Truth, Fiction, and the Modern Golem with Roger Simon

In this thought-provoking episode, Rabbi Avi sits down with Academy Award-nominated screenwriter and legendary journalist Roger Simon. From the heart of secular Hollywood to becoming a leading voice in conservative journalism, Roger discusses the personal and geopolitical catalysts—including 9/11 and the events of October 7th—that shaped his spiritual and political evolution.The conversation centers on Roger’s latest work of theological fiction, EMET. We explore why fiction is sometimes the only way to reach the heart of the facts, the mystical resurgence of the Golem in the 21st century, and the delicate balance between Divine trust (Bitachon) and human effort (Hishtadlut).Featured Guest: Roger SimonRoger Simon is an Oscar-nominated screenwriter (Enemies, A Love Story), author of the Moses Wine detective series, and co-founder of PJ Media. He is currently a columnist for The Epoch Times and a prolific novelist.Connect with Roger:  Read his latest novel: EMET: A Novel https://www.amazon.com/EMET-Roger-Simon-ebook/dp/B0GNX8X9YW  Roger Simon on Substack: https://substack.com/@rogersimon  Journalism at The Epoch Times: https://www.theepochtimes.com/author/roger-l-simonKey Discussion Points: The Hollywood Pivot: Roger discusses his transformation from a Yale grad student and civil rights worker to a conservative journalist, triggered by the O.J. Simpson trial and 9/11. The Concept of "Chosenness": Moving from discomfort with the term to understanding it as a "burden" and a responsibility to unite with the Divine.  The Modern Golem: Why Roger chose the ancient legend of the Golem—a creature of clay animated by the word Emet (Truth)—to address the horrors of October 7th and the Iranian missile attacks. Kabbalah and Rationalism: Exploring the practical advice found within Jewish mysticism and how it informs Roger's "Kosher Light" lifestyle. The Role of Fiction: Why journalism and political commentary sometimes fail to capture the "history behind the curtain" in a way that a novel can. Antisemitism in Modern Institutions: A candid look at the failures of elite universities and the shifting tides of the "Woke Right."Episode Resources & Mentions: Rabbinic Literature: Mentions of Yetzer HaRa and Yetzer HaTov* in the works of Rabbi Shneur Zalman of Liadi. Literary References: Isaac Bashevis Singer’s Enemies, A Love Story; Karel Čapek’s R.U.R.* (which invented the word "robot"); and the Golem works of Elie Wiesel.  Amit Segal: Amit Segal’s Daily Updates (Telegram/Email). Pirkei Avot 2:16: "It is not your duty to finish the work, but neither are you at liberty to neglect it."Support The Rabbi Avi Show:If you enjoyed this deep-dive conversation, please consider supporting our mission to explore the intersection of theology, journalism, and Jewish life.Support us on Patreon: patreon.com/horizontalmediaFollow Rabbi Avi: Stay connected for more "Horizontal Conversations" on Jewish thought and modern reality.Closing Thought: "Trust God and pass the ammunition."