In this episode of Boots on the Ground, Ari sits down with Rabbi Dr. Natan Slifkin for a wide-ranging conversation on Judaism, science, Zionism, and the ideological battles shaping Israel today.

They explore how the animals and plants of Tanakh reveal the Jewish people’s deep indigenous connection to the Land of Israel, unpack the argument at the heart of Slifkin’s book Lions of Zion, and examine how nature itself challenges anti-Israel narratives.

The conversation then turns to Rationalist Judaism, the clash between rationalism and mysticism, and one of the most pressing questions facing Israeli society: the growing divide over army service, civic duty, and national responsibility.

A fascinating and challenging conversation about faith, truth, and the future of Israel.

To follow R. Slifkin's work, you can go to:
The blog - https://www.rationalistjudaism.com/
The Museum - https://www.biblicalnaturalhistory.org/

In this episode, Shaun and Ari break down the latest developments in Israel's war with Iran, the growing political battle over the Haredi draft, and the increasing speculation about early elections.

They discuss the military, political, and social implications of these issues, what they mean for Israel's future, and how the country's leadership is fumblin one of the most challenging periods in recent memory.

A quick programming note: both Shaun and Ari are currently serving in reserve duty, which means new episodes may be released a bit more sporadically in the coming weeks. We appreciate your patience and support as we balance service with bringing you these conversations.

We'd like to extend our thanks to our partners at the Jerusalem Media Group and to our sponsors at BeThereIsrael.com for their continued support in helping make this podcast possible.

In Part II of this special Yom HaZikaron episode of Boots on the Ground, we sit down with Mark Levin, the father of lone soldier Michael Levin, who fell in the Second Lebanon War.

This is not just a story of loss. It is a story of conviction, sacrifice, and what it means to raise a child who chooses a life of purpose and responsibility to the Jewish people.

Mark reflects on the values that shaped Michael, the moment he chose to leave everything behind and join the IDF, and the impossible decision of a father who ultimately chose to support his son’s path, even when it meant facing his greatest fear.

He shares the final goodbye at the airport, the devastating moment of loss, and the overwhelming experience of arriving in Israel to witness a nation come together, thousands strong, to honor a soldier they had never met.

Two decades later, we explore how Michael’s legacy continues to live on through the Lone Soldier movement, impacting thousands who follow in his path.

This conversation captures the essence of Yom HaZikaron: the unbearable weight of sacrifice alongside the unbreakable spirit of a people. As Israel transitions from remembrance to independence, Mark offers a powerful perspective on resilience, national strength, and why, despite everything, he remains deeply optimistic about the future of Israel.

This episode is about more than memory. It is about legacy, responsibility, and the enduring strength of Am Yisrael.

Learn more about Michael Levin’s story and legacy, and watch the documentary here:
https://michaellevinlonesoldier.org/documentary-film/