The Actual

In this episode of The Actual, my incredible guest is Ben Carasso - the “Spokeskid of Israel”. Ben has been representing Israeli children on the global stage since the age of 8. Now 11, Ben has led advocacy tours across 8 countries, spoken at the UN and UK Parliament, and uses his platform to share how life is for Israeli children with a foreground of war. Having lived through multiple military operations and the aftermath of October 7, Ben describes the immense ongoing trauma and fear children experience and how children's experiences are often overlooked in global conversations. He is also the force behind #RememberTheChildren, a digital memorial honoring young lives lost too soon. Original music in this episode Kama At Yafa (כמה את יפה) performed by CHUTNEY, from the album Ajar (2024). Courtesy of CHUTNEY/Ben Adler. Used with permission.

In this episode of The Actual we are joined by Robert Goldshaft, the CEO of Mosaic Living, to better understand community living for Jewish seniors in Australia. Mosaic Living is a not-for-profit organisation and one of the largest providers of affordable housing for Jews. Originally established to support Holocaust survivors, it continues to serve the Jewish community by offering independent living environments that balance privacy with strong community support. Robert explains how their model works from affordable entry structures to rental options and how they maintain below-market living costs while ensuring residents feel secure and supported. Mosaic Living creates spaces where residents can remain independent while still being part of a close-knit community. This conversation is about the role of community in aging and how connection, familiarity, and shared identity can shape a better quality of life for the elderly. Original music in this episode Kama At Yafa (כמה את יפה) performed by CHUTNEY, from the album Ajar (2024). Courtesy of CHUTNEY/Ben Adler. Used with permission.

In this episode, Michelle Scheibner tells the story of how she uncovered her Jewish identity later in life and how a major family secret led her to a journey of discovering crucial parts of herself. Michelle reveals her intergenerational trauma, inherited stories, and the empty spaces throughout her life and inside her psyche. Through her book Hush, Michelle explores how emotional inheritance influences our choices, our sense of belonging, and the lives we create. This episode brings into focus on how courage can be found and the importance of finding one’s voice and community in a world increasingly marked by division and rising antisemitism. Original music in this episode Kama At Yafa (כמה את יפה) performed by CHUTNEY, from the album Ajar (2024). Courtesy of CHUTNEY/Ben Adler. Used with permission.

In this episode of The Actual we are joined by Stephen McAlpine, a Christian cultural commentator, public theologian, and former pastor of nearly three decades. Stephen describes the impact on Australia of the ongoing rise of disinformation and antisemitism following October 7, and what it reveals about the deeper fractures in the West. Stephen reveals his perspective from years of working with churches and faith-based communities, as we explore faith at this time, the role of Christianity in shaping how we see others, and how Jewish and Christian communities are responding with a desire for understanding. We also reflect on how we choose to stand for truth while still building bridges in an increasingly divided world. Original music in this episode Kama At Yafa (כמה את יפה) performed by CHUTNEY, from the album Ajar (2024). Courtesy of CHUTNEY/Ben Adler. Used with permission.

In this episode, Doron Amitai Libshtein, an international speaker, author, leadership mentor, and the chairman of The Life Academy, shares his passion for humane leadership following the loss of both his brother Ofir and his nephew on October 7 2023. We discuss the processing of these losses, grief, and how these ultimately reshaped the direction of Doron's life and a Foundation honouring and continuing his brother's work. Doron reveals one pillar of humane leadership - optimism - and also how connection to others is core for creating healthy communities. Many of these reflections are also in his book, Light and Goodness Will Prevail. Original music in this episode: “Kama At Yafa (כמה את יפה),” performed by CHUTNEY, from the album Ajar (2024). Courtesy of CHUTNEY/Ben Adler. Used with permission.

In this episode, I’m joined by Australian-Iranian patriot and activist Ali for his third appearance on the The Actual to dissect the rapidly evolving situation in Iran and the global implications of the ongoing war. Since our last conversation, there have been significant developments, including the death of Khamenei, military interventions, growing pressure on the Islamic regime, and the critical question of whether these actions will lead to sustainable change. Ali emphasises that the optimal outcome would involve a complete dismantling of the IRGC to create an opportunity for Iranians to move toward a free, democratic, and sovereign state determined by the will of its people. Original music in this episode: “Kama At Yafa (כמה את יפה),” performed by CHUTNEY, from the album Ajar (2024). Courtesy of CHUTNEY/Ben Adler. Used with permission.

In a world increasingly shaped by uncertainty, polarisation, and collective distress, what does it truly mean to hold onto hope? In this deeply reflective episode, psychotherapist and psychologist Dr. Julian Pascal Saadi explores hope not as naïve optimism, but as a psychological force. Drawing on his clinical experience in adult mental health, he unpacks the delicateness between hope and despair, examining when hope guides us, when it shields us, and how it can be consciously re-found in times of personal and collective upheaval. From intimate relationships to the wider global landscape, this conversation considers hope as an essential life force not as fixed destination, but a dynamic capacity that propels growth, resilience, and the possibility of something new. Original music in this episode: “Kama At Yafa (כמה את יפה),” performed by CHUTNEY, from the album Ajar (2024). Courtesy of CHUTNEY/Ben Adler. Used with permission.

In this episode of The Actual, author and editor Lee Kofman reflects on writing, identity, and Jewish life in the aftermath of October 7 2023. She examines the surge of disinformation, antisemitism, and the pressure placed on Jewish voices in public discourse. Lee describes co-editing Ruptured, an anthology documenting Jewish women’s lived experiences post October 7, and felt the urgency of recording history as it was still unfolding. She shares the emotional cost of writing without a sense of distance, whilst also addressing the damaging “good Jew/bad Jew” binary, and the loss of nuance around the term 'Zionism'. This episode is a call to amplify Jewish narratives and to recognise that confronting antisemitism is not solely a Jewish issue, but a societal responsibility requiring collective action. Original music in this episode: “Kama At Yafa (כמה את יפה),” performed by CHUTNEY, from the album Ajar (2024). Courtesy of CHUTNEY/Ben Adler. Used with permission.

In this follow-up episode of The Actual with Iranian patriot and activist Ali, he discusses the critical updates on the rapidly deteriorating situation in Iran and its expanding global implications. As disinformation intensifies and extremist rhetoric gains traction worldwide, this episode examines Iran’s prolonged and unprecedented internet blackout, the regime’s escalating violence against civilians, and the increasing risks faced by activists both inside Iran and across the diaspora. This episode serves as a stark update on a crisis still unfolding and a call to pay attention. Original music in this episode: “Kama At Yafa (כמה את יפה),” performed by CHUTNEY, from the album Ajar (2024). Courtesy of CHUTNEY/Ben Adler. Used with permission.

In this episode of The Actual, we speak with Chavi Block-Israel, an educator, writer, and founder of The Empowered Jew, about surviving the Bondi terror attack whilst shielding her infant son with her body. Chavi takes us inside the moments during and after the attack, how her mind narrowed under threat, how instinct took over, and how motherhood was central to her experience. We explored the psychological protections that emerge in the terror, the lasting impact of collective trauma, and why silence is no longer possible in the face of rising antisemitism and violence. Original music in this episode: “Kama At Yafa (כמה את יפה),” performed by CHUTNEY, from the album Ajar (2024). Courtesy of CHUTNEY/Ben Adler.

This fascinating episode features Lynda Ben-Menashe, President of the National Council of Jewish Women Australia and a long-time leader in the Jewish community. She speaks about the concerning tidal wave of misinformation and disinformation shaping people's perspective of the world today. She describes the way antagonistic positions towards Israel are typically one's own expression of a 'morality play', and also why emotional narratives often overpower history and reality. Drawing on decades of leading interfaith initiatives, women’s leadership programs, and anti-racism advocacy, Lynda outlines the patterns forming across Australia - rising antisemitism, manipulated narratives, and communities caught in the middle. She advocates for stronger media literacy, better education around disinformation, and the need to confront the contradictions shaping public discourse and legislation today. Original music in this episode: “Kama At Yafa (כמה את יפה),” performed by CHUTNEY, from the album Ajar (2024). Courtesy of CHUTNEY/Ben Adler. Used with permission.

Iranian activists Ali and Amin were invited onto The Actual to explain how a series of economic and political pressures in Iran escalated into a nationwide uprising in late December 2025. They break down the factors that have led to a revolution where the Iranians demand the removal of the Islamic regime. The conversation also provides historical context on Iran’s political system since 1979 and how past protest movements and failed reform efforts have shaped the current response. Original music in this episode Kama At Yafa (כמה את יפה) performed by CHUTNEY, from the album Ajar (2024). Courtesy of CHUTNEY/Ben Adler. Used with permission.

Shortly after the terror attacks at Bondi Beach, one of the most famous beaches in the world, the host of this podcast Lissy Abrahams, and two other courageous members of the Jewish community were interviewed by Dr. Phil. They share their personal experiences and reflections of the massacre on 14 December 2025, where a mass shooting broke out during celebrations of the first night of Hanukkah. What should have been a night of light and community turned into mayhem and terrifying chaos within seconds. 15 innocents were brutally murdered, and many are still fighting for their lives in the hospital. This feature addresses the reality of antisemitism, the importance of awareness and leadership, and why unity across communities is essential in confronting radical violence. Disclaimer: This episode features the full conversation originally aired on Dr. Phil. Special thanks to Dr. Phil and his team for permitting The Actual to publish the entirety of this episode.

In this episode, activist Tamar Paluch talks about Ruptured, the collection of essays she co-edited with author Lee Kofman that documents how Jewish women experienced and responded to events following the terror attacks on October 7 and beyond. Tamar explains how the book provided a way for women to write through grief, record their memories in real time, and take back ownership of their stories during a moment when Jewish voices were being pushed aside. This conversation speaks to why written records and documentation matters so deeply in Jewish life, what it means to live history as it’s unfolding, and how the act of writing helped bring light back into a very difficult period. Original music in this episode: “Kama At Yafa (כמה את יפה),” performed by CHUTNEY, from the album Ajar (2024). Courtesy of CHUTNEY/Ben Adler. Used with permission.

In this episode of The Actual, Michele Goldman, CEO of the New South Wales Jewish Board of Deputies opens up about the impact of disinformation, the rise of anti-Semitism, and what it means to lead a community during times of uncertainty. She shares her insights on advocacy, the importance of interfaith relationships, and the challenges faced by the Jewish community in the wake of recent events. The conversation also touches on the broader societal implications of hate speech and the pressing need for stronger legislative action to protect vulnerable communities. Original music in this episode: “Kama At Yafa (כמה את יפה),” performed by CHUTNEY, from the album Ajar (2024). Courtesy of CHUTNEY/Ben Adler. Used with permission.

Violinist, composer, arranger, and founder of CHUTNEY, Ben Adler joins The Actual to discuss the way music becomes an emotional communicator and how Jewish identity and community have shaped his work. He describes why carefully designed concerts can move people from despair to hope to jubilation, and how SHIR concerts are deeply thought through to create a truly transformational experience. Ben shares his journey from classical training to leading CHUTNEY, Australia’s leading Jewish ensemble, where their musical creations support the Jewish community to feel connected and to hold one's head up high in difficult times. Original music in this episode Kama At Yafa (כמה את יפה) performed by CHUTNEY, from the album Ajar (2024). Courtesy of CHUTNEY/Ben Adler. Used with permission.

Arno Michaelis once lived a life consumed by hate. Today, he devotes himself to preventing others from following this path, and recognises the urgent need to confront antisemitism and misinformation. In this deeply moving and fascinating episode of The Actual, Arno shares his journey from violent extremism to healing. His story is one of painful reckoning and hope. Arno now works with Parents 4 Peace, helping families and communities break cycles of hate before they begin. To support and know more about Parents 4 Peace, visit: www.parents4peace.org.

Returning as a guest on The Actual, Michael Scott CSC, founder of The 2023 Foundation and author of his recently released book A Light Still Burns: Israel and the Values Worth Defending reflects on the rise of disinformation and anti-Semitism in the wake of October 7 2023. Drawing from more than 30 years of military service and his time living in Israel, he shares how these experiences shaped his mission to defend truth, uphold Western values, and inspire others to stand against hate through education and action.

Colonel (Ret.) Michael Scott CSC, Founder and CEO of The 2023 Foundation, joins The Actual to speak about combating antisemitism, terrorism, and disinformation. Drawing on more than 30 years in the Australian Army and his 27 months serving in Israel with the United Nations Truce Supervision Organization (UNTSO), Michael reveals why he refuses to be a bystander, the ripple effect of his personal action, choices, and how ordinary people can become leaders in the fight against this ancient hatred. This is Part 1 of our two-part conversation with Michael Scott. To know more about the 2023 Foundation: https://www.2023foundation.org.au/

Mark Leach is the co-founder of Never Again Is Now and a longtime church leader. In this incredible episode of The Actual, he reveals how his earlier years of personal trauma, faith, and later leadership have directly shaped his current responses to the major challenges we face today. We discussed his courageous words and actions and why he keeps standing up to Jew hatred and how this impacts Australia as a whole. Mark also shares his views on the increase in global tribalism. This is a must-listen conversation that you won't want to miss! To know more about Never Again Is Now, visit: https://www.neveragainisnow.com.au/

What started as one woman’s way of coping with fear and grief, through sharp humour and biting honesty, has since become one of Australia’s fiercest watchdogs for online hate. In this episode, Zara Cooper or more known as @clammy_fraud, shares how her personal response to the attacks in Israel on October 7, 2023, grew into a community-powered digital defence movement. From satirical posts to serious legal submissions, Zara reveals the blurred lines between free speech and hate speech, and why what happens online doesn’t stay online. If you’ve ever felt silenced, targeted, or unsafe in today’s digital world, her story might just make you feel less alone and more empowered.

Rabbi Jacqueline Ninio OAM joins Relationships Under the Microscope to discuss her extraordinary journey from lawyer to rabbi. She shares her experiences as a female leader in the Jewish community, and her reflections on and post the terror attacks on Israel of October 7, 2023. Rabbi Jacki is a humanitarian at heart, and in this episode imparts her insights on faith, community, and leadership during times of crisis.

More than 600 days since Hamas attacked Israel on October 7, 2023, taking hostages. In this episode I’m joined by Shoshana Eisner, the powerhouse behind Operation Golda - a grassroots mission launched from her kitchen just days after October 7. What began with a WhatsApp callout for empty suitcases turned into a full-scale relief effort that has since delivered over 26,000 kilos of trauma supplies to Israel and mobilised hundreds of volunteers across Australia. Shoshana opens up about what it means to channel fear into action, and how her Jewish identity became the driving force behind the work. We discuss Australian values and how Australians revealed at the recent federal election that they hate hate and value multiculturalism and care for others in our country.

Trigger Warning: This episode discusses the Middle East conflict, including war, violence, and humanitarian issues, which may be distressing to some listeners. In this episode, my guests, Tzachi and Alexis, speak from the heart of a humanitarian crisis that began on October 7, 2023, which continues to reverberate across borders in the Middle East. Reading the names of the remaining hostages and tireless community work, they’ve helped keep the stories of the missing alive. Each hostage held in captivity in Gaza is a person, with a unique world, a family, friends and a future. We discuss how the wait for their return is unbearable, and the belief that until all hostages are home, there can be no true peace, not for Israelis, not for Palestinians, nor for any of us.

Trigger Warning: This episode discusses the Middle East conflict, including war, violence, and humanitarian issues, which may be distressing to some listeners. In this episode, my guest, Lynda Ben-Menashe, shares her journey of building bridges across communities, faiths, and histories. As President of the National Council of Jewish Women Australia, and with decades of work as an educator, writer, and public diplomat, Lynda brings a deep belief in the power of connection and dialogue. Her mission is rooted in innovation — finding new ways to build social capital, strengthen empathy, and foster understanding between the Jewish community and the wider world. She opens up about why memory matters, how relationships shape justice, and what it truly means to repair the world through action, compassion, and courage.

Australia stands at a turning point in this coming federal election, and in this episode, Sophie Calland of Better Australia joins us to talk about what’s at stake. An engineer by profession and a community advocate by choice, Sophie stepped forward out of concern for the growing influence of political extremism and elite activism. Through Better Australia, she champions accountable leadership, strong governments, and a future built on transparency, unity, and action not division. To know more about Better Australia visit www.betteraustralia.org.