The Wildescast

Last night at MJE’s Yom HaShoah event, we had the honor of hearing from Dr. Aliza Erber, a Holocaust survivor, medical doctor, and chaplain. As a hidden child during the war, Dr. Erber lost both of her parents in concentration camps. Her story was raw, powerful, and deeply moving. Over 100 people gathered to hear her speak and every single one left impacted. What made the evening even more meaningful was her honesty. She didn’t sugarcoat the trauma, and in doing so, gave everyone present a deeper appreciation of the strength, courage, and resilience of our people. May her words continue to echo, and may we never forget.

In this powerful and thought-provoking episode, Rabbi Mark Wildes is joined by Dr. Norm Weisman, the voice behind the acclaimed podcast Unpacking Israeli History. Together, they dive deep into the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, explore the historical roots of Gaza, and ask the difficult questions: Is the two-state solution still viable? How should Israel be taught to the next generation—both Jewish and non-Jewish? What role does bias, history, and education play in shaping our understanding of Zionism? What are the biggest misconceptions about Hamas and Palestinian leadership? Dr. Weisman shares personal insights from decades of Israel education and breaks down complex issues with clarity and honesty, offering a nuanced look at one of the most polarizing topics of our time. 👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to stay updated on future episodes. 🎧 Listen to Dr. Weisman’s podcast: Unpacking Israeli History 🔔 Follow for more deep dives into Jewish thought, modern Israel, and meaningful conversation. #Israel #Gaza #Zionism #JewishEducation #MiddleEastConflict #UnpackingIsraeliHistory

In this powerful episode of The Wilds Cast, we sit down with Natan Sharansky, a Soviet dissident, human rights activist, and former Israeli politician. Sharansky shares his harrowing experiences as a political prisoner in the Soviet Gulag, where he endured nine years of imprisonment, and his fight for Jewish freedom during the Cold War. We dive into: ✅ His extraordinary journey from Soviet oppression to Israeli leadership ✅ The refusenik movement and the struggle of Jews in the USSR ✅ How he survived years of solitary confinement with resilience and faith ✅ His political career in Israel, standing against disengagement from Gaza ✅ Modern antisemitism, the challenges faced by Jewish students, and his message to young Jews today ✅ His thoughts on Trump’s peace plan, Israel’s future, and the fight against Hamas Sharansky’s story of courage, conviction, and unwavering identity is a must-listen for anyone passionate about freedom, Jewish history, and human rights. 🔔 Subscribe & Share this episode with your friends!

What does it take to turn unimaginable tragedy into a source of strength and inspiration? 💔➡️💪 In this powerful episode of The Wilds Cast, I sit down with Rabbanit Racheli Frankel, a true beacon of resilience and wisdom. After losing her son Naftali in 2014, she has dedicated her life to uniting the Jewish people and strengthening our faith. 🇮🇱✨ We dive deep into: 🔹 How her personal loss connects to the pain of October 7th 🔹 The emotional complexity of hostage negotiations 🔹 Rising antisemitism and the global Jewish response 🔹 The rapid growth of women’s Torah scholarship 📖👩‍🏫 🔹 Finding hope and joy even in the darkest times Rabbanit Frankel’s perspective is both heart-wrenching and uplifting, a reminder that even through sorrow, we can choose gratitude, strength, and faith. 🌿✡️ 🎧 Tune in now and let us know what resonated with you the most in the comments! 👇💬 #JewishStrength #Resilience #Faith #Podcast #Israel #Torah #JewishWomen #JewishLearning #Hope #JewishCommunity

In this episode, rapper and activist Kosha Dillz takes us on a journey through his music, identity, and resilience. From performing on college campuses and tackling misconceptions about Israel to crafting lyrics that resonate and spark dialogue, Kosha shares the highs and challenges of his unique path. He opens up about overcoming addiction, the influence of Jewish values like tzedakah, and the strength that carried him through tough times. We also dive into his creative process, his experiences performing for IDF soldiers, and the reactions to his Chanukah songs and recent tracks inspired by pivotal events. Tune in for a powerful conversation that bridges hip-hop, faith, and activism. 0:00 Introduction 0:58 Welcome Kosha Dillz 2:09 Performing on College Campuses 4:36 Does doing this feel dangerous? 6:30 Rap That Resonates 8:20 Misconceptions About Israel 13:35 The social scene of anti-Israel protests 15:59 Songs since 10/7 22:02 Chanukah Song and Reactions on Campus 23:28 What kind of schools book you? 26:29 How do you work on your rap? 29:13 Time on Wild 'n Out 31:49 How has your jewish identity influenced your music? 33:51 Tzedakah 37:27 Overcoming addiction 39:50 What kept you strong during tough times? 43:47 Performing for IDF Soldiers 48:14 Chanukah Concert and Songs 49:38 Outro

Join us for an inspiring and thought-provoking conversation with Supreme Court Justice Richard Bernstein, a longtime friend of MJE and a true testament to perseverance and vision. Born blind, Justice Bernstein has defied expectations, becoming a trailblazer in law, an advocate for peace, and a marathon runner who challenges limits in every aspect of life. In this episode, we delve into his remarkable journey, including his role in advancing the Abraham Accords and promoting peace in the Middle East. Justice Bernstein shares profound insights on the beauty of his disability, his unwavering faith in God, and how it has shaped his perspective on justice, resilience, and advocacy. 0:00 Introduction 2:43 Serving as a Judge in MI 4:00 Resilience 10:15 Resilience 15:15 Identifying Purpose Through Judaism 16:02 Wrongful Convictions 20:34 Flint Water Case 23:26 Talmudic Perspective on Wrongful Convictions 24:18 Has DNA Been Helpful in Court? 28:47 Overcoming Adversity with One's Mission 35:26 Disability Advocacy in the Middle East 50:04 Importance if the Abraham Accords 52:18 Rabbi Nebenzahl 59:07 Everybody is Touched by Disability 1:00:32 Perception of Disabilities in the Arab World 1:04:25 Collaboration with a Sheikh 1:07:21 Peace with Saudi Arabia 1:08:41 Opening MI Back Up During Covid 1:11:15 Long Term Consequences of Covid Lockdown 1:13:56 Bringing People Together 1:16:23 Conclusion

0:00 Introduction 1:32 Academic Pursuits & Religious Values 14:48 Misunderstandings of Observance 21:20 Judaism in Politics 31:04 The Limits of Orthodox Theology 44:54 Challenges Facing Jewish Identity 53:44 How to Handle Israel Condemnation 1:03:28 Student Interest in Judaism 1:09:57 Wrapping Up

0:00 Introduction 1:50 Notions of Peace 6:31 This Semester at Columbia 11:39 Continuing to Teach at Columbia 14:36 Sending Kids to Antisemitic Institutions 22:21 Choosing to Fight Back 28:29 Fight for Jewish Civil Rights 34:17 Israeli vs. Diaspora Jews 43:10 Preserving Jewish Identity 55:59 Why is Judaism worth defending? 59:21 Political Labels 1:00 Wrapping Up

0:00 Introduction 2:04 Welcome 7:17 Camp HASC 17:14 American Jews Giving to Israel 21:39 Negativity in the Media 26:13 Thinking Differently Than Others 30:33 Teshuvah 39:49 How Do We Find Joy? 43:33 Preparing for the High Holidays 51:29 Jewish Self-Identity 1:00:00 Wrapping Up

0:00 Introduction 3:07 Is War With Hezbollah Inevitable? 11:25 American Involvement in the War 13:02 Update on the Hostages 16:17 Post War Gaza 29:40 Presidential Elections 44:04 What Can Americans Do? 51:32 Wrapping Up

0:00 - Welcome 8:58 - Western Indulgence of the Palestinian Dream 15:45 - Oslo Accords & 2 State Solution 26:35 - Trump Administration 32:31 - Abraham Accords 45:39 - University Protests & Encampments 58:01 - How to Stay Informed

00:00 Introduction 1:28 Welcome 2:24 War With Iran 6:23 Elimination Hamas 7:56 United States Pushback 11:45 Voting in the US 17:26 Relations in the Middle East 22:55 Reminding our Enemies 26:02 Justifying October 7 28:15 Fear in American Jews 30:49 Giving Hope 34:57 Youth in America 37:07 Gaza Casualties Misconception 38:20 Challenges Faced by the IDF 38:51 Learning History 40:59 Wrapping Up Website: jewishexperience.org Facebook: facebook.com/ManhattanJewishExperience/ Instagram: instagram.com/M_J_experience/

0:00 Introduction 2:18 Exodus Story 5:46 Impact of Progressivism 10:42 Lack of Jewish History Education in the US 16:30 Political Divide For Jews in America 22:47 Tikkun Olam 24:58 Inspiration & Motivation 27:43 Saving the Diaspora 31:22 Judaism & Medicine 34:06 Exposure & Media Platform 37:24 Physical Violence & Self Defense 43:26 First Generation Perspective 46:40 Desire For Acceptance of Jews 48:43 Treating a Terrorist 50:00 Wrapping Up

In this insightful conversation, Rabbi Wildes and Hillel Fuld dissect key points shaping Israel's trajectory, shedding light on the geopolitical landscape and societal dynamics. They navigate through the intersections of technology, innovation, and advocacy, offering profound insights into how these forces have influenced Israel's narrative and global standing since October 7th. 0:00 - Intro 1:36 - Welcome 2:22 - October 7 5:57 - Advocating for Israel 6:22 - Truths vs. Lies on Social Media 9:48 - Genocide Allegations 11:33 - Hezbollah Attacks 13:13 - Who's Going to Replace Hamas? 18:33 - Global Antisemitism 25:36 - Living in Israel 36:58 - Opposing Mentalities 40:47 - Tech in Israel Since October 7 49:25 - Support for Israel 51:08 - Miracles for Israel 54:10 - Wrapping Up Website: jewishexperience.org Facebook: facebook.com/ManhattanJewishExperience/ Instagram: instagram.com/M_J_experience/

Held at MJE on February 14th, Rabbi Mark Wildes taught a class on the Dos & Don't of Dating. This discussion dives into Jewish teachings that offer valuable insights for everyone, regardless of background. Discover practical tips for navigating relationships and finding love in today's world.

My remarks from the funeral of my beloved father. To see the whole ceremony click here: https://www.legacycelebrated.com/leon-wildes/ May we only know Simchas

On January 3rd, Rabbi Mark Wildes taught an insightful class titled "The Blame Game: Taking Responsibility For Our Lives," listeners are encouraged to shift their perspective on life's challenges. Rabbi Wildes delves into the concept of not externalizing failures and struggles but instead taking ownership and responsibility for one's life.

In this compelling episode of the Wildescast, Rabbi Mark Wildes engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Yahya Mahamid, an extraordinary guest who defies expectations as an Arab Muslim IDF soldier. Raised in an anti-zionist Arab community in Israel, Yahya shares his remarkable journey of self-discovery and the transformative experiences that led him to embrace a passionate commitment to Zionism and the State of Israel. Through candid dialogue, they explore the complexities of identity, coexistence, and what things have been like since the war against Hamas began. Join Rabbi Mark Wildes and Yahya Mahamid as they delve into a narrative that challenges preconceptions and fosters understanding

In this gripping and emotionally charged episode, Rabbi Mark Wildes sits down with a truly extraordinary guest, Maya Parizer. Join us as Maya bravely shares her harrowing experience at the Nova Music Festival in Israel on October 7th. On that fateful day, as the festival was underway, Hamas unleashed an unthinkable act of violence, resulting in the tragic loss of over 360 innocent lives. The festival was part of a wider Hamas attack on Israel on Oct. 7 that claimed approximately 1,400 lives Maya, along with her fiancé Ron, found themselves amidst the chaos and horror, narrowly escaping the massacre. In this interview, she recounts the heart-wrenching moments, reflecting on the resilience that allowed her to survive and share her story today. 00:00:00 - Intro 00:02:37 - Maya's Story 00:12:03 - Escaping the Nova Festival 00:17:48 - October 7th 2023 00:25:23 - The Kibbutz 00:31:15 - The Response From The Public 00:37:19 - Why Do People Deny The Truth? 00:40:19 - The Atrocities 00:42:08 - Israel Getting Scapegoated 00:43:53 - How Do We Achieve Peace? 00:46:41 - Living Your Best Life After Surviving a Tragedy 00:49:22 - Wrapping Up

Israel's Journey of Hope & Resilience | Rabbi Efrem Goldberg | Ruth Wildes Lecture | Chanukah 2023