In this heartfelt episode of Boots on the Ground, Ari and Shaun reflect on their ongoing reserve duty, moving between borders and battlefronts. They speak openly about the physical and emotional toll, the moments of fear and pride, and the deep sense of responsibility that keeps them going again and again. From personal struggles to national purpose, they explore what it truly means to wear the uniform,not just on the outside, but deep within. This is a conversation about identity, resilience, and the unshakable bond between soldiers, people, and our homeland.

Ari sits down with Marc Rosenberg, Vice President of Diaspora Partnerships at Nefesh B’Nefesh, for a powerful conversation about Aliyah during one of the most challenging and rapidly changing periods in Israel’s history.

They explore the motivations behind moving to Israel in a time of war; balancing Zionist ideals, personal safety, family decisions, and practical realities.

From the dreams that inspire Aliyah to powerful personal stories and the tough questions that follow, this episode explores ideology, identity, and resilience.

Whether you're considering Aliyah or simply trying to understand why so many are still choosing Israel, this discussion offers clarity, honesty, and hope.

Shaun and Ari dive into one of the most contentious debates in Israeli society: the ultra-Orthodox draft. But this isn’t just about military service—it's about the deeper fractures shaping the country. What role should the Haredi community play in a modern Jewish democracy? Can real integration be achieved, or are we stuck in a cycle of mutual resentment and political blackmail?

More than that, we explore how this issue reveals a broader crisis: Israel’s leadership vacuum.
For decades, decisions have been made for political survival—not national vision. What does real leadership look like in today’s Israel? Is there a way out of this endless loop of short-term deals and societal division?