Inside Call Me Back Inside Call Me Back

Jon Polin answers questions from young Jewish adults

Aug 21, 2026 · 48m

Summary

In this members-only episode, Dan Benishek hosts John Polin to answer questions from young Jewish listeners. Polin addresses the distinction between Zionism and extremist violence, the social costs of pro-Israel advocacy, and finding Jewish joy outside traditional religion. He also reflects on the treatment of hostage families, the impact of his son Hirsch on captors, and his new initiative, Foundry 515, aimed at rebuilding Jewish confidence and purpose.

Topics discussed

Introduction and welcome to Inside Call Me Back John Polin's connection with young Jewish audiences Addressing settler violence and defining Zionism Social costs of being pro-Israel and healthy disagreement Religious practice, Jewish identity, and finding joy Community movements and personal religious rituals Israeli society's response to the hostage crisis Hirsch Polin's captivity and Viktor Frankl's philosophy The significance of 515 and the Foundry initiative John Polin's journey to making Aliyah to Israel
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