Jun 30, 2026

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This is my first time back in Israel since the war with the Iranian regime. Things feel different now — and that old line about an hour being a long time in the Middle East has never felt truer. I wanted to release more of the recordings I made during the war, and being back here felt like the right moment. We've put them together into a series called Between Sirens. In this episode, you'll hear from three employees of the Ink Hotel — where I was staying when the war started. If you're in Tel Aviv, consider staying with them. They were fantastic.

Credits:

Host and Creator: Manya Marcus

Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick

Associate Editor and Producer: Keren Glicksman

Content Editor: Alexandra Yelderman

Logo Design: Samuel Vilemar

The Pool Is Our Heart Jun 22, 2026

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Last November, I spent nearly ten hours at Einot Bar, otherwise known as Ripples of Healing, which many of you may have learned about through various interviews on this show. While I was there, I met a young woman named Ellah Gotman. She was spending her day leading thirty first responders from October 7th through sound healing rituals. She had a peaceful, grounding, almost ethereal quality that she weaves beautifully into her work with Israelis who are experiencing trauma.

After our conversation, I walked the grounds of Einot Bar. I did my best with my audio equipment to bring you along. I think you'll agree: this is a very powerful place.

Credits:

Host and Creator: Manya Marcus

Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick

Associate Editor and Producer: Keren Glicksman

Content Editor: Alexandra Yelderman

Logo Design: Samuel Vilemar

Outro Music: "כלים" | Anat Malamud

Listen on Spotify or Apple Music

I Couldn’t Lose Myself Jun 17, 2026

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I sat down with Samantha Robinson in Jerusalem in February 2026 — weeks before any of us knew that a second war with the Iranian regime was on the horizon. Sam is the Director of Community Resilience and Development at the Jewish Agency, where she’s part of JReady⁠, the Agency's global initiative for emergency preparedness and community rehabilitation. It was a role she held before October 7th — and one that became even more critical afterward. We spoke about what that work looks like from the inside, about life as the wife of a reservist who has spent hundreds of days on the battlefield while she holds down her rigorous job and as well as the homefront, complete with her four children. Sam and I also talked about the neighborhood pub and concert venue she and her husband spearheaded during Covid — and why they continued to operate it in the aftermath of October 7th.

Credits:

Host and Creator: Manya Marcus

Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick

Associate Editor and Producer: Keren Glicksman

Content Editor: Alexandra Yelderman

Logo Design: Samuel Vilemar

Outro Music: "EVERGREEN" | Ziv Moran

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You Know Why, And You Continue Jun 08, 2026

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In November 2025, I sat down with Israeli military photographer Oren Cohen in Jerusalem. Oren's book, 06:29 — named for the moment the Hamas onslaught began — is the most powerful photojournalism collection I've seen on October 7th and its aftermath.

His images are unflinching: A computer screen glowing white with dental records, needed to identify remains. A funeral for a military dog killed in service. A mother picnicking at her late husband's grave, their newborn baby beside her. A morgue, overflowing.

Hear why Oren believes it's so important to accurately capture the brutality of October 7th, and how his camera functions as both his sword and his shield. You can find a copy of 06:29 ⁠here⁠⁠.⁠

Credits:

Host and Creator: Manya Marcus

Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick

Associate Editor and Producer: Keren Glicksman

Content Editor: Alexandra Yelderman

Logo Design: Samuel Vilemar

Outro Music: "No Fear" | Aaron Holder

Listen on ⁠Spotify⁠ or ⁠Apple Music⁠

Young People Are The Heroes Of This War Jun 01, 2026

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I met Shelly (who asked that her last name not be shared) in a shelter in central Israel in March during Israel's war with the Iranian regime. Shelly was 21, confident, radiant and articulate. I gravitated towards her immediately. When she mentioned she was an officer in the army training to be a combat physician, I knew she'd have important things to say. Once we were out of the shelter, we sat down and talked — and I learned more than I expected. I hope you enjoy this episode.

Credits:

Host and Creator: Manya Marcus

Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick

Associate Editor and Producer: Keren Glicksman

Editor: Alexandra Yelderman

Logo Design: Samuel Vilemar

Outro Music: "לפני השינה" | Anat Malamud

Listen on ⁠Spotify⁠ or ⁠Apple Music⁠

There Is No After May 24, 2026

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This past November, I sat down with Amanda Borschel-Dan, Deputy Editor of The Times of Israel. Ever since the war began, it's been her voice on the Times of Israel Daily Briefing that has kept me — and so many of us in the English-speaking diaspora — feeling oriented and sane. She is one of my heroes of journalism: someone who has reported on October 7th and the subsequent wars with extraordinary rigor and clarity while being, as an Israeli, completely inside the story herself. In our conversation, Amanda spoke about what it means to do that work — how it can function as therapy, a kind of anchor in a crisis with no end.

Credits:

Host and Creator: Manya Marcus

Sound Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick

Associate Editor and Producer: Keren Glicksman

Editor: Alexandra Yelderman

Logo Design: Samuel Vilemar

Outro Music: "Yamim Shel Sheket" | Tandu

Listen on ⁠YouTube⁠

The Labor Room Is The Holy Of Holies May 17, 2026

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I learned about Channi Rabinovitz through her husband, Itzhik. Itzhik appeared in an earlier episode — ⁠"A Tsunami of PTSD Is Coming" ⁠— where he spoke about the mental health journey of one of his sons, who found healing through a hydrotherapy-based trauma treatment clinic in Israel called Ripples of Healing, also known as Einot Bar.

It was Itzhik who told me about Channi. Channi has worked as a midwife — before October 7, and after. She has shown up to work with mothers whose husbands have been killed, or who return home from war in body but not in spirit. Despite the heaviness, Channi goes to work with enthusiasm and joy. To Channi, the labor and delivery room is "the holy of holies."

When I finally met her late last year, I understood immediately that Itzhik was right. Channi is a force. She has boundless energy and unshakeable devotion — to life, to her people, to the work that she does, and to the land of Israel. Just before we began the interview, I learned that Channi donated a kidney to a stranger when she was already in her early sixties. That's who she is.

My relationship with Channi became very significant this past March, when I found myself stranded in Israel during its most recent war with the Iranian regime. Channi and Itzhik took me in. They fed me home-cooked meals daily. They kept me laughing through middle-of-the-night runs to the bomb shelter. They hosted me for Purim and Shabbat, at a time when celebrating felt really hard. And they worked hard to help me secure an airline ticket (not a small feat!) so that I could make it home safely to my family.

I don't use the word formidable lightly. But there is no other word for Channi.

I hope you enjoy this episode.

Credits:

Host and Creator: Manya Marcus

Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick

Associate Editor and Producer: Keren Glicksman

Logo Design: Samuel Vilemar

Outro Music: "Love Unfolding" | Elijah Aaron

Listen on ⁠Spotify⁠ or ⁠Apple Music

Connecting The Children Of Abraham May 10, 2026

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On March 11th, I sat down with Alyssa Annis, a native of Manchester, England, now living in Israel. Several years ago, while working closely with Holocaust survivors, Alyssa promised them that their stories would not be forgotten. This promise has become the defining mission of her life. Today she works with ⁠Sharaka⁠, bringing Holocaust education to Muslim leaders in the Arab nations that are signatories to the Abraham Accords, places where that history is either deeply misunderstood or deliberately obscured.

I met Alyssa on the last day of what was supposed to be a two-week trip to Israel — one that extended after I found myself stranded in the middle of the war with the Iranian regime. A mutual friend, Rabbi Joe Wolfson of Tel Aviv, put out a call asking if anyone in his community would speak on a podcast about life after October 7th. Alyssa raised her hand.

You can tell exactly where we are in history by listening. We were literally dodging missiles — pausing as we entered her building to wait out a siren. And yet Alyssa radiates optimism, including genuine hope that the war would bring about regime change in Iran. As of this writing on May 1st, 2026, there is a fragile ceasefire in place and the regime has not yet fallen.

I'm posting this conversation two weeks after my episode with Danesh Malmir. Danesh, an Iranian man, spoke about his awakening upon discovering Holocaust history — forbidden and denied in his country. Alyssa speaks about the urgency of bringing that same truth to others. Together, Danesh and Alyssa make a convincing case for the power of Holocaust education in the Middle East.

Credits:

Host and Creator: Manya Marcus

Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick

Associate Editor and Producer: Keren Glicksman

Editor: Alexandra Yelderman

Logo Design: Samuel Vilemar

Outro Music: "FAITH" | Nuriel

Listen on ⁠Spotify⁠ or ⁠Apple Music⁠

It’s 47 Years That They Are Killing People Apr 26, 2026

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This episode features Danesh Malmir, who was born in Iran and later came to the United States as an asylum seeker.

Introduced to host Manya Marcus through a mutual connection, Danesh shares the story of his activism against the Iranian regime and the personal cost of that work. He was shot during an anti-government protest, witnessed the IRGC kill a close friend, and was ultimately forced to flee Iran, leaving his family behind.

Unlike most guests on the show, Danesh is not Jewish. He describes himself as both an anti-regime activist and a peace-seeker, committed to the vision of a freer Iran.

That same conviction informs his support for the recent military campaign against the regime—an operation that was ongoing at the time of the interview. As of this writing, a fragile ceasefire is in place.

Credits:

Host and Creator: Manya Marcus

Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick

Associate Editor and Producer: Keren Glicksman

Editor: Alexandra Yelderman

Logo Design: Samuel Vilemar

Outro Music: "Motorchi (Dayeh Dayeh)" | Reza Saghaei

Listen on Spotify or Apple Music

How Do We Rebuild Our Country? Apr 01, 2026

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When the What Came After team traveled to Israel this past February, we arrived with a plan: a slate of interviews, a full itinerary, and a clear sense of direction. But when war with the Iranian regime began on February 28th, everything changed.

In the days that followed, we continued searching for voices that could help make sense of the moment. One of them was Netta Hultqvist, whom host Manya Marcus met in the underground bomb shelter of Tel Aviv’s Ink Hotel.

Raised between Sweden and Israel, Netta describes a dramatic shift in her life after October 7th—moving from a career in finance and economics into the study of warfare, human nature, and defense technology. A veteran of the IDF, she reflects on the forces that drive violence, the possibilities for limiting harm to civilians, and why, as a secular person, she found herself turning to religious music in the aftermath of October 7th—and again now.

Credits:

Host and Creator: Manya Marcus

Managing Producer: Eli Akselrod

Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick

Associate Editor: Keren Glicksman

Editor: Alexandra Yelderman

Logo Design: Samuel Vilemar

Outro Music: "אמן" | Tandu

Listen on ⁠Spotify⁠ or ⁠Apple Music⁠

What Came After: Live From Israel - Chapter 9: What’s So Funny? Mar 25, 2026

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Recorded during the first days of Israel’s second war with the Iranian regime, this chapter explores the role of dark humor in moments of crisis. From bomb shelters to everyday interactions, laughter emerges as a powerful way to cope with fear, uncertainty, and life under fire.

Learn more about our podcast at https://www.whatcameafter.com/

We Are A PTSD Nation Mar 22, 2026

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Professional para-athlete Asael Shabo lost his leg in a terror attack at the age of nine—an attack that also took the lives of several members of his family.

In this episode, he shares a personal update from wartime Israel, reflects on his journey to wheelchair basketball, and speaks about trauma, resilience, and the long path to recovery.
To support the Israel ParaSport Center- which played a critical role in Asael's recovery and continues to do so for thousands of Israelis with disabilities- please click here: https://israelparasport.org/donate/

Credits:

Host and Creator: Manya Marcus

Managing Producer: Eli Akselrod

Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick

Associate Editor: Keren Glicksman

Editors: Eli Akselrod and Alexandra Yelderman

Logo Design: Samuel Vilemar

Outro Music: "כלים" | Anat Malamud

Listen on Spotify or Apple Music

As An Artist, You Need To Tell The Truth Mar 18, 2026

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In this episode, Manya Marcus speaks with award-winning Israeli screenwriter Eden Gurion about his latest film, called Remnants in English The film follows a teenage girl whose older sister was killed at the Nova music festival during the massacre in Israel on October 7, 2023, and offers several intimate portraits of grief. In their conversation, Eden reflects on the many faces of grief and on why much of his work focuses on stories about Israeli identity - particularly in moments of national trauma and upheaval.

Eden and Manya also discuss the unexpected international reception of Remnants, which has received awards and critical acclaim abroad even as many Israeli artists are navigating boycotts and growing cultural isolation.

Credits:

Host and Creator: Manya Marcus

Managing Producer: Eli Akselrod

Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick

Associate Editor: Keren Glicksman

Editor 2: Eli Akselrod

Logo Design: Samuel Vilemar

Music:

עד שהלילה נעלם
Until the Night Is Gone

Composition & Lyrics: Ilai Chapman (composer, lyrics), Eylon Sasson (composer, lyrics), Lidor Sultan (arranger, composer, lyrics)
Production & Engineering: Lidor Sultan (producer)
Singing: Anna Steffanie

Listen here

Learn more about our podcast at https://www.whatcameafter.com/

What Came After: Live From Israel - Chapter 8: Leaving and Believing Mar 17, 2026

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Hi, this is Manya Marcus. It’s March 16th, 2026, and I’m recording this from not Israel. I was able to fly home last week and arrived back in Chicago just a few hours before Shabbat began.

What you’re about to hear are reflections from several people about how they left Israel during the war - and what those departures meant to them.

During my unexpected 13 days in Israel at the start of the war, I was able to record so many conversations with people living through those moments in real time. We’ll have more chapters here for you soon.

Learn more about our podcast at https://www.whatcameafter.com/

What Came After: Live From Israel - Chapter 7: We Shall Do and We Shall Hear (and We Shall Hope) Mar 13, 2026

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This chapter, recorded in Israel on March 12th, 2026, during the second war with the Iranian regime, brings together three voices reflecting on life in wartime.

Rabbi Joe Wolfson of Tel Aviv speaks about the powerful urge to volunteer in moments of crisis - and how that impulse has been constrained by the realities of sheltering close to home. In Rehovot, Manya Marcus meets Binyamin, who sits outside a mall listening on his phone to psalms recited in the Yemenite style. And Sara Dahan reflects on her hopes for the Iranian People, and for Israel’s future.

I Never Used the Word ’Love’ So Much Mar 11, 2026

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Hi everyone, this is Manya Marcus. This episode is being released from Israel on March 11th, 2026, where I’ve been stranded since the war with the Iranian regime began.

Since the war started, we’ve been releasing short episodes we’re calling chapters. The last one was called "Anna from the Tel Aviv Bomb Shelter", a conversation with a woman I met while we were both sheltering in the basement of my hotel.

While we were down there, I told Anna about the project I originally came to Israel to work on: a series about Israeli music, and how those songs reveal the connections - and sometimes the tensions - between Israeli Jews and Jews in the diaspora right now.

At the center of that series is a very unlikely friendship - mine with a man you'll hear in this episode named Oz Bar-Liss.

I met Oz at Einot Bar, a trauma treatment clinic in the Negev. In the conversation you’re about to hear, he describes how he and his family narrowly escaped Hamas terrorists - only for him to return later that same day in uniform.

You’ll also hear how quickly he reaches for music to make sense of what he’s lived through.

This is a first introduction to Oz - someone you’ll be hearing much more from when the new series comes out in a few months.

Credits:

Host and Creator: Manya Marcus

Managing Producer: Eli Akselrod

Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick

Associate Editor: Keren Glicksman

Logo Design: Samuel Vilemar

Outro Music: "אין לי ארץ אחרת" | Corinne Allal

Listen on Spotify or Apple Music

What Came After: Live From Israel - Chapter 6: Anna from the Tel Aviv Bomb Shelter Mar 10, 2026

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In this chapter from What Came After's reporting from the Second War with Iran, Manya Marcus speaks with Anna, a woman she met in the bomb shelter of the Ink Hotel. The conversation ranges from how to keep a bomb shelter safe to Anna's view that the beauty of Israeli culture and the Hebrew language take precedence over the significance of the land to a discussion of contemporary and classic Israeli music.

What Came After: Live From Israel - Chapter 5: The Hardest Parts Mar 09, 2026

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Manya Marcus continues to send audio postcards from the Second Iran War with Israel. In these vignettes, she shares what it's like to receive virtual medical care from doctors who are also tending to victims of missile fire; how it feels to know where her children are in their day- without her; the exhaustion of going back and forth to the bomb shelter; and how even grocery shopping is anxiety-provoking right now.

What Came After: Live From Israel - Chapter 4: Nicole and Nissim Mar 08, 2026

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In this chapter, Manya Marcus shares two interviews: the first takes place in a Tel Aviv bomb shelter with Nicole from Rome, who wonders if she would still have moved to Israel if she had known what life would be like for her and her children during a war. The second interview takes place in a bomb shelter in Rehovot with a man named Nissim. Nissim, who was born in Morocco and served for 28 years in the Israeli army before becoming a teacher, reflects on the reality of Jewish life in Morocco before his family fled to Israel, and explain why his name, which means "miracles", has such significance right now.

What Came After: Live From Israel - Chapter 3: Purim Mar 07, 2026

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Manya Marcus, host of What Came After, got stuck in Israel during the Second Iran War. Manya continues to send audio impressions of her time on the ground, this time from Rehovot, where Purim celebrations remained lively- both inside and outside the bomb shelter.

What Came After: Live From Israel - Chapter 1 Mar 05, 2026

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Manya Marcus, host of What Came After, spent two weeks in Israel doing interviews for the podcast when war with the Iranian regime broke out. She has been recording on-the-spot interviews in bomb shelters, cafes, and on the street since then. This is her first reflection, recorded during a break between rocket barrages in Tel Aviv. Please stay tuned for more short episodes chronicling this war on the ground.

What Came After: Live From Israel - Chapter 2 Mar 05, 2026

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Manya Marcus continues to report live from the war between Israel and the Iranian regime. These are audio postcards from various scenes she is experiencing on the ground in Israel: in bomb shelters, cafes between rocket barrages, in elevators, and beyond.

We Show Up Feb 17, 2026

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What Came After sat down with Rabbi Hody Nemes this past February. Rav Hody, as he is called by his congregants, is the Assistant Rabbi of Skokie Valley Agudath Jacob (the shul that WCA host Manya Marcus calls home!), as well as the Program Director of Solu, an organization based in Skokie that develops relationships between the Orthodox community and other communities through service and learning partnerships. We spoke with Rav Hody about his work with Solu, particularly the challenges the organization faced as it doubled down on its resolve to build bridges beyond the Orthodox Jewish community after October 7th, and how that work has culminated in a current project that has gained international attention: Hersh's Fridge, a fully kosher community fridge built to meet the needs of those facing food insecurity across all local communities.

Rav Hody also speaks about earlier chapters in his professional history as a climate change activist, how he feels about the direction the climate change movement has taken since October 7th, his continued passion for climate justice and communal service, and the story of why he decided to become a rabbi.

Credits:

Host and Creator: Manya Marcus

Managing Producer: Eli Akselrod

Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick

Editor 2: Eli Akselrod

Logo Design: Samuel Vilemar

Outro Music: Tandu - “מה נאוו עלי”

Listen on Spotify or Apple Music

They Are The New Survivors Jan 22, 2026

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This past fall, I sat down with Nadine Greenfield-Binstock, a longtime Jewish communal professional who has devoted her career to strengthening Jewish life as well as Israel advocacy. After more than 20 years working with the American Jewish Committee, Nadine reflects on the AJC’s role in building bridges—both within the Jewish community and beyond it. She also speaks candidly speaks about the devastating night that Yaron Leschinsky and Sarah Milgrim were murdered at an AJC event in Washington, DC. Our conversation also looks ahead: the challenges facing emerging community leaders, as well as the many sources of faith in the Jewish future. Nadine shares the powerful story of her father, a survivor of nine concentration camps, and how he transformed post-traumatic stress into post-traumatic growth—along with her complicated feelings of relief that he did not live to witness October 7, as well as how much she misses him and wishes that he were here now to offer his hard-earned wisdom.

Credits:

Host and Creator: Manya Marcus

Managing Producer: Eli Akselrod

Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick

Editor 2: Eli Akselrod

Logo Design: Samuel Vilemar

Outro Music: פונאר” - סנדרה ג'ונסון”

Listen on Youtube

Why Am I Living In America? Jan 11, 2026

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In September 2025, I sat down with Aryeh Schwartz, a professional photographer based in Washington, DC. Aryeh was working at the Capital Jewish Museum on the night that Sarah Milgrim and Yaron Leschinsky were murdered.

Aryeh is also the founder of Winsidr.com, a leading outlet for in-depth WNBA coverage.

In this conversation, Aryeh reflects on the night Sarah and Yaron were killed and its aftermath. He also reflects on the unexpected ways his work in WNBA journalism has shifted since October 7th. Aryeh speaks candidly about the many roles he holds beyond his professional life: as a father striving to protect his children while teaching them to cherish their Jewish identity; as a partner navigating difficult conversations with his wife about the balance between safety and Jewish pride; and as the proud brother of a combat soldier serving in th Israel Defense Forces.

This is a conversation about identity, responsibility and what it means to live as a Jew in America today.

Credits:

Host and Creator: Manya Marcus

Managing Producer: Eli Akselrod

Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick

Editor 2: Eli Akselrod

Editors: Noah Greenblatt and Shira Glicksman

Logo Design: Samuel Vilemar

Outro Music: “שִׁירַת הָעֲשָׂבִים” - Rabbi Nachman of Breslov and Naomi Shemer

Listen on Spotify or Apple Music

Why Do We Start So Late? Dec 21, 2025

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Earlier this year, I traveled to Princeton, New Jersey to meet with Lynne Azarchi and Harlene Lichter Galen, authors of Countering Antisemitism: A How‑To Guide for Youth (8–18), Families and Educators. The two met while working on anti-bias programming in a New Jersey after-school setting and, during the height of COVID, began noticing a troubling rise in antisemitic bullying and bias targeting younger students.

In this episode, Lynne and Harlene reflect on their personal encounters with antisemitism and how their professional work with children across diverse backgrounds informed the book’s evidence-based approach. Central to their framework is the importance of helping children identify trustworthy adults who can support them in navigating antisemitism with confidence, compassion, and pride.

They also speak candidly about navigating political differences around Israel within their own families, and explain why the strategies outlined in the book remain effective regardless of political perspective. Both emphasize the urgency of beginning this work early—during elementary school—rather than expecting teens and young adults to face these challenges on their own once they reach college.

Credits:

Host and Creator: Manya Marcus

Managing Producer: Eli Akselrod

Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick

Editor 2: Eli Akselrod

Logo Design: Samuel Vilemar

Outro Music: “Where We Go” - Elijah Aaron

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Adults In The Room: Where Are You? Dec 11, 2025

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Earlier this year, I sat down with Alissa Zeffren, a Tanach and History teacher at Ida Crown Jewish Academy outside Chicago and the director of NILI, the women’s division of the YU Torah Mitzion Kollel. Alissa also leads the Chicago chapter of Student to Student (STS), a program that trains Jewish teens—across Reform, Conservative, and Orthodox backgrounds—to present about Judaism in non-Jewish public and private school classrooms, working to combat antisemitism one classroom at a time. Our guest last week, Kelly Shapiro, is a notable graduate of Chicago's Student-to-Student program.

Alissa founded the Chicago STS chapter in direct response to the 2018 shooting at the Tree of Life Congregation in Pittsburgh. By the time October 7th occurred, the program was already well-established, with a robust network of schools and educators. Its peer-to-peer model—introducing students to the many facets of Jewish identity through direct conversation—had already seen great success.

In this episode, Alissa speaks with a rare blend of compassion and candor about what happened when STS students were scheduled to visit a public school in the days immediately following October 7th, and how she, her students, the STS program, and its partners navigated the unexpected challenges that followed.

Credits:

Host and Creator: Manya Marcus

Managing Producer: Eli Akselrod

Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick

Editor 2: Eli Akselrod

Logo Design: Samuel Vilemar

Outro Music: “Lmala” - Ilana Chava

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We Want It To Come From Us Dec 01, 2025

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This past July, What Came After sat down with Kelly Shapiro, an engineering student at Rutgers University who founded the club Students Stand With Israel in the aftermath of October 7th. Kelly discusses her path into student government as antizionism and antisemitism surged on campus, and she reflects on the fear many Jewish students feel about speaking up—often out of concern that they lack an encyclopedic grasp of the conflict. She also shares her own experiences with intimidation since becoming the public face of her organization.

In our conversation, Kelly talks about both the burdens and the pride that come with taking on this work as a college student. She also describes how genuine dialogue—not protests or slogans—has helped foster unexpected moments of mutual understanding between her and some peers who identify as anti-Israel.

Credits:

Host and Creator: Manya Marcus

Managing Producer: Eli Akselrod

Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick

Editor 2: Eli Akselrod

Editor: Molly Glicksman

Logo Design: Samuel Vilemar

Outro Music: “Light” - Ilana Chava

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A Really Great Day For Another Proud Jew Nov 24, 2025

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This past September, What Came After traveled to Washington, D.C., to meet with Rabbi David Wolkenfeld, the rabbi of Ohev Shalom. Rabbi Wolkenfeld, who began his tenure only a few months before October 7th, reflected on the unique challenges of stepping into leadership in the shadow of that day.

He spoke about the wide range of pastoral needs that emerged within his new congregation—from helping people reclaim spaces for Jewish joy after tragedy to supporting families across multiple generations who hold very different perspectives on Israel. He also addressed the dangers of nationalism and how religious Zionism must grapple with what it means for God to have returned the Jewish people to a fully inhabited land, which is currently home to seven million Jews and seven million Arabs.

Credits:

Host and Creator: Manya Marcus

Managing Producer: Eli Akselrod

Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick

Editor 2: Eli Akselrod

Editor: Keren Glicksman

Logo Design: Samuel Vilemar

Outro Music: “נועם בנאי - “עיניים טובות

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The Most Meaningful Thing I Did Nov 19, 2025

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Earlier this week, I visited the Nova Exhibition in my hometown of Chicago. Even though I had visited the Nova site just four months after October 7th, I sensed that this experience would be more intense. I was right. And that intensity is part of what makes the exhibit so important.

After viewing the exhibit, I sat down with Doron Mizrahi. Doron, now 27, attended the Nova festival. He witnessed what he repeatedly describes as a “horror show”—a phrase that, as you’ll hear, is nothing if not an understatement. After saving several people and guiding them to safety, Doron went straight into the army reserves. Just three weeks after enduring the gruesome massacre, Doron was serving as a soldier in Gaza.

This episode is, in many ways, a love letter—to Doron’s family, especially his mother; to the army, which gave him purpose and belonging during his darkest hours; and to trance music. But perhaps most poignantly, this interview is a love letter to the Tribe of Nova, a deeply compassionate and organized community that has stepped in to support survivors on every level.

I know we have many listeners in Chicago and across the United States. I want to encourage everyone to see the Nova Exhibition—especially those who may feel scared or apprehensive. Every person who walks through the exhibit enters into a profound relationship with this moment in Jewish history. But they also become part of a surprising emerging narrative—one of courage, healing, and love.

I hope you enjoy this very special interview. And for those who are able to visit, you can find more information about the Nova Exhibition at novaexhibtion.com.

Credits:

Host and Creator: Manya Marcus

Managing Producer: Eli Akselrod

Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick

Editor 2: Eli Akselrod

Logo Design: Samuel Vilemar

Outro Music: “Run Away" - Bizarre Contact

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The Ultimate Slur Nov 18, 2025

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Welcome back to What Came After. You’re about to hear the second part of my interview with Dr. Devin Naar, a professor of Sephardic Studies in Seattle.

When Devin and I first spoke a few months ago, we were trying to understand how to approach a set of topics about which we think and feel very differently. At one point, he asked me, “Where are you holding with the g-word?”—a question that, for most Jews since October 7th, needs no explanation.

For many Jews, the accusation of genocide against Israel is deeply offensive, even outlandish-- and profoundly antisemitic. For others, the idea of genocide in Gaza aligns with long-held critiques of Israel. And there are still other Jews who have identified—or still identify—as Zionists, for whom contemplating the possibility of a genocide has created real anguish and disorientation.

In this episode, Devin uses the g-word. I want to say explicitly that I do not agree with Devin's framing. But, as Dein and I discuss in this episode, I do believe very strongly in letting people speak for themselves. And I also see the critical importance of engaging honestly with Jews who see things differently, perhaps especially when the disagreements are substantive and painful.

Recently, when I told Devin that I had introduced him in the previous episode as a non-Zionist, he challenged that label. “Who said I was a non-Zionist?” he said. “I’m a Jew. A Sephardic Jew, full stop.”

Welcome back to this difficult conversation. No matter what you think of what Devin shares here, let's all hope for continued dialogue across our many Jewish communities—a future in which everyone gets to speak for themselves.

Credits:

Host and Creator: Manya Marcus

Managing Producer: Eli Akselrod

Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick

Editor 2: Eli Akselrod

Editor: Keren Glicksman

Logo Design: Samuel Vilemar

Outro Music: “A Modern Man" - Guy Mendilow Ensemble

Listen on Spotify or Apple Music

Visit us at https://www.whatcameafter.com/

The Friendship Remains The Highest Value Nov 12, 2025

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In this episode, I traveled to Seattle back in September to sit down with Dr. Devin Naar, a professor of Sephardic Studies at the University of Washington.

Recording this interview was difficult for me. I’ve envisioned this podcast as a way to chronicle history in real time — to capture, through long-form conversations, the vastness and intensity of the post–October 7th landscape for Jews around the world, and for many others as well.

Until now, the voices I’ve centered have largely been those of self-described Zionists — people who, in the wake of an indescribably cruel and harrowing attack on Israel, have faced a wave of vitriol, intolerance, hostility, and even violence.

But if this project is truly to document this moment in all its complexity, it also has to include non-Zionist voices — and we need to recognize explicitly that there is no single Jewish Community, but- as has always been the case-- Jewish CommunitieS. The word Israel in Hebrew- Yisrael-- means to wrestle. We usually think about this in reference to wrestling with God. But the truth is, we wrestle one another also.

I’m not interested in speaking with anyone who uses a non- or anti-Zionist stance as a rejection of dialogue — as a reason to hurl slogans, to deny the humanity or intelligence of people (like me) who are Zionists, or to justify acts of terror. But as we all navigate what I hope is a post-war reality, I believe that staying engaged — especially with those we perceive as the “Other” — is a skill that those of us who live in a multiplicity of Jewish communities will need to cultivate-- for our civility, for our integrity, and, in some ways, for our survival.

We’ve chosen to present this interview in two parts — exactly as it unfolded. At the end of this first installation, you’ll hear, as I did, that Devin seems unsettled, that there’s more he wants to say. After wrapping up, we turned the microphones back on and continued the conversation, which you’ll hear in part two.

This interview may be challenging to listen to — just as it was challenging for me to record. But I hope you’ll stay with it, and imagine what it might be like to have a similar conversation with someone, maybe someone close to you, who has provoked in you a sense of discomfort or distress or even betrayal over these past two long years.

Credits:

Host and Creator: Manya Marcus

Managing Producer: Eli Akselrod

Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick

Editor 2: Eli Akselrod

Editor: Keren Glicksman

Logo Design: Samuel Vilemar

Outro Music: Syete dias enserrados by David Haim

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Being Jewish Actually Does Come At A Cost Nov 10, 2025

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This past September, What Came After host Manya Marcus sat down with Jojo and Yoni Kalin, a married couple from Washington, D.C., who were present at the Capital Jewish Museum on the tragic evening of May 21, 2025 — the night two Israeli embassy staffers, Sarah Milgrim and Yaron Lischinsky, were murdered by a man who, when apprehended, shouted, “I did it for Palestine, I did it for Gaza.”

Jojo had helped organize the event that night — the American Jewish Committee’s annual Young Diplomats Reception. The theme was “Turning Pain into Purpose,” focusing on humanitarian diplomacy and efforts to build bridges amid the Israel–Hamas conflict. The murders that followed felt unbearably senseless and stood in stark contrast to the spirit of the evening.

In this conversation, Jojo and Yoni reflect on their experiences that night — including their brief, bewildering interactions with the attacker — and how they’ve processed the trauma since.

Jojo, who converted to Judaism, shares how this tragedy deepened her commitment to the Jewish faith and community, even as she wrestles with fears about raising future children in a tradition that can carry such risk. She also speaks about becoming a conversion mentor and her admiration for those choosing Judaism in the wake of October 7th.

Yoni, raised in a progressive Jewish home steeped in interfaith dialogue and activism, describes a growing sense of political homelessness after October 7th, and how he has grappled with what he calls the “hardening of [his] heart” since May 21st — as he comes to terms with the painful realization that, in America in 2025, being Jewish can come at a very steep cost.

Credits:

Host and Creator: Manya Marcus

Managing Producer: Eli Akselrod

Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick

Editor 2: Eli Akselrod

Logo Design: Samuel Vilemar

Outro Music: Noah · האילנות 41

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Trust The Person Who Says ”I’m Confused” Nov 05, 2025

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This past December, I sat down with Benjamin Rogers, Deputy Director of the AJC Center for a New Middle East. Benjy and I spoke about the future of Israel’s relationships with its Arab neighbors in the wake of October 7, and how he hoped the Abraham Accords will continue to evolve. Benjy discussed Israel’s potential as a strategic partner to countries across the region confronting shared challenges such as economic instability, water insecurity, and climate change. Despite ongoing tensions, Benjy remains hopeful that necessity will continue to drive progress toward normalization and regional collaboration.

He also reflected on the personal impact of tragedy—the May 2025 murders of Israeli Embassy staffers Sarah Milgrim and Yaron Lischinsky; Benjy felt particularly close with Yaron. Benjy speaks about the evening of the murder, how he and others are processing the senselessness of the tragedy, and how he continues to navigate what it means to live, work, and identify as a Jew in this complex moment in history.

Credits:

Host and Creator: Manya Marcus

Managing Producer: Eli Akselrod

Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick

Editor 2: Eli Akselrod

Logo Design: Samuel Vilemar

Outro Music: Olam Chesed Yibaneh · Rabbi Menachem Creditor · David Paskin

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Nobody Else Has To Pay Such A High Price For Being Accepted Nov 03, 2025

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This past September, I had the pleasure of traveling to New York City to sit down with Deena Margolies, a staff attorney at the Louis D. Brandeis Center for Human Rights Under Law. The Brandeis Center—unaffiliated with Brandeis University—provides legal advocacy for individuals affected by Title VI violations, with a particular focus on those targeted for their Jewish or Zionist identity in academic settings, from elementary schools to universities, including students, faculty, and staff.

In our conversation, Deena shares what inspired her journey from entertainment law to civil rights advocacy, where she now represents victims of antisemitism. She explains the scope of Title VI, unpacks the distinction between free speech and harassment, and recounts powerful stories of college students who risked their social standing to defend themselves and their peers. Deena also reflects on why her current work keeps her every bit as busy—and fulfilled—as her earlier legal career.

Please join me for this timely conversation.

Host and Creator: Manya Marcus

Managing Producer: Maya Zanger-Nadis

Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick

Logo Design: Samuel Vilemar

Outro Music: "Basheket Sheli" by Anat Malamud

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We Are Always Going To Be Treading Water Oct 29, 2025

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This past July, I had the privilege of sitting down with Yossi Held, Executive Director of Stand With Us Midwest. In our conversation, Yossi discussed the dual mission of Stand With Us: to educate the public about Israel and Judaism in order to counter widespread misinformation, and to provide legal support for individuals impacted by antisemitism—particularly in educational settings, from elementary schools to graduate programs.

Yossi reflects on how the small size of the Jewish community leaves it in a constant struggle to stay afloat against antisemitism—an undercurrent that has always existed but has now erupted into an undeniable force in society. He also talks about his personal journey through profound loss and resilience: navigating the aftermath of October 7th while caring for his terminally ill husband. Yossi shares how, in the midst of this storm of communal and personal adversity, his work at Stand With Us became his solace.

Host and Creator: Manya Marcus

Managing Producer: Maya Zanger-Nadis

Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick

Editor: Shira Glicksman

Logo Design: Samuel Vilemar

Outro Music: "Boom Boom Blossom" by Elijah Aaron

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Addicted To The Compassion Oct 27, 2025

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On September 17, 2025, Manya Marcus spoke with Raphael Herbst, a senior paramedic with Magen David Adom (MDA) and head of its Emotional Resilience Program, at the offices of American Friends of Magen David Adom in New York City.

Raphael discusses MDA’s vital role in Israeli society—from delivering world-class emergency care across the country to leading national responses to crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic, terror attacks, the 12-day war with Iran, and the October 7, 2023 massacre in southern Israel.

He also highlights MDA’s technological innovations, like using WhatsApp to guide patients before medics arrive and securing blood banks as strategic national assets. Raphael shares his personal journey, including his response to a 2001 terror attack and how it inspired his commitment to fostering emotional resilience among MDA staff through peer-to-peer support.

Host and Creator: Manya Marcus

Managing Producer: Maya Zanger-Nadis

Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick

Editor: Keren Glicksman

Logo Design: Samuel Vilemar

Outro Music: "Oh My Soul" by Nuriel

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A Tsunami of PTSD Is Coming Oct 22, 2025

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Welcome to What Came After. Today is October 22, 2025. While much remains uncertain in Israel, one thing is clear: the emotional recovery of an entire nation coping with collective trauma will be a long and complex process. In this episode, I speak with several remarkable people from Ripples of Healing, a therapeutic program that helps individuals process trauma through guided immersion in water. It’s a powerful, innovative and effective approach. We'll explore the therapy itself, as well as the personal journeys of several people who've been transformed by it.

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Yitzchak (Itzik) Rabinovitz

An electronic engineer and graduate of the University of Illinois, Itzik immigrated to Israel 47 years ago and has since devoted his career and life to strengthening Israel’s defense — both through his service in the IDF and his work in the defense industry.

He and his wife, Channa, are proud parents of five children and grandparents to 29. During Operation Iron Swords, four of Itzik’s sons and his son-in-law served on active reserve duty, each contributing over 400 days in defense of the nation.

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Tzviki Barkai

Age 37, husband and father of two daughters.

During his military service in Gaza (Operation Cast Lead), Tzviki was shot in the head by a sniper and critically wounded.

After undergoing treatment at Einot Bar, he experienced a profound personal transformation and chose to dedicate his life to helping others heal.

Today, Tzviki serves as the CEO of Advot Marpeh (Ripples of Healing), a nonprofit organization operating within the Einot Bar ecosystem. He leads with deep commitment to expanding care and rehabilitation for trauma survivors.

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Einat Sarfati Cohen

Founder of Einot Bar, Israel’s leading center for growth through crisis.

For the past decade, Einot Bar has been operating as an integrative healing center located in the heart of the Negev Desert, offering innovative programs that combine mind, body, and spirit.

Einat is a mother of three and the founder of the community of Giv’ot Bar, which became a model for sustainable living and regional development that transformed the Negev and the Galilee over the past twenty years.

Since October 7th, Einat has been working tirelessly in Israel and abroad to support soldiers and civilians recovering from trauma. The integrative medical model she developed at Einot Bar has been recognized as a leading approach in Israel for trauma recovery and holistic rehabilitation.

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Host and Creator: Manya Marcus

Managing Producer: Maya Zanger-Nadis

Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick

Logo Design: Samuel Vilemar

Outro Music: "And The Waves" by Menachem Halevi and Nuriel

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I’m Speaking On Behalf Of Those Who Are Still In Bondage Oct 13, 2025

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Simon Deng is a former slave from South Sudan, human rights activist, public speaker, and professional swimmer. He has lived in the United States since 1989 and has been a leader of the South Sudanese expatriate community since 1993.

⁠⁠

Host and Creator: Manya Marcus

Managing Producer: Maya Zanger-Nadis

Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick

Logo Design: Samuel Vilemar

Outro Music: "Jerusalem" by Elijah Aaron

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Maybe There Is Something Left Sep 14, 2025

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In February, What Came After sat down with the Chief Rabbi of Poland and native New Yorker, Michael Schudrich. Their conversation was recorded in Warsaw, where Rabbi Schudrich has lived and worked for the past 35 years.

Host Manya Marcus speaks with Schudrich about his personal journey to Poland, how there are many more Jews- or those with Jewish heritage- who live in Poland than anyone realized or expected when Schudrich took his post in 1990, and how Poland’s Jewish community is growing to include more Poles whose Jewish parents, grandparents and great grandparents stayed in Poland after the war and chose not to share with their own families that they were Jewish. Schudrich speaks to the process of self-discovery among these community members, as well as the need for the broader international Jewish community to recognize and support the Jewish life that has not only survived in Poland, but begun to thrive.

Schudrich talks about the Polish response to October 7th, and how, in the wake of the tragedy, more Polish Jews have come out of the woodwork and chosen to live Jewish lives.

Host and Creator: Manya Marcus

Managing Producer: Maya Zanger-Nadis

Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick

Editor: Keren Glicksman

Logo Design: Samuel Vilemar

Outro Music: "It's Never Too Late" by Elijah Aaron

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I Invite You All To Come Sep 07, 2025

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Mino is a Roman entrepreneur and restaurateur with deep roots in the culinary world, shaped by his family’s experience in the industry. He manages two establishments: Casalino Osteria, a kosher restaurant, and a bakery-café, Dolce Kosher. Through his work, he combines tradition and innovation, creating welcoming spaces where people can enjoy great food and hospitality. Beyond the kitchen, Mino is passionate about curating special events and menus that highlight seasonal ingredients and Italian culinary heritage.

Host and Creator: Manya Marcus

Voice Acting: Matt Marcus

Managing Producer: Maya Zanger-Nadis

Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick

Editor: Keren Glicksman

Logo Design: Samuel Vilemar

Outro Music: "Osim Shuk" by Noa (Achinoam Nini)

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The Diaspora Is An Opportunity Aug 31, 2025

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Ruth Dureghello was born in Rome on July 5, 1967. She earned a law degree from the University of Rome La Sapienza and went on to pursue a career in entrepreneurial activities. Married with two children, Ruth led the “For Israel” party as its presidential candidate for the Council of the Jewish Community in Rome in 2015. She won 44.08% of the total vote and, following the Council’s recommendation, became the first woman to serve as President in the history of the Roman Jewish Community. Re-elected by a wide majority in 2019, she led the Jewish Community of Rome until June 2023.

Host and Creator: Manya Marcus

Managing Producer: Maya Zanger-Nadis

Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick

Logo Design: Samuel Vilemar

Outro Music: "Shir L'Shalom" by Lehakat HaNachal

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What Happens In The Souls Of The West Aug 24, 2025

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Listen to our conversation with ELNET CEE (Central and Eastern Europe) featuring:

Anna Miszewska, Deputy Director

Joanna Olszewska, Project Manager

Marta Kubica, CEO

Host and Creator: Manya Marcus

Managing Producer: Maya Zanger-Nadis

Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick

Editor: Keren Glicksman

Logo Design: Samuel Vilemar

Outro Music: "Old Polish Tango in Hebrew" by Olga Mieleszczuk

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We’re Talking About Freedom For Everyone Aug 17, 2025

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Arie Bensemhoun has been the Chief Executive Officer of Elnet France since 2011. He has made his career in the private sector as a consultant in communications, PR, and international relations, dealing with Middle Eastern and strategic affairs. He plays a crucial role in the French-Israeli relationship through his commitment at both the community and political levels. He seeks to strengthen ties between political leaders from France and Israel who believe that close relations between Europe and Israel are vital to both parties.

Host and Creator: Manya Marcus

Managing Producer: Maya Zanger-Nadis

Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick

Editor: Keren Glicksman

Logo Design: Samuel Vilemar

Outro Music: "Nigun Ga'agu'a" by Elnatan

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It’s So Much Easier To Play With Emotions Than To Listen To The Facts Aug 10, 2025

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Marta Kubica is the Chief Executive Officer of ELNET CEE (Central and Eastern Europe), driven by a passion for strengthening ties between Europe and Israel through innovative diplomacy. After five years in the role, Marta sees ELNET as more than just an organization facilitating delegations or strategic dialogues; it is about creating a safe space for open conversation and building trust. With over 18 years of experience, including work at both the U.S. and Israeli embassies in Poland, she skillfully brings people together, applying her background in Jewish studies and political science to bridge cultural divides and foster mutual understanding.

Marta is currently focused on developing innovative diplomatic initiatives that support resilience, civil defense, and crisis management, including aiding Ukrainian refugees—a testament to her belief in the power of human connection and collaborative problem-solving.

Host and Creator: Manya Marcus

Managing Producer: Maya Zanger-Nadis

Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick

Editor: Keren Glicksman

Logo Design: Samuel Vilemar

Outro Music: "Goral Ehad" by Ofra Haza

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Bonus Episode: Paris Travelogue Aug 06, 2025

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In this special episode, What Came After presents an audio travelogue from the team’s trip to Paris this past January. Join our summer intern, Keren Glicksman, as she interviews host Manya Marcus about the experience, and listen to on-the-ground recordings from Manya and producer Maya Zanger-Nadis as they navigate the city during a particularly challenging moment in Jewish history.

Host and Creator: Manya Marcus

Managing Producer: Maya Zanger-Nadis

Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick

Editor: Keren Glicksman

Logo Design: Samuel Vilemar

Outro Music: "Une Petite Cantate" by Talya Eliav

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Cherish the Tension Aug 03, 2025

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Rabbi Emile Ackermann is the co-founder, together with his wife, Rabbanit Myriam Ackermann-Sommer, of Ayeka in Paris — the first Liberal Modern Orthodox community in France. Born in Strasbourg and a graduate of Yeshivat Chovevei Torah, he holds a BA in Administration Économique et Sociale. Rav Emile is also deeply engaged in French political life.

He is the author of N’oublions pas qui nous sommes (Let Us Not Forget Who We Are), in which he shares his vision of Modern Orthodoxy, reflects on his time at Yeshivat Chovevei Torah, and explores his perspective on laïcité in France — a subject at the heart of many public debates. A regular guest in national media, he often defends and articulates the Jewish voice in the French public sphere.

Rav Emile is also a trainer in the fight against antisemitism, providing education for French political parties as well as Jewish youth organizations. Committed to interfaith dialogue, he frequently speaks at multicultural and multi-faith events across the country.

Host and Creator: Manya Marcus

Managing Producer: Maya Zanger-Nadis

Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick

Editor: Keren Glicksman

Logo Design: Samuel Vilemar

Outro Music: "Pa'am" by Anat Malamud

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Not Only Are We Part Of The European Continent- We Should Be The Future Jul 27, 2025

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What Came After traveled to Brussels this past January to sit down with Juan Caldes at the headquarters of the European Jewish Association.

Juan, the European Advocacy Coordinator, spoke with us about the alarming rise in antisemitism across Western Europe—and why he believes this trend hasn’t taken hold in Eastern Europe in the same way. He shares some of the difficult personal decisions he's made in response to the worsening security climate, including the painful choice to affix his mezuzah to the inside of his door, shielding his Jewish identity from public view.

Juan also reflects on his experience as a convert to Judaism at such a turbulent time. Born and raised in Spain as a devout Catholic, he discovered at age 18 that he had Marrano Jewish ancestry. That revelation led him on a transformative journey to Judaism, which he studied extensively while living in Israel. Now a proud European Jew, Juan speaks candidly about why—despite significant adversity—he remains committed to defending the idea that Jews are not only a vital part of Europe’s past, but also its future.

Host and Creator: Manya Marcus

Managing Producer: Maya Zanger-Nadis

Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick

Logo Design: Samuel Vilemar

Outro Music: "Change" by Nuriel

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Our Answer Is: We’re Here Jul 20, 2025

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What Came After traveled to Amsterdam in February to speak with Rabbi Akiva Camissar about his experiences working with the city’s Israeli Jewish community in the wake of two deeply traumatic events: the October 7th attacks in Israel and the violent pogrom against visiting Israeli soccer fans in Amsterdam in November 2024.

Rabbi Camissar shares how the events of October 7th created a profound shift in his community. Made up largely of Israeli expats, the community became more tightly knit, with members drawing strength and solidarity from one another. That sense of unity proved crucial a year later, when anti-Israel violence erupted in Amsterdam. With no warning, the community mobilized and improvised rescue systems that helped protect and evacuate scores of Israelis who were in danger.

He speaks movingly about the importance of maintaining a vibrant Jewish presence in Amsterdam and how he believes that the future of the city’s Jewish life lies with its growing Israeli population. Rabbi Camissar also offers a powerful reflection on Simchat Torah 2023, which coincided with the attacks on October 7th. As news of the massacre emerged, he made a deliberate choice: his community would still dance. Even in the face of horror, they would continue the tradition of dancing with the Torah—an act of spiritual defiance and hope. Long before the phrase “We Will Dance Again” became a symbol of resilience after the Nova music festival massacre, Rabbi Camissar had already claimed the powerful sentiment for his community.

This episode offers a poignant look at how faith, community, and identity can become sources of strength in moments of fear and uncertainty—and how, even in the darkest times, Jewish life endures.

Host and Creator: Manya Marcus

Managing Producer: Maya Zanger-Nadis

Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick

Logo Design: Samuel Vilemar

Outro Music: "On Our Way" by Elijah Aaron

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I Don’t Know How They Can Live A Fully Committed Jewish Life in France Jul 13, 2025

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In this episode, we travel to Paris to speak with Anna Veronese, a rabbinical student at Maharat—the only institution offering both Orthodox ordination to women and virtual learning, creating a global community she deeply values.

We talk about Veronese's identity as a feminist, left-wing Jew who remains a committed Zionist while being selectively critical of some Israeli policies. She shares how the trauma of October 7 continues to shape her parenting, as her children form their own Jewish and Zionist identities. She also reflects on the tension between wanting to shield her children from tragedy and embracing the solidarity shown at their Jewish school with hostage families and Israeli society at large.

Veronese opens up about her complex sense of belonging—born in Italy, living in France amid rising antisemitism, and not being Israeli. She describes the pain of losing ties to the French feminist community and tells a shocking story of being cast out of a feminist march for being a Zionist. She wrestles with her belief in the importance of a vibrant Jewish future in France, even as she doubts whether the next generation can truly thrive there.

Host and Creator: Manya Marcus

Managing Producer: Maya Zanger-Nadis

Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick

Editor: Keren Glicksman

Logo Design: Samuel Vilemar

Outro Music: "Mar'ot" by Anat Malamud

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Our Task Is To Create Common Memory Jul 06, 2025

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Earlier this year, What Came After traveled to Brussels for a sobering conversation with Rihards Kols, Latvia’s Member of the European Parliament. Recorded inside one of the European Parliament’s media studios, this interview confronts a chilling possibility: that the world may be repeating the darkest chapters of the 20th century.

Kols offers an unflinching look at how his own country has confronted Russian aggression, and how the invasion of Ukraine by a nuclear-armed autocracy has emboldened others—China, North Korea, and Iran among them. He draws a direct line from Russia’s war in Ukraine to Iran’s support of Hamas’s attack on Israel—both sovereign nations under siege.

As the world grapples with rising authoritarianism, Kols warns of the West’s dangerous complacency. He challenges the belief that dialogue alone can deter autocratic threats and criticizes the hesitation of democratic nations to provide meaningful support to those on the front lines—especially Ukraine and, more recently, Israel.

Recorded in January 2025, several months before the outbreak of the Israel-Iran war, this conversation now resonates with eerie urgency. Kols’s words offer one glimpse of hope: history will warn us, rather than repeating itself, if we are willing to listen.

Host and Creator: Manya Marcus

Managing Producer: Maya Zanger-Nadis

Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick

Editor: Keren Glicksman

Logo Design: Samuel Vilemar

Outro Music: "All We See" by Nuriel

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Israel Is Our Life Insurance Jun 29, 2025

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In this episode, we travel to Rome to speak with Luca Spizzichino and David Fiorentini. Luca is the current president of the Italian Union of Jewish Students and Young Professionals (UGEI) and a freelance journalist. David, a recent medical school graduate, is UGEI’s former president and its current Policy Officer.

Luca discusses the growing challenges of combating antisemitism online and how Holocaust education has become even more central to Italian Jewish advocacy since October 7th. He also shares his efforts to defend university students whose studies were disrupted by anti-Israel protests, and reflects on his own grandparents' survival of the Holocaust without ever leaving Italy.

David talks about the difficulty of presenting Israel—a Middle Eastern country—to Western audiences. As one of just 40 Jews remaining in the Tuscan city of Siena, he reflects on the dual nature of aliyah: how moving to Israel energizes many Italian Jews, while also complicating efforts to preserve the diverse and historic Jewish culture unique to each Italian region.

Host and Creator: Manya Marcus

Managing Producer: Maya Zanger-Nadis

Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick

Editor: Keren Glicksman

Logo Design: Samuel Vilemar

Outro Music: "Kama Tov" by Shlomo Lipman

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Why Do You Need To Humiliate People This Way? Jun 22, 2025

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Céline Bardet is an international lawyer who has worked in over 50 countries, specializing in war crimes, international justice, post-conflict security, and the prosecution of sexual violence in conflict. She is the founder of We Are NOT Weapons of War (WWoW), a nonprofit organization that develops innovative legal strategies to combat the systematic use of rape as a weapon of war.

In this episode, recorded in Paris in February 2025, we speak with Céline about the resistance she faced within her own community of legal advocates when she began working with survivors of the sexual violence committed during the October 7th attacks. She shares why she ensures that funding for her work in Israel comes from a diverse range of donors—both within and beyond the Jewish community—and how Jewish burial customs have complicated forensic investigations into these crimes. Céline also reflects on the disturbing reactions she has encountered from fellow members of the international feminist legal community, some of whom have suggested that, in the case of Israeli victims, “there must be a reason.”

Join us for this urgent and deeply important conversation.

Content Warning: This episode discusses topics including war, sexual violence, and crimes against humanity.

Host and Creator: Manya Marcus

Managing Producer: Maya Zanger-Nadis

Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick

Editor: Keren Glicksman

Logo Design: Samuel Vilemar

Outro Music: "Im Haya Makom" by Anat Malamud

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Everyone Is Hostile Jun 15, 2025

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Dov Sabo, who was raised in Israel and has lived in the Netherlands for over 25 years, discusses his decision to move from Israel to the Netherlands following his service in the IDF. Coming from a religious background, Dov reflects on how life in the Netherlands initially felt more “relaxed”—until October 7th, when he was jolted awake to a reality his Auschwitz-survivor grandmother had known: that the native Dutch people he had considered friends, were not.

Dov speaks about raising his daughters in the Netherlands, why his grandmother believed Holland was a safe and acceptable place for her grandson to build his adult life, and how the October 7th attacks led him to offer “psychological first aid” to Kibbutz survivors who fled to Eilat.

Hear more about why Dov was in Egypt when the October 7th attacks began, and why Dov's response to the pogrom in Amsterdam on November 8th led many in Israel to believe that this real estate mogul might be a Lyft driver in Amsterdam.

Host and Creator: Manya Marcus

Managing Producer: Maya Zanger-Nadis

Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick

Editor: Keren Glicksman

Logo Design: Samuel Vilemar

Outro Music: "Yesh Mehuma" by Tzlil Dayan

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Participation From The Haredi Community At This Moment Apr 06, 2025

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Raised in Baltimore, Maryland, Rabbi Ari Koretzky (known on campus as “Rabbi K”) made his way to College Park via stops Israel, Ner Israel Rabbinical College and Johns Hopkins University, where he earned a Masters in Creative Nonfiction Writing. Ari brings his passion for Judaism, podcasting (check out “Jews You Should Know“ and "Iyun"!), jetskiing, racquetball, music and more, to his work as Executive Director. Ari lives in Silver Spring, MD with his wife Malka, and their four children – Meir, Rena, Shalom and Ahuva.

Host and Creator: Manya Marcus

Managing Producer: Maya Zanger-Nadis

Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick

Logo Design: Samuel Vilemar

Outro Music: "Elokai" by Tani Polansky

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Zionist: I See Now What The Stakes Are For This Word Mar 30, 2025

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Matthew Schultz is an author and rabbinical student living between Boston and Tel Aviv with his partner Yoav. He is the author of Torat Ha'Aretz, Torah of the Land, a weekly look at the Torah portion through the lens of the Jewish relationship to the land of Israel and the idea of exile.

Torah Ha'Aretz: https://matthewschultz.substack.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/matthew_a_schultz/

Host and Creator: Manya Marcus

Managing Producer: Maya Zanger-Nadis

Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick

Logo Design: Samuel Vilemar

Outro Music: "Kavanot" by Anat Malamud

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More Countries In My Heart Mar 23, 2025

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Sara Dahan is a community builder and mental health enthusiast with a mission to foster belonging, bring difficult topics out of the shadows, and ask big questions. Sara studied neuroscience at MIT with a special interest in developmental cognitive science followed by a degree in epidemiology from NYU focusing on the health of communities. She spent 10 years as a community strategist in Brooklyn where she specialized in nurturing vulnerability and destigmatizing taboo subjects via intimate events and community structural design. Sara recently immigrated to Israel during the Israel-Hamas war to investigate the role of community in building resilience and healing PTSD.

Host and Creator: Manya Marcus

Managing Producer: Maya Zanger-Nadis

Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick

Logo Design: Samuel Vilemar

Outro Music: "I'll Show Everyone" by Tzlil Dayan

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A Word From Our Producer (And Stay Tuned for Season 3!) Mar 19, 2025

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Season 2 has just wrapped, and we’re gearing up for an incredible Season 3.
If you're interested in getting bonus content via email, you can sign up on our website, www.whatcameafter.com.
Don’t forget to check out any episodes you may have missed in our first two seasons, and be sure to follow and subscribe to What Came After wherever you get your podcasts. Season 3 is coming soon and we can’t wait to share it with you!

Jerusalem Will Be a Pot of Reeling Feb 27, 2025

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Nicole Jansezian lives in Jerusalem where she reports on the complicated yet beautiful aspects of this city as well as the challenges facing the people of the Holy Land. She and her husband Tony are part of the Armenian Christian community of Jerusalem and are raising their three children in a crossroads of languages, cultures and religions.

Host and Creator: Manya Marcus

Managing Producer: Maya Zanger-Nadis

Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick

Logo Design: Samuel Vilemar

Outro Music: "Open Our Hearts/Pote'ach et Yadecha" by Minna Bromberg

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Our Moral Victory Is To Focus On Living Feb 16, 2025

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Rafael Aronov is 30 years old and originally from Arad. He now lives in Be'er Sheva and is happily married to Lior. He is the son of two Jewish immigrants from the Soviet Union. Coming from an athletic family, Rafael, and his brother and sister are all martial artists. He is also a special forces police officer and takes pride in serving his country.

Host and Creator: Manya Marcus

Managing Producer: Maya Zanger-Nadis

Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick

Logo Design: Samuel Vilemar

Outro Music: "Yalla" by Elnatan

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The Fact Of The Feeling Feb 02, 2025

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Dr. Hemi Rotenberg is an assistant professor of Biomedical Engineering at the Technion-Israel Institute of Technology. He also happens to be an IDF reservist (used to be less demanding in past years), and since Oct 7th, he has served 8 months in total during three rounds of service. He lives in Kiryat Tiv’on with his wife, four children, and a dog, which he mistakenly brought home a week before the last round of duty.

Host and Creator: Manya Marcus

Managing Producer: Maya Zanger-Nadis

Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick

Logo Design: Samuel Vilemar

Outro Music: "Morning Light" by Elijah Aaron

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Never Have I Dreamt To Come Back This Way Jan 26, 2025

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Roxana Ostrovsky was born and raised in Bucharest, Romania, and has been living in Tel Aviv for the past 20 years. She balances a full-time career in consulting with raising two children in the White City.

Host and Creator: Manya Marcus

Managing Producer: Maya Zanger-Nadis

Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick

Logo Design: Samuel Vilemar

Outro Music: "Beautiful Day" by NURIEL

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In The Beginning, We Were Cooking On The Street Jan 13, 2025

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Rami Zelikovich, born in January 1959, has been the head of the Eldar Barnir Foundation since 2010. A tennis coach for the past 40 years, he spent 19 years in the United States, primarily as a tennis professional. In addition to his work in tennis, Rami has studied music, graphic design, and interactive media—disciplines he continues to practice daily.
Through the foundation, he established a youth tennis circuit, runs a tennis club in Tel Aviv, and founded a coexistence program in Abu Ghosh. Following the events of October 7, 2023, the foundation, in partnership with the J17 vegan restaurant, supported an initiative that provided thousands of vegan meals to soldiers.

Host and Creator: Manya Marcus

Managing Producer: Maya Zanger-Nadis

Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick

Logo Design: Samuel Vilemar

Outro Music: "VaOmar Lach Lo Od" by Rami Zelikovich

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How Could I Ever Leave This Person? Jan 07, 2025

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Chani Turk made Aliyah in 2004 from Chicago to Modiin. She is a wife , mother and nurse midwife. Chani got her midwifery degree from Tel Hashomer and has been in the delivery room there for close to five years.

Host and Creator: Manya Marcus

Managing Producer: Maya Zanger-Nadis

Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick

Logo Design: Samuel Vilemar

Outro Music: "Am Yisrael Chai" by Malkie Levine

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Fighting For Our Homes? Well, I’m Renting Dec 29, 2024

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Greg Kunin is a multilingual comedian with performances in English, Russian, and Hebrew. Born in the Soviet Union, raised in Israel, and having navigated the corporate world in America, Greg brings a sharp and unique perspective on global events and everyday life. In addition to his comedy career, he teaches public speaking and draws from his background as a former entrepreneur. A dedicated family man, Greg has been married for 15 years and is the proud father of two children.
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Host and Creator: Manya Marcus

Managing Producer: Maya Zanger-Nadis

Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick

Logo Design: Samuel Vilemar

Outro Music: "Everything’s OK" by Elijah Aaron

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It Felt Like Filming At Auschwitz Dec 22, 2024

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Yoni Collins is an award-winning Israeli-Canadian filmmaker and activist. After serving as a lone soldier in the Israel Defense Forces, he studied film in both Canada and Israel.

He works as a filmmaker and videographer in the film, music, and commercial industries. His filmmaking largely deals with war, Judaism, antisemitism, and PTSD. Since the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war, Yoni has been volunteering, filming, and documenting the October 7 massacre and its aftermath, the war itself, and the legal and political campaigns for the hostages in service to his people and country.

Host and Creator: Manya Marcus

Managing Producer: Maya Zanger-Nadis

Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick

Logo Design: Samuel Vilemar

Outro Music: "Makom Bli De'aga" by Elnatan

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This Is How I Serve Dec 15, 2024

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Sarit Gradwohl is a writer, lecturer and social worker. She holds bachelor's degrees in film & television, majoring in screenwriting (2004), and social work (2007), from Tel Aviv University, as well as a master's degree in social work (2024) from Haifa University. Her first book “Sapari Tama Temima” was published by Pardes Publishing House (2014), and its English translation “Hamama” was published on Amazon (2019). Her second book, “All About Sophie” funded by the Rabinovitch Foundation, and published as part of the Pere series by Tal-May Publishing (2023). Sarit also published many short stories in various journals, including “Sagol-Tchelet” (2022), “Be’er” (2023) and “Lekol-Haruhot” (2024) and many others. After ten years in Skokie, Illinois, Sarit returned to her hometown of Pardes Hanna, where she works in the social services department of the Community and Welfare, and where she coordinates the “Boys’ Circle” program for the town’s youth. When not busy with social work, writing, or parenting, Sarit lectures on the history and culture of Yemenite Jews, including the history of the Yemenite, Balkan and Mizarahi Children's Affair.
Host and Creator: Manya Marcus

Managing Producer: Maya Zanger-Nadis

Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick

Logo Design: Samuel Vilemar

Outro Music: "HaPachad Roked" by Anat Malamud

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The Families Came Back Dec 08, 2024

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Yisrael Tsadok is an educator, both by profession and at heart. Formerly an Israeli shaliach at the Chicago Jewish Day School, Yisrael is now the Director of Education for Kibbutz Nir Am. Yisrael is proud to be the husband of Tammy and the father of their five amazing children.

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Host and Creator: Manya Marcus

Managing Producer: Maya Zanger-Nadis

Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick

Logo Design: Samuel Vilemar

Outro Music: "Ein Li Eretz Acheret" by Yonina

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The Bars Are Full, The Beach Is Full, And The Beit Midrash Is Full Dec 01, 2024

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Joe Wolfson is the co-director and rabbi of JLIC TLV - a community of young olim in Tel Aviv working in partnership with local synagogues and organisations. From 2015 to 2022, he served as the JLIC Rabbi at NYU in downtown Manhattan. He is passionate about building welcoming Jewish communities in urban environments that are deeply connected to their surroundings. In 2020, he was recognized as one of The Jewish Week’s 36 under 36 for his Covid relief work.

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Host and Creator: Manya Marcus

Managing Producer: Maya Zanger-Nadis

Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick

Logo Design: Samuel Vilemar

Outro Music: "Modeh Ani" by Elijah Aaron

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About the Music (Stay Tuned for Season 2!) Nov 10, 2024

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A note about our music as we wrap up Season 1 and prepare for Season 2.

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Host and Creator: Manya Marcus

Managing Producer: Maya Zanger-Nadis

Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick

Logo Design: Samuel Vilemar

Stones In My Pocket Nov 03, 2024

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On October 7th, defying his commander's orders, Nimrod Palmach traveled south towards the border, where he faced and eliminated over 30 Hamas terrorists. Preventing the terrorists from entering Kibbutz Alumim as well as Kibbutz Be'eri, he saved hundreds of Jewish lives. Hailed a "hero" by many international news outlets, including Fox News USA, ABC News UK, CBN News, Sky News Australia, and the Jerusalem Post, Nimrod has rejoined as a reservist in the IDF during the current Gaza/Israel war.
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Host and Creator: Manya Marcus

Managing Producer: Maya Zanger-Nadis

Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick

Logo Design: Hallel Gradwohl and Maya Zanger-Nadis

Outro Music: "Noshem" by Elnatan

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Tiny Little Minds Oct 27, 2024

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Talya Tomer is an Israeli social entrepreneur in community-based placemaking. As the spouse of a IDF reservist and mother of three ages 2, 6, 8, her personal experiences since October 7th have deeply influenced her recent projects.
In response to the ongoing war, Tomer has been supporting children affected by the war. She authored and spearheaded the publication and distribution of two children’s books, designed for the kids of reservists and those displaced from their homes. Aimed at providing understanding and comfort in a reality where the adults around don’t always have the words, these books have been printed and distributed to 30,000 families, thanks to a combination of donations and community efforts. They can be purchased in Israel via this website.
Tomer is a graduate of Bezalel Academy of Arts and Design.

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Host and Creator: Manya Marcus

Managing Producer: Maya Zanger-Nadis

Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick

Logo Design: Hallel Gradwohl and Maya Zanger-Nadis

Outro Music: "Lose It" by Elnatan

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Start Me Up, I’ll Never Stop Oct 20, 2024

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Since 1982, Jeff Seidel has introduced thousands of Jewish college students to their first Shabbat experience as well as offered free tours and classes through his Jewish Student Centers at Hebrew University in Jerusalem, Tel Aviv University, Ben-Gurion University in Beersheba, and IDC in Herzliya. He has lived in Jerusalem’s Old City for over thirty years and connected tens of thousands to the Land of Israel. He has also authored “The Jewish Traveler’s Resource Guide,” which lists Shabbat placement programs around the world.

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Host and Creator: Manya Marcus

Managing Producer: Maya Zanger-Nadis

Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick

Logo Design: Samuel Vilemar

Outro Music: "Valley (Jack Shorr Remix)" by NURIEL
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One Unit, One Team, One Group, One Family Oct 11, 2024

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Mazal Tazazo, an Ethiopian Israeli woman who volunteers with at-risk youth, was forced to run once the terrorists infiltrated the Nova festival on October 7, 2023. One of the terrorists hit her in the head with his rifle, then dragged her across an open field. As she regained consciousness, she felt them tying her up with rope, straightening her legs and coming closer to her. As they reached toward her face, she played dead by holding her breath. They left her for dead in the field. By playing dead, she managed to survive.

Remo Alhuziyel, a Bedouin police officer, was one of the first responders to arrive at the scene of the Nova festival. Remo was supposed to start his shift in security for the festival in Re'im at 6:30 a.m., but he was early for his shift and immediately got caught up in the fighting with Hamas terrorists. He rescued hundreds of people who were at the festival. _________________________________________________________________________________________

Host and Creator: Manya Marcus

Managing Producer: Maya Zanger-Nadis

Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick

Logo Design: Samuel Vilemar

Outro Music: "Caught in a Flame" by NURIEL
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I Was Sent By The Future Oct 06, 2024

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Michael Starr is the Diaspora affairs correspondent for The Jerusalem Post, covering global Jewish affairs, antisemitism, and radical anti-Israel activities. Previously, Starr was the correspondent for legal affairs and police affairs. Starr is a veteran of the October 7 war and earned a BA in government and diplomacy and an MA in security studies at Reichman University.

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Host and Creator: Manya Marcus

Managing Producer: Maya Zanger-Nadis

Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick

Logo Design: Samuel Vilemar

Outro Music: "Abba" by Elijah Aaron
Listen on Spotify or Apple Music

The Show Must Go On Sep 29, 2024

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Racheli Konstantyn is an American-Israeli singer, actor and performer located in Ramat Gan, Israel. Trained at the Ono School of Music in Kiryat Ono, Racheli has a passion for storytelling and a dream of performing on Broadway. You can follow Racheli on Instagram.

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Host and Creator: Manya Marcus

Managing Producer: Maya Zanger-Nadis

Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick

Logo Design: Samuel Vilemar

Outro Music: "Alfonsina Y El Mar" by Mercedes Sosa, performed by Racheli Konstantyn
Listen to the original on Spotify or Apple Music
Listen to Racheli's performance on Instagram or Facebook

What Is Your Wound? Sep 22, 2024

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Aleeza is the creator, writer, and lead actor of HOT’s scripted comedy-drama Chanshi, produced by Kastina Productions. Brooklyn-born and raised, Chanowitz moved to Israel in 2011 and attended the Sam Spiegel Film School in Jerusalem.

Chanowitz is currently developing her second series with Kastina, Big Crater (featured in the Sam Spiegel Series Lab), as well as a limited series adaptation of Zeruya Shalev’s best-selling Love Life for HOT.

She lives in Tel Aviv with her husband and gorgeous daughter.

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Host and Creator: Manya Marcus

Managing Producer: Maya Zanger-Nadis

Editor and Producer: Ben Wallick

Logo Design: Samuel Vilemar

Outro Music: ⁠⁠"Leviatan" by Orian Shukrun and Ohad Darshan
Listen on Spotify or Apple Music

Hair Stories Sep 15, 2024

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Debra Neal, a current resident of Jerusalem, has 15 years of experience in the hair care industry. Debra is originally from Bakersfield, California, where she trained as a hairstylist after the recession in 2008. In 2014, Debra moved to Israel to continue her career. She has provided hair care to soldiers during the current war and continues to bring beauty and smiles to everyone around her. For more info about Debra or to book an appointment, check out her Instagram: @hair.stories_with.deb.

Tell Me What You Need Sep 08, 2024

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After October 7th, Arye started a Facebook group called Jerusalem Helping Others, which focuses on volunteering for soldiers and evacuees centered in and around Jerusalem. He participates in such activities weekly, knowing from firsthand experience what is required during wartime. You can also follow his activities (and twice-a-year sales) on the Instagram page Jerusalem_Books_and _Comics.
Outro music: "Nafshi" by Yonina, cover by Noah Bar-Shain and Meir Kreitman

No One Is Going To Save You Sep 01, 2024

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Evgenia Barushtray was born in Kharkiv, Ukraine, and now lives outside Tel Aviv. She is an artist, whose work can be found here. You can also follow Evgenia on Instagram.

Outro Song: Metzapim by Nuriel

Medicine Knows No Boundaries Aug 25, 2024

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Born in Israel, Dr. Nesrin Abu Ata attended Ben Gurion Medical School, where she focused on global health. Learn more about Dr. Abu Ata on her website, Facebook, and Instagram. She also hosts a podcast, My Grandmother's Blessings. Outro song: Brave Souls by Elijah Aaron.

How Are You Here Right Now? Aug 18, 2024

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Yocheved Kim Ruttenberg is a 23-year-old woman who sprang into action after the war broke out, raising thousands of dollars in donations. She came to Israel in late October and has been coordinating volunteer trips through the Sword of Iron volunteer Facebook group, which now has over 30,000 members.
Outro song: Pashut Hashir by Anat Malamud

Keep Doing It Aug 18, 2024

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Chana Boteach is the CEO of the Kosher Company and lives in Israel. The company has a store in Jerusalem or can be accessed online at www.kosher..

Chana believes that sexuality has become impersonalized and devalued, resulting in loneliness, failure to connect and sexual boredom. She hopes to bring the erotic secrets of Judaism to a universal, 21st century audience and reclaim the true power of sexual intimacy.

Outro song: women, life, freedom by Shifra Jacobs.

Now We Are The Research Aug 18, 2024

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Supernova survivor Shye Klein moved from rural Canada to Israel in 2023 after he developed a deep connection to the land and its people. You can find Shye through his website.
Outro song: Sparks by Bizarre Contact and Bubble.

Introduction Aug 04, 2024

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We’re thrilled to announce the launch of our new podcast, What Came After.

What Came After is hosted by Manya Marcus, an American psychotherapist who will interview public figures and private citizens about the heartbreaking events of October 7th and the subsequent Israel-Hamas war.
We will bring you moving, inspiring stories you won't hear anywhere else, shedding light on perspectives that are often overlooked. Season 1 coming Aug. 18.

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