Breaking the Narrative

On this episode, Jesse sits down with Natasha Pein, co-founder and Senior Executive Leader of the Stop Antizionism Initiative (stopaz.org) and author of Unmasking Antizionist Tactics: A New Face of Old Hate. Through her work, Natasha examines antizionism as a contemporary manifestation of antisemitism through rigorous research, strategic analysis, and actionable education.Jesse and Natasha break down what antizionism is, where it came from, and why it has become increasingly socially acceptable today. They also discuss how it impacts student life on campus and what an effective response to it actually requires from institutions.

On this episode, Jesse sits down with a small group of young Israelis hosted by StandWithUs Canada during a week of campus visits, student dialogues, and community events. The group participated in our WordSwap program, which brings Israeli voices to Canadian campuses, countering the reductive and often distorted portrayals of Israelis promoted by antizionist activists on campus. Coming from Druze, Ethiopian, and Argentine backgrounds, they showcase the rich cultural tapestry of Israel and the deep pride they feel for their country.The group shares their personal experiences from October 7, describing where they were and how that day affected them. They also reflect on what it means to live in Israel today, a nation that endures immense challenges yet sustains a resilient spirit that carries over generations.

On this episode, we welcome back former Member of Parliament Kevin Vuong, who used his platform in government to unapologetically champion a pro-Israel voice, even in the face of threats and continued antagonism.Kevin joins Jesse for a candid conversation about the alarming rise of antisemitism in Canada, the disruptive anti-Israel protests that unfolded in our streets, and the growing concern that hate speech targeting Jewish and pro-Israel communities has been left to grow unchecked.They also examine Iran’s destabilizing role in global conflict and assess how Canadian political leaders are responding - or failing to respond - to the challenges facing our country at home.

On this episode of Breaking the Narrative, we are joined by Dr. Alan Bostakian, an Iranian expat, change leader, and certified human rights consultant. With a background in human rights advocacy and as the founder of a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting human rights victims, Dr. Bostakian has tirelessly championed the Iranian community, an effort made even more urgent by the current unrest in the region.As a massive uprising unfolds in Iran, met with brutal massacres by the Islamic Republic, Dr. Bostakian and Jesse discuss the dire situation on the ground and what the international community can do to help. Dr. Bostakian shares his thoughts on whether the United States should intervene, how deeply the Iranian people desire change, and what it means for so many to be losing their lives in the pursuit of freedom.

When Jewish model Miriam Mattova was kicked out of an Uber simply for being Jewish, her experience quickly became a national conversation about antisemitism in everyday life.On this episode of Breaking the Narrative, Miriam joins Jesse to speak candidly about the wave of hate she has faced since the story went public, and what she believes needs to be done to keep Canadians safe from this kind of extremism. Also joining the conversation is top Canadian lawyer, Howard Levitt, who breaks down the legal implications of the incident, what protections exist, and why cases like this represent much more than just a single Uber ride.

In this powerful episode of Breaking the Narrative, Jesse sits down with Luai Ahmed, a Yemeni-born Muslim Zionist whose life could have taken a very different path. Raised in an environment shaped by extremism, indoctrination, and anti-Israel propaganda, Luai was taught from childhood to glorify martyrdom, hate the West, and embrace the ideology of groups like the Houthis.Instead, he chose truth. He chose freedom. And he chose courage.Luai shares the raw, unfiltered story of how he broke away from radical teachings, fled Yemen, rebuilt his identity in the West, and ultimately became one of the most outspoken voices calling for reform within the Muslim world. Jesse and Luai discuss extremism, the roots of antisemitism in the Middle East, the danger of Western naivety, the power of personal transformation, and what it truly takes to stand up for Israel in 2025.This is one of our most gripping conversations yet. It offers a rare look inside the mindset of someone who could have become a Houthi fighter but instead became a champion for peace, truth, and human rights.

In this episode of Breaking the Narrative, host Jesse sits down with two bold voices from the medical world: Dr. Yoni Freedhoff, an associate professor of family medicine at the University of Ottawa, and Dr. Lior Bibas, a cardiologist and president of the Association of Jewish Physicians of Quebec. Together, they explore the growing threat of antisemitism, not just in public discourse but within healthcare settings, academia, and professional life.Through candid conversation, they shed light on the challenges of speaking out against hatred in professional environments and the responsibility each of us has to confront antisemitism when we see it. We hope you enjoy the episode.

In this episode of Breaking the Narrative, Jesse is joined by Michael Hollander of Choueke Hollander, a Montreal-based law firm. Since October 7th, Michael has committed a great deal of time to supporting students on campus, and has been effective in protecting them from discrimination and bigotry. As a result, he is amongst the leading experts in the rights of Canadian students, and the challenges Jewish and pro-Israel students face on campus today. Hollander offers students practical guidance on navigating hostile environments, understanding their legal rights, and building confidence in advocacy. He shares strategies to create lasting impact within student communities while protecting themselves through legal and strategic tools. His insights equip students to stand proudly for their values and for Israel, while navigating the complexities of campus life with clarity and confidence.

Join barrister Natasha Hausdorff, an international law expert and Legal Director for UK LFI Charitable Trust, as she tackles pressing issues surrounding Israel's legal status. She discusses how international law is misapplied, the implications of Palestinian statehood recognition, and the harmful impact of media misreporting. Natasha emphasizes the need for accurate legal advocacy, challenges the double standards faced by Israel, and highlights the importance of grassroots efforts to combat misinformation. Her insights shed light on the complexities of the ongoing conflict.

In this episode of Breaking the Narrative, Jesse sits down with Jacqui Dressler, Senior Director of Advocacy at Hillel Ontario. In the face of modern campus antisemitism, the two discuss the ways in which our organizations are working together to support Jewish and pro-Israel students as the new school year begins. Jesse and Jacqui share insights from the frontlines of student advocacy, and discuss what needs to change for students to feel safe participating in Jewish life on campus. Most importantly, they highlight the importance of empowering student leaders to be the champions they are for promoting peace and coexistence on their campuses.