Unholy: Two Jews on the News
Unholy Media
Yonit Levi of Israel's Channel 12 News and Jonathan Freedland of The Guardian are two of the most prominent journalists in the world today. They are also Jews. Each week, join what MSNBC's Rachel Maddow calls "two great, smart smart smart hosts" as they dissect and debate current events shaping Israel, Jewish life - and the wider world.
Their blend of nuanced discussion and sparkling conversation, featuring a dazzling range of guests, is why New Yorker editor David Remnick calls himself a “proud, avid listener," why Ira Glass says he "completely enjoys this show" and why Malcolm Gladwell calls it an "incredibly fun podcast".
For a weekly fix of globally informed talk – including nominations for the greatest act of chutzpah and outstanding mensch of the previous seven days – there’s only one destination. Make every Friday morning Unholy.
Contact us via: unholy@unholy-media.com
Their blend of nuanced discussion and sparkling conversation, featuring a dazzling range of guests, is why New Yorker editor David Remnick calls himself a “proud, avid listener," why Ira Glass says he "completely enjoys this show" and why Malcolm Gladwell calls it an "incredibly fun podcast".
For a weekly fix of globally informed talk – including nominations for the greatest act of chutzpah and outstanding mensch of the previous seven days – there’s only one destination. Make every Friday morning Unholy.
Contact us via: unholy@unholy-media.com
Episodes
Mentioned books
7 snips
Sep 9, 2025 • 16min
Emergency update - Strike on Hamas in Qatar
Amos Harel, a military affairs analyst for Haaretz, joins the discussion to unpack Israel's unprecedented military action against Hamas in Qatar. The conversation dives into the complex motivations behind the strikes, whether tactical responses or strategic disruptions in negotiations. Harel explores regional implications and the shifting power dynamics in the Middle East. The dialogue also touches on the intricate challenges of hostage negotiations and the potential effects on Israel's political landscape.
22 snips
Sep 4, 2025 • 1h 14min
Day 700: Plans for Gaza City conquest and the IDF reservists’ dilemma
Yudha Lapian, an IDF reservist and community manager for veterans, joins Yotam Vilk, a Reserve captain who fought in Gaza, to discuss the moral dilemmas facing soldiers. They explore Israel's complex military strategies and the emotional toll of war. Yotam reveals why he refuses to return to Gaza while Yudha shares insights from his service. The conversation also touches on internal debates within Israel regarding military actions, the impact on civilian life, and the role of reserve forces in shaping national security.
60 snips
Aug 28, 2025 • 1h 5min
Israeli protests, White House talks and a pilgrimage sparks fury - with Shira Efron
Join Shira Efron, Distinguished Israel Policy Chair at the RAND Corporation, as she shares insights from her two decades of Middle East policy analysis. The discussion dives into the surge of Israeli protests demanding a hostage deal amidst stalled political processes. Efron highlights the disconnect between the cabinet and public sentiment, the complexities of military strategies in Gaza, and the urgent need for new diplomatic engagements. The chat also touches on the surreal scene of Haredi pilgrims as societal tensions rise in Israel.
23 snips
Aug 21, 2025 • 33min
Unholy Around the Globe: Being Jewish in Buenos Aires with Pablo Mendez Shiff
Pablo Mendez Shiff, an Argentine writer and journalist known for his insightful commentary, discusses the unique aspects of Jewish life in Buenos Aires. He dives into Argentina's complex stance on Israel and the challenges faced by the local Jewish community amid rising antisemitism. Their conversation highlights the community's resilience and rich cultural history, as well as the impact of political dynamics on Jewish identity. Plus, they touch on the optimism brought by initiatives like a kosher cafe that employs disabled youth.
36 snips
Aug 14, 2025 • 1h 29min
The Gaza Plan, tension between Netanyahu and the IDF, and the Arab vote - with co-host Suleiman Maswadeh and Nomi Kaltmann
Suleiman Maswadeh, a diplomatic correspondent for Channel 11, and Nomi Kaltmann, a journalist and President of the Jewish Orthodox Feminist Alliance in Australia, delve into complex issues surrounding the Gaza conflict. They discuss the rising tensions between Israel's political leaders and the military, the implications for future Arab voting, and the challenges of media coverage in Gaza. Nomi also reflects on the Australian Jewish community's response to rising antisemitism, showcasing the resilience and empowerment within the Orthodox community.
12 snips
Aug 7, 2025 • 1h 11min
Occupying Gaza, the Draft Bill, and Being Jewish in Germany - with guest co-host Ruth Margalit
Ruth Margalit, a journalist from The New Yorker, alongside Ilanit Spinner, a prominent German journalist, dives deep into pressing topics like Israel's potential reoccupation of Gaza and the ongoing draft bill tensions. They explore how media narratives shape public perceptions and discuss the complexities of Jewish identity in contemporary Germany. Personal anecdotes highlight resilience in the face of rising anti-Semitism and how current events impact Jewish communities beyond Israel's borders, stirring rich conversations on solidarity and shared experiences.
10 snips
Aug 1, 2025 • 59min
As Israel faces diplomatic tsunami, has Trump had enough of Bibi? - with Amos Harel
Amos Harel, a military and defense analyst for Haaretz, joins to dissect the tense political landscape as Trump distances himself from Netanyahu and the UK moves to recognize a Palestinian state. Key issues include Israel's recent humanitarian aid pauses in Gaza and the intricate dynamics shaping aid distribution amid the ongoing crisis. The conversation explores the emotional toll of the conflict, the shifting U.S. influence, and critiques various leadership approaches. Harel offers insights into the evolving military tactics and the dire humanitarian reality for civilians caught in the turmoil.
17 snips
Jul 25, 2025 • 1h 5min
Desperation Grows Worldwide: When Will the War End? - with Thomas Friedman
In this discussion, Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Thomas Friedman shares insights on the deepening humanitarian crisis in Gaza and its disturbing emotional toll. He addresses the political upheaval in Israel's Knesset and the rising dissatisfaction among the public concerning recent government actions. Friedman also explores shifting American attitudes towards Israel, the complex dynamics between Israeli leadership and Donald Trump, and the urgent need for a proactive approach to peace-building in the region.
12 snips
Jul 17, 2025 • 1h 11min
Netanyahu’s Clock of War, MAGA Turns on Israel, and Coalition Cracks - with Ilana Dayan
Ilana Dayan, a prominent Israeli journalist and host of Uvda, joins the conversation to analyze the ongoing conflict in Gaza and its political ramifications. They discuss Netanyahu’s controversial decisions leading up to October 7th, revealing the increasing criticism from unexpected quarters, including the American MAGA right. The discussion highlights the evolving dynamics within Israel's ruling coalition and the implications of recent military actions in Syria. Dayan also offers insights into the humanitarian crisis, urging for serious dialogue around peace.
11 snips
Jul 11, 2025 • 1h 22min
Netanyahu in DC, stuttering ceasefire talks, and a conversation with Rachel Goldberg-Polin
In this discussion, Rachel Goldberg-Polin, a dedicated Jewish educator and advocate for Israeli hostages, shares her heartbreaking journey as the mother of Hersh, who was killed by Hamas. She conveys the complexities of grief while navigating the ongoing violence and antisemitism. The hosts delve into Netanyahu's Washington visit and a controversial Gaza plan, while highlighting the emotional struggles faced by families of hostages, calling for compassion and understanding in these turbulent times.
