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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