Third Opinion Podcast
"What do you get when you put two Jews in a room? Three Opinions. It’s an old joke with a real kernel of truth. When we talk about current events and the pressing issues facing the Jewish Community and the state of Israel, we might only agree to keep seeking the truth until we find the best answers. With Anti-Semitism on the rise worldwide, this conversation must never end."
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Facts, Fiction and Fear: Israel, Antisemitism and the Battle for Truth
12/30/2025
Facts, Fiction and Fear: Israel, Antisemitism and the Battle for Truth
A powerful clip from Beginning Within’s Rabbi Aryeh Weinstein examines a revealing exchange between Penn State University’s Sam Richards and his students during a lecture asserting that “Palestine did not exist 200 years ago,” a claim that stunned students who view it as their ancestral homeland. Rabbi Weinstein unpacks why historical literacy matters and how emotional narratives often replace facts in today’s discourse. The program also features Australian television host Julia Hartley-Brewer in conversation with author and commentator Melanie Phillips, examining why the Gaza ceasefire continues to falter as Hamas refuses to disarm and what that means for Israel’s security and regional stability. Mike then turns to New York City, focusing on growing security concerns for Jewish residents and institutions as mayor-elect Mandami prepares to take office. Throughout the episode, Mike underscores the urgent need for a proactive, positive campaign in support of Israel. He addresses and debunks accusations of genocide and apartheid, discusses the sharp rise in antisemitism in Australia following the Bondi Beach attack on Jews celebrating Chanukah, and raises alarms about the growing belief that the United States is a “Christian nation” and the troubling implications such thinking may hold for American Jews. In a lighter, seasonally fitting moment, he also reviews 11 classic Christmas songs written by Jewish composers. Thank you for listening, sharing and subscribing to The Third Opinion Podcast!
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A Light Against the Darkness: Chanukah, Terror Plots and Jewish Resilience
12/29/2025
A Light Against the Darkness: Chanukah, Terror Plots and Jewish Resilience
Recorded on December 22: Mike and Laureen reflect on the eight days of Chanukah and what it means for the Jewish community to be a light in a darkening world. From 18,000 people gathering at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center to massive Chanukah solidarity events in Amsterdam and controversy in London as the city’s mayor attempted to halt a vigil for the Bondi victims — the week underscored both resilience and resistance. Amid rising threats, the FBI thwarted a New Year’s Eve terror plot involving multiple bombings in the Los Angeles area, while Australian authorities intercepted seven men en route to Bondi Beach, highlighting the global scope of ongoing security concerns. This week’s guest, Benham Ben Taleblu of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, warns that Iran and its threat to Israel are not getting the attention they deserve because attention is being diverted to Venezuela. The hosts also examine troubling moments of antisemitism at the Turning Point USA conference, where Ben Shapiro pushed back against the rhetoric, and unpack Tucker Carlson being named Antisemite of the Year by Stop Antisemitism — along with other notable figures and incidents making headlines. Thank you for listening, sharing and subscribing to The Third Opinion Podcast.
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When Celebration Turns to Terror: The Bondi Beach Attack
12/17/2025
When Celebration Turns to Terror: The Bondi Beach Attack
Recorded December 15, 2025: Mike and Laureen dedicate this episode to the violent antisemitic attack targeting Australia’s Jewish community during a Chanukah gathering at Bondi Beach. The show includes excerpts from Australian television coverage and firsthand witness accounts as events unfolded. They discuss statements from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who cited earlier warnings to Australia's Prime Minister Anthony Albanese about rising antisemitism, as well as updates from Sydney’s police chief, who labeled the incident terrorism and vowed accountability amid an ongoing investigation. The hosts also examine troubling security failures, noting the delayed police response despite the presence of community security. The episode further addresses a recently foiled FBI investigation involving a pro-Palestinian group planning coordinated attacks in Southern California. Mike and Laureen close with a call for vigilance and resilience, emphasizing the enduring responsibility to bring light in the face of hatred. Thank you for listening, sharing and subscribing to the Third Opinion Podcast!
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Eurovision Fallout, NYC BDS Ban and the Clooney Controversy
12/11/2025
Eurovision Fallout, NYC BDS Ban and the Clooney Controversy
This week, Mike and Laureen remember beloved Rabbi Gary Klein (z”l) and examine Hamas’ refusal to honor a disarmament agreement. They unpack George Clooney’s offhand comments about Amal Clooney’s involvement in drafting the Muslim Brotherhood’s constitution, an organization recently designated as a terrorist group in Florida and Texas. They cover major cultural flashpoints, including mainstream magazines boost of anti-Jewish messaging and Eurovision’s rejection of an Israeli boycott that triggered the withdrawal of Spain, the Netherlands, Slovenia and Ireland. The hosts spotlight NYC Mayor Eric Adams’ executive order barring BDS from city investments and his directive to strengthen protection for houses of worship. Barack Swatt previews CNBC’s Andrew Ross Sorkin’s interview with Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, amid Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani’s threat to seek his arrest under the ICC declaration if he visits New York. And British journalist Melanie Phillips explains why she believes the West has embraced the “Palestinian lie,” eroding its moral clarity and weakening its defense of democratic values. The hosts wrap up with family-friendly animated films and binge-worthy streaming picks for Chanukah. Thank you for listening, sharing and subscribing to the Third Opinion Podcast!
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Rebuilding Gaza, Revisiting History and the Rise of AI Nonsense
12/03/2025
Rebuilding Gaza, Revisiting History and the Rise of AI Nonsense
Week of 12/1/25: This week on the show features an in-depth conversation with “The Economist’s” Middle East reporter Gregg Carlstrom and correspondent Rosie Blau, who explain why Gaza is unlikely to be rebuilt any time soon and explore various plans for overcoming barriers. The hosts discuss JTV’s Ollie Ansfeld report on reasons why some Jews supported Hitler during the 1930s in hopes of their own survival. Mike and Laureen look at the week’s major headlines including an AI-generated top 10 “Best Books of 2025,” that included three titles that don’t exist; Hamas terrorists trapped in Gaza’s tunnels who refused to lay down their arms when offered safe passage; lifetime payments to terrorists’ families who die while murdering Jews; blood libel claims against Israel shifting from starvation in Gaza to accusations of causing obesity despite climbing birth rates; the Pope’s historic visit to Lebanon and the Hezbollah welcome that followed; and Texas’ designation of CAIR as a terrorist organization. Thank you for listening, sharing and subscribing to the Third Opinon Podcast!
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Palestinian Persistence, Terror Financing and the Ideological Fight on American Soil
11/26/2025
Palestinian Persistence, Terror Financing and the Ideological Fight on American Soil
Week of 11/24/25: Mike and Laureen break down the recent high-profile Oval Office meeting between NYC Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani and President Trump, focusing not just on what was discussed, but what was left unsaid. The episode features a compelling clip from political commentator Ken LaCorte, who explains why Palestinians continue their struggle despite overwhelming losses. The hosts discuss a conversation between CBS’ Major Garrett and the Free Press’ Tanner Nau and analyze Nick Fuentes’ efforts to influence the Republican Party by mobilizing young right-wing voters through a new nonprofit organization with openly antisemitic and racist aims. The week’s headlines included the PLO’s “pay to slay” incentivized terrorism program; a report from the Institute for Standing Against Global Antisemitism on Qatar’s $20B influence campaign in U.S. universities; and President Trump’s designation of certain Muslim Brotherhood chapters as global terrorist organizations. In closing, Mike and Laureen condemn a disturbing incident at the University of South Florida, where Muslim students praying on a parking garage rooftop were harassed, leading to three arrests. Thank you for listening, sharing and subscribing to the Third Opinion Podcast!
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From Capitol Hill to New York to Gaza: Political Shift, Viral Disinformation and the Rise of Hate
11/17/2025
From Capitol Hill to New York to Gaza: Political Shift, Viral Disinformation and the Rise of Hate
This week, Mike and Laureen dive deep into the recent election of Zohran Mamdani and the immediate, alarming warnings that followed, suggesting this political shift could place New York's Jewish community in danger and on high alert. A special interview with Maor Elbaz-Starinsky, the former Consul General of Israel to Florida, Puerto Rico, Kansas, and Missouri, offers a powerful and sobering perspective on the alarming rise of antisemitism across the US and globally, underscoring the real-world violence fueled by hate. A look at the week’s headlines reveals “lies of genocide” being perpetuated through resolutions in Congress; unsettling news of Hamas terrorists reportedly in tunnels on the Israeli side of the “yellow line;” a viral AI-generated image of Miss Israel during the Miss Universe competition causing controversy; and prominent Iranian leaders publicly called for mass protests and urged large military branches to oppose the government and the Supreme Leader. Thank you for listening, sharing and subscribing to the Third Opinion Podcast!
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From NYC to Gaza: The Rising Wave of Antisemitism and Political Polarization
11/11/2025
From NYC to Gaza: The Rising Wave of Antisemitism and Political Polarization
This week, the hosts tackle the fallout from Zohran Mamdani’s election in NYC and the controversy over CAIR’s support. Jewish leaders including Rabbi Ammiel Hirsch and Amb. Michael Oren and voices including Sen. Ted Cruz and commentator Ben Shapiro warn of growing threats, as the ADL and AJC closely monitor Mamdani’s activities. In the Middle East, a fragile Gaza ceasefire leaves Hamas fighters trapped in Rafah tunnels, with Rabbi Pesach Wolicki questioning the ceasefire’s durability and Netanyahu rejecting a state inquiry regarding October 7. Across the Atlantic, the episode examines antisemitism in the UK — an NHS physician continues to treat patients despite repeated antisemitic outbursts, and Aston Villa’s ban on Israeli fans during a match against Maccabi sparks outrage as protesters chant. Back in the U.S., authorities successfully thwarted jihad-inspired terror plots targeting Jewish communities in Michigan and New Jersey, underscoring the growing urgency of vigilance and communal security. Thank you for listening, subscribing and sharing the Third Opinion Podcast.
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From New York to Gaza: Politics, Propaganda and the Price of Truth
11/04/2025
From New York to Gaza: Politics, Propaganda and the Price of Truth
This week, the hosts dive into the New York mayoral race and what’s driving voters in the city. Laureen speaks with Jerusalem Post editor Yaakov Katz, who doesn't pull any punches about what Netanyahu's legacy will be because of October 7. They also discuss British podcaster Tommy Robinson’s visit to an Arab business district in Israel and asks how they feel about their county. Mike and Laureen unpack headlines from the previous week, including reports of a U.S. high school group’s reenactment of the October 7 attacks, CENTCOM footage of Hamas stealing aid in Gaza and Ben & Jerry’s new “Peace for Palestine” flavor. Thank you for listening, sharing and subscribing to the Third Opinion Podcast!
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Fragile Peace, Fraught Politics and Finding Belonging
10/27/2025
Fragile Peace, Fraught Politics and Finding Belonging
Recorded 10/27/2025: This episode unpacks a tense moment in world and local affairs. We begin with the fragile ceasefire between Israel and Gaza and what it means for regional stability. Then, the hosts turn to New York City, where early voting in the mayoral race is underway and the frontrunner's record has sparked considerable concerns about anti-Zionism and antisemitism. Finally, we sit down with Miryam Kabakov, Executive Director of Eshel, to discuss how her organization supports LGBTQ Orthodox Jews navigating questions of faith and identity and community.
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Colonel John Spencer: What I Saw in Gaza
10/23/2025
Colonel John Spencer: What I Saw in Gaza
Show recorded on October 20, 2025. Retired U.S. Army Colonel John Spencer, Chair of Urban Warfare at West Point’s Modern War Institute, joins the show after returning from Gaza City. He discusses Hamas’s recruitment tactics, inflated casualty reports and the vast tunnel networks hidden beneath hospitals and schools. Bill Maher calls for educating young Americans on the Middle East, reaffirming Israel as the Jewish homeland. Meanwhile, Mike and Laureen share the emotional stories of returning Israeli hostages and expose Hamas’s ceasefire violations and brutal use of human leverage. Thank you for listening, sharing, and subscribing to the Third Opinion Podcast!
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Hostages Freed, Murderers Released: The High Cost of Peace
10/14/2025
Hostages Freed, Murderers Released: The High Cost of Peace
This week, Mike and Laureen dive into the complex aftermath of the hostage release deal between Israel and Hamas — celebrating lives saved while questioning the cost of freeing convicted murderers. They examine the troubling rise of anti-Israel sentiment and the disturbing glorification of and outpouring of support for Hamas in America, Canada, England and elsewhere. With insights from Rabbi Pincus Taylor of the American Faith Coalition and journalist Douglas Murray, the hosts explore how the war for truth is being lost in the West. They also highlight the fiery debate about who is responsible for the war between Palestinian activist Abby Martin and Israeli journalist Emily Schrader on Piers Morgan Uncensored. Plus, Mike and Laureen take a sharp look at headlines from Greta Thunberg’s failed flotilla to Qatar’s plans for a military training facility in the U.S. and Indonesia’s sports ban on Israelis. Thank you for listening, sharing, and subscribing to the Third Opinion Podcast! Show recorded: 10/12/25
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The Deal for Gaza: What’s Really at Stake
10/07/2025
The Deal for Gaza: What’s Really at Stake
This week, hosts Mike and Laureen dive into the proposed deal to free the remaining hostages held by Hamas and explore the historic reasons why a Palestinian state has never emerged. They share powerful clips, including Australian commentator Julie Hartley-Brewer calling out British Prime Minister Keir Starmer for his stance on recognizing Palestine following the Manchester synagogue attack, and NBC’s Richard Engel reporting from the Middle East on the evolving Hamas–Israel negotiations over hostage releases and Gaza’s temporary governance. Plus, hear NYU Professor Scott Galloway’s sharp take on the double standard in how the world responds to U.S. retaliation versus Israel’s right to defend itself. Thank you for listening, sharing, and subscribing to the Third Opinion Podcast!
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Walkouts, Warships and What Comes Next in Gaza
09/30/2025
Walkouts, Warships and What Comes Next in Gaza
Mike and Laureen break down the week’s most pressing developments in the Middle East — where narratives and realities collide on the world stage. The hosts tackle and debunk false genocide accusations leveled against Israel, while the dramatic walkout of world leaders during Prime Minister Netanyahu’s UN address underscores the deep divisions at the international level. They track the controversial Gaza flotilla — 50 vessels carrying some 500 activists, including Greta Thunberg — now moving under Italian and Spanish naval protection. The discussion then turns to reports of a Trump-Netanyahu meeting outlining a 21-point plan to end the Gaza war, featuring proposals for Gaza’s future governance, the release of hostages and a phased IDF withdrawal. Former British Prime Minister Tony Blair even emerges as a potential leader of a new Gaza International Transit Authority. Media bias also comes into sharp focus as CNN’s Jake Tapper interviews Ambassador Yechiel Leiter, who challenges the framing of Israel’s military restraint. And in a powerful conversation with Ben Mulroney, Brooke Goldstein of The Lawfare Project dismantles claims of a Gaza food shortage, exposing how UN aid often empowers Hamas instead of reaching civilians. As we mark Yom Kippur, we wish our listeners a meaningful fast and G’mar Chatima Tovah — may you be inscribed in the Book of Life for good. Thank you for listening, sharing and subscribing to The Third Opinion Podcast!
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Fighting Lies with Facts: The War Against Jewish Truth
09/25/2025
Fighting Lies with Facts: The War Against Jewish Truth
In this powerful episode, Mike and Laureen break down a heated debate where Ben Shapiro confronts Mohammad Hijab and Piers Morgan on the Israel-Palestine conflict. Citing the reality of hostages in Gaza, Hamas’ stranglehold on the region and repeated Palestinian rejections of statehood, Shapiro defends Israel’s right to exist and dismantles the narrative blaming Israel for the suffering in Gaza. The hosts emphasize the urgent need to speak truthfully about what's happening on the ground — because no one else will do it for the Jewish community. They share an impassioned clip of Rabbi Shmuley Boteach addressing a Muslim audience at Oxford Union, offering a bold and respectful defense of Israel. Mike and Laureen also raise concerns about rising antisemitism and threats to Jewish students on college campuses and they urge listeners to amplify the truth with facts — and not stay silent. They close the episode with wishes for a happy and sweet Jewish New Year. Thank you for listening, sharing and subscribing to the Third Opinion Podcast!
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Debating Heroes, Antisemitism and Accountability
09/18/2025
Debating Heroes, Antisemitism and Accountability
Mike and Laureen dig into the controversy around Charlie Kirk: was he standing up for the Jewish community or crossing a dangerous line? Former Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett appears on Sky TV, an Australian network, and clarifies the truth about the terrorist organization that is Hamas. And the hosts unravel a troubling story about a child’s death blamed on the IDF — a blood libel claim that turned out to be false.
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False Scholars, Real Evidence: The Dynah Project and the War on Truth
09/11/2025
False Scholars, Real Evidence: The Dynah Project and the War on Truth
YouTuber Oren Cahanovitc of Traveling Israel highlights the surge of new sweet shops and restaurants opening in Gaza — challenging claims that Israel is causing a famine in the region. Rabbi Pesach Wolicki unpacks the newly released Dynah Project report, which documents the rape, torture and humiliation of Israeli hostages, supported by eyewitness testimony and Hamas’s own video evidence. Hosts Mike and Laureen analyze how major media outlets cite the International Association of Genocide Scholars, questioning whether these references stem from malice or reckless reporting. They also spotlight the recent People’s Conference for Palestine in Detroit, debating free speech rights when protest groups invoke terrorist rhetoric and calls for violence. Thank you for listening, sharing and subscribing to The Third Opinion Podcast!
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From Blood Libel to Breaking News: The Fight Against Antisemitic Narratives
09/03/2025
From Blood Libel to Breaking News: The Fight Against Antisemitic Narratives
This week, Mike and Laureen confront the dangerous spread of misinformation about famine in Gaza, including interviews with Sky News contributors Danica DiGorgio and Will Kingston, who highlight the urgent need to fact-check false United Nations claims made through the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC). The hosts reveal how such narratives echo age-old blood libels, fueling modern antisemitism. Author and documentarian Simcha Jacobovici, known as the "Naked Archeologist," offers a rapid but powerful overview of Gaza’s 4,000-year Jewish presence and its evolution into today’s flashpoint for Islamist nationalism. Mike and Laureen also take a look at this week’s headlines from around the world including: a Congressional probe on antisemitism in the National Education Association; Beverly Hills schools vote to display Israeli flags during Israel Independence Day in a stand against antisemitism; the DNC rejects a proposal cutting aid to Israel; Germany’s Chancellor standing firm with Israel during an investigation, while Colombia’s socialist government cuts ties and pushes anti-Israel and pro-Gaza agenda; and in the UK, the former president of Columbia University is appointed chief economic advisor to the Prime Minister. Thank you for listening, sharing and subscribing to The Third Opinion Podcast!
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From Harvard Halls to Gaza Headlines: Truth, Lies and Media Battles
08/27/2025
From Harvard Halls to Gaza Headlines: Truth, Lies and Media Battles
This week’s show features Shabbos Kestenbaum, a former Harvard Divinity student sued the university over its failure to address rampant antisemitism on campus. Justin Hilton of The Israel Guys challenges the international narrative about famine in Gaza, pointing to the massive amounts of aid Israel has facilitated despite global accusations. Hosts Mike and Laureen unpack the week’s headlines: an Israeli airstrike on a Gaza hospital that killed five journalists, ongoing protests inside Israel and the debate over whether access for Western reporters in Gaza would change the headlines. They also highlight Israel’s new foreign ministry initiative to host 400 international delegations — bringing more than 5,000 global representatives into the country by year’s end. Thank you for listening, sharing and subscribing to The Third Opinion Podcast!
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What the Media Gets Wrong in its Bias Against Israel
08/21/2025
What the Media Gets Wrong in its Bias Against Israel
This week, Mike and Laureen break down the latest headlines shaping the conversation around Israel and the Middle East. They examine the Democratic Socialists of America’s 2025 national convention and the passing of a resolution on the Palestinian “right of return.” The hosts explore whether Western journalists should be allowed into Gaza to report freely and uncover the real story behind Anas Al-Sharif — presented by some as an Al Jazeera journalist but revealed to be a Hamas commander. British journalist Melanie Phillips weighs in on the false narrative that Palestinians are the indigenous people of Israel, while Mike and Laureen analyze recent moves by Australia, the UK, France, Malta, Canada, Portugal, Germany and Bahrain to formally recognize “Palestine.” Finally, they review author and journalist Matti Friedman’s sharp critique of the Associated Press and its disproportionate coverage of Israel, which often casts Israel as the aggressor while downplaying the broader regional hostility it faces. Thank you for listening, sharing, and subscribing to the Third Opinion Podcast!
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Aid, Accusations and Israel’s Gaza Strategy
08/15/2025
Aid, Accusations and Israel’s Gaza Strategy
This week, Mike and Laureen examine global reactions to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s plan to take over Gaza City, including U.S Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s forceful rebuttal of antisemitic “blood libel” claims circulating in Europe. U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee discusses the humanitarian aid flowing into Gaza through Israel, condemns the UK, Ireland and Netherlands for not sending supplies or taking in refugees, and reaffirms America’s support for Israel. We feature Netanyahu’s remarks on Hamas blocking two million tons of aid for Palestinian civilians and his three-point plan for safe delivery. Mike and Laureen debate about Israel’s restriction of media access to Gaza. Interviews include Palestinian-American humanitarian activist Ahmed Fouad Alkatib, who is highly critical of Hamas, on the dangers of reoccupation without a clear endgame, and TBN Israel’s Yair Pinto reporting from the aid corridor where food and supplies await distribution. Thank you for listening, sharing and subscribing to the Third Opinion Podcast!
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Fact-Checking Gaza: Propaganda, Politics and Public Opinion
08/05/2025
Fact-Checking Gaza: Propaganda, Politics and Public Opinion
This week, Mike is flying solo and tackling a packed slate of topics. He addresses the controversial claim that Israel is starving Gazans — debunking viral misinformation, including a widely shared photo of a child that turns out to be false. As France moves toward recognizing a Palestinian state, Mike scrutinizes the spread of propaganda and acknowledges the real suffering while challenging the narrative that it’s driven by Israeli policy. Mike reflects on Rabbi Ed Rosenthal’s perspective on why does this humanitarian crisis deserve the world’s attention and not others – where is the outrage? The show features Mark Sachs, ELNET’s southeast regional director and Jacki Alexander, HonestReporting’s CEO, examining the role of journalists and influencers in navigating today’s chaotic media environment. And finally, Mike shares Bret Stephens' thought-provoking New York Times column, which questions the genocide accusations against Israel by pointing out inconsistencies in that narrative. Thank you for listening, sharing and subscribing to the Third Opinion Podcast!
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Aid, Access & Accusations
07/28/2025
Aid, Access & Accusations
Allegations that Israel is causing a famine in Gaza have spread rapidly - but the facts tell a very different story. In this episode, Mike and Laureen confront the latest blood libel: claims that IDF soldiers are shooting Palestinians trying to get food. Featuring Oliver "Ollie" Anisfeld, founder and executive producer of J-TV, on combating the demonization of Israel in Western media and the urgent need to spread light and truth; and Rabbi Pesach Wolicki, executive director of Israel 365, lays out the evidence that there no starvation crisis in Gaza - and explains why this dangerous narrative is being pushed. Plus, a moment to honor the late Ozzy Osbourne, an outspoken supporter of Israel and vocal opponent of antisemitism. Thank you for listening, sharing and subscribing to the Third Opinion Podcast!
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The Commandments, the Conflict and the Conversation
07/23/2025
The Commandments, the Conflict and the Conversation
This week’s episode features an interview with author Mark D. Friedman about his latest book, "Come On, Let's Reason," detailing why many younger Jews feel disconnected from traditional Judaism — and why embracing Jewish identity doesn’t have to mean following all 613 commandments. Friedman offers a thoughtful perspective on how Judaism can evolve without losing its core. We also highlight a striking moment from a recent J-TV interview, where founder Oliver "Ollie" Anisfeld tells a group of Palestinian students — much to their surprise — that they have no historical claim to the land of Israel, sparking a candid conversation about truth, narrative and identity. Finally, Mike and Laureen take a closer look at the latest headlines out of Israel, as growing frustration over the ongoing war raises tough questions about leadership, strategy and the path forward. Thank you for listening, sharing, and subscribing to the Third Opinion Podcast!
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Stalled Ceasefires & Shifting Candidacies: From Gaza to Gracie Mansion
07/15/2025
Stalled Ceasefires & Shifting Candidacies: From Gaza to Gracie Mansion
The Israel-Hamas ceasefire remains in limbo, raising urgent questions: What does each side truly want from a ceasefire — and who gets to define its success? As families continue to plead for the return of all hostages, both living and deceased, international pressure mounts while domestic divisions intensify. We hear from Shosh Bedrosian of Israel TV (ILTV) and Eric Mandel of the Middle East Political Information Network to unpack the emotional, political and strategic stakes on the ground. Meanwhile, in New York, the mayoral race takes an unexpected turn as Eric Adams and Andrew Cuomo launch independent campaigns, threatening to split Democrats' vote. At the same time, Zohran Mamdani, an anti-Israel candidate, is buoyed by growing support. What does this reveal about the direction — and divisions — of New York’s Democratic base? Douglas Murray, Senior Fellow at the Manhattan Institute, provides insights on the candidates and the future of New York's Democratic Party.
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Choices & Ceasefires: NYC Mayoral Race and Peace Negotiations
07/08/2025
Choices & Ceasefires: NYC Mayoral Race and Peace Negotiations
As proposed peace talks between Israel and Hamas shift by the hour, Mike and Laureen break down the latest developments and where negotiations currently stand. They also examine how Jewish voters are weighing their choices in the New York mayoral race—especially with a prominent anti-Israel candidate in the mix. Plus, the hosts discuss behind-the-scenes diplomacy between Israeli and Saudi delegations during a recent visit to the U.S. This episode features expert insights from Alon Burstein, Israel Institute Fellow at Tufts University, and sharp analysis from Fleur Hassan-Nahoum, Jerusalem City Council member and contributor to the Jewish News Service. Thank you for listening, sharing and subscribing to the Third Opinion Podcast!
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Escalation & Accusation: U.S. Strikes Iran, NYC Nominee Sparks Outrage
07/03/2025
Escalation & Accusation: U.S. Strikes Iran, NYC Nominee Sparks Outrage
Mike and Laureen analyze the political rise of Zohran Mamdani, winner of New York City’s Democratic mayoral primary, and examine the implications of his controversial views. Then, they turn to the U.S. military strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities and share expert insights on damage assessments by Col. Richard Kemp, a former British commander in Afghanistan, on how Gazans view Hamas; Jim Sciutto, CNN’s Chief National Security Analyst, on bomb damage assessments and nuclear infrastructure; and remarks from Scott Roecker, Vice President at the Nuclear Threat Initiative and Gen. James “Spider” Marks (Ret.), former commanding general, U.S. Army Intelligence Center. Thank you for listening, sharing and subscribing to the Third Opinion Podcast!
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Operation Midnight Hammer: A Campaign of Covert Strikes and Strategic Deception
06/23/2025
Operation Midnight Hammer: A Campaign of Covert Strikes and Strategic Deception
Mike and Laureen delve into the United States' massive and clandestine military strikes in Iran. They explore the implications and strategic motivations behind these tactical maneuvers with key experts: Benham Ben Talibu, Senior Iran Analyst with Foundation for Defense of Democracies; General Dan Caine, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff; Arizona Senator Mark Kelly; and James Acton, co-director of the Nuclear Policy Program at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace. Thank you for listening, sharing and subscribing to the Third Opinion Podcast!
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A Flashpoint in the Middle East: Inside the Israel-Iran War
06/16/2025
A Flashpoint in the Middle East: Inside the Israel-Iran War
Mike and Laureen focus exclusively on the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran. They explore the geopolitical stakes and global reactions with expert insights from Mark Dubowitz, CEO of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, and Natasha Lindstaedt, Professor of Government at the University of Essex. Thank you for listening, sharing and subscribing to the Third Opinion Podcast!
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The Multifaceted Role of Israel's Top Diplomat in Florida
06/10/2025
The Multifaceted Role of Israel's Top Diplomat in Florida
In this episode, Maor Elbaz-Starinsky, the Consul General of Israel in Miami, reflects on his four years serving as a diplomat in Florida. And as the number of deadly antisemitic incidents rise, Mike and Laureen debate the First Amendment rights and the threats of antisemitic activities across the country. Thank you for listening, sharing and subscribing to The Third Opinion Podcast.
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