Boots on the Ground

Host Ari Kalker sits down with Brigadier General (Res.) Danny Van Buren, founder of Nikra’im LaDegel (“Called to the Flag”), for a powerful and deeply inspiring conversation on free speech, democracy, and service — and what they mean for Israel’s future. Together, they explore how Israel can rebuild unity, restore integrity in leadership, and shape a shared vision rooted in purpose and responsibil...

Hope fills the air as hostages finally return home and families are reunited in scenes of profound relief and joy. Across Israel, there is a sense of celebration, songs, tears, and gratitude after months of anguish. Yet even as the ceasefire brings a brief calm, uncertainty looms. Is this a step toward lasting peace or just another pause before the next challenge? Shaun and Ari reflect on the powe...

In this episode, we break down the latest developments on Israel’s borders with Lebanon, Syria, and Gaza. We also dive into the recent meeting between Prime Minister Netanyahu and President Trump,what it means, the possible outcomes, and how it could reshape the regional dynamic. We’ll close by looking at world opinion and why, despite the challenges, there are real reasons for optimism about Isra...

Ari sits down with Master Sergeant (Res.) Haim Brenner to explore the realities of life as a combat soldier in the IDF and how military service shapes the professional and personal paths of young Israelis. They dive into the ongoing challenges of continuing combat service as a reservist, discussing how commando training prepares soldiers for life after the army — and what we can expect from the ne...

Ari sits down with Yoni Glatt to share the moving story of Aryeh Adventures, a camp founded in memory of Yoni’s uncle, who was tragically murdered in the 9/11 attacks. The camp’s mission is to make inclusion a lived reality by bringing together children with learning and mental disabilities and their mainstream peers, creating bonds of friendship, understanding, and acceptance. More than just fun...

In this powerful episode, Ari sits down with Colonel Hezi Nehama, a legendary IDF commander whose service began in Sayeret Matkal, the army’s most elite unit. From his early days in Israel’s top special forces to commanding positions across the IDF, including the Alexandroni Brigade and extensive combat experience in Gaza, Hezi shares hard-earned lessons about courage, sacrifice, and the spirit of...

Ari and Shaun pull no punches in dissecting the gap between Israel’s brave soldiers, who continue to dominate tactically on the battlefield in Gaza, and the failures of senior military brass and political leaders, who squander these victories and leave Israel strategically stuck. They tackle the absence of vision at the top, the cynical politicization of the hostage protests, and the dangerous cos...

In this uplifting episode, Ari speaks with Etan and Malkie about a unique and powerful way of supporting Israeli soldiers in the field: Beef jerky!. Far beyond a simple food item, these packages offer true nourishment for both body and soul, protein for strength, and soul food that reminds soldiers they are cared for and never forgotten.  Born out of the horrors of October 7, as a way to provide p...

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 un...

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 i...

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 tha...

Shaun and Ari discuss the political tremors shaking Israel’s government as the ultra-Orthodox parties exit the coalition, leaving Netanyahu with a fragile grip on power, and what could come next? They also turn their attention to the escalating crisis in Syria. Who are the Druze, and why is their fate so deeply intertwined with Israel’s strategic and moral concerns? From historical context to pres...

Following Netanyahu’s meeting with Trump, Shaun and Ari go head-to-head over the limits of any possible hostage deal. What are the short-term gains—and what are the long-term pitfalls? They debate Israel’s red lines, the zero-sum nature of the conflict, and the political calculus driving decisions behind the scenes. From high-stakes negotiations to the Knesset power plays and the looming Ultra-Ort...

Shaun and Ari Discuss Israel is proud to partner with the Jerusalem Media Group to relaunch as Boots on the Ground: Insights on Israel’s War, Politics, and Identity. In this premiere episode, Shaun and Ari dive into Israel’s most urgent challenges—from the conflict with Iran and tensions on the northern border, to the ongoing war in Gaza. They offer contrasting perspectives on the ceasefire with I...

Ari talks with Or Yissachar (IDSF) about the ticking clock on Iran’s nuclear program. Can diplomacy stop it—or is a strike inevitable? They cover U.S.-Israel coordination, Gulf state fears, campus protests, and what Iran’s ambitions really mean for the region. Plus, Or shares why he still sees hope in Israel’s next generation.

While the IDF continues battling Hamas in Gaza, there are constant rumblings about an imminent ceasefire and hostage deal. Shaun and Ari tackle ask the issue: Should Israel strike a deal with Hamas to bring the hostages home—or press on to total victory, even if it means risking their lives? We will discuss and argue the military, moral, and political stakes of the current debate. Can Israel affor...

In this episode: Ari returns from a whirlwind speaking tour across the United States and shares powerful stories from the road.  From synagogues to student centers, he met Jews of all ages and backgrounds—Orthodox and secular, young professionals and retirees, students on fire for Israel and others grappling with complex questions. Ari reflects on eye-opening conversations on college campuses, whe...

As the Gaza war drags on and Netanyahu faces yet another scandal, Shaun and Ari break down a week of reckoning. They dive into the QatarGate controversy, exploring alleged Qatari connections within Netanyahu’s inner circle, and the abrupt firing of Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar—a move that raises serious questions about Israel’s intelligence failures and political loyalties. With Memorial Day casting a...

In this episode, Shaun and Ari dive into the most pressing political and social issues shaping Israel today. We examine the stability of Netanyahu’s government, the renewed war in Gaza, and the escalating protests over judicial reform—breaking down the key developments and their potential consequences. Finally, we make bold predictions for the months ahead—will there be  New elections?  A full-sca...

Shaun and Ari discuss the fascinating transformation of Israel’s economy—from its early socialist foundations, dominated by kibbutzim and government-controlled industries, to becoming the global powerhouse of innovation known as the "Startup Nation." They explore key moments in Israel’s economic history, including the impact of mass immigration, wars, privatization, the construction boom...

Shaun and Ari discuss the hidden players and behind-the-scenes funding that have fueled Israel's most significant protest movements over the past two decades.  From the 2000 campaign to withdraw the IDF from Lebanon the 2005 Gaza disengagement protests to the 2011 Gilad Shalit deal demonstrations, the anti-Netanyahu movements , the 2023 anti-government protests , and the o ngoing hostage deal...

Shaun and Ari kick off the new season with a deep dive into the past 500 days of war. In this episode:  We reflect on key events, analyze major developments, and set the stage for the discussions ahead.  We share our controversial thoughts on the latest ceasefire deal with Hamas and the toll of the ongoing hostage crisis. We look at Israel’s dismal political leadership, the strength of our soldier...

As season 1 of our podcast draws to a close, we find ourselves called to new responsibilities: Shaun has been called to reserve duty, and Ari will soon follow.  In the wake of the tragedies of October 7, we wanted to finish on a hopeful note. Today, a year later, a new generation of Israeli leaders is stepping forward with resilience and vision, offering renewed hope for our nation and our people....

As we mark one year since the outbreak of the war, we bring you a special interview with Brigadier General Amir Avivi. In this insightful conversation, Ari sits down with General Avivi to explore his strategic vision for a secure and prosperous future for Israel and the Jewish people. Together, they discuss the lessons learned from the conflict, the challenges Israel faces today, and the path forw...

In this episode we discuss the complex and multifaceted issue of the Temple Mount. We explore its profound religious significance in Judaism and provide a historical overview of the area. The discussion includes the diverse religious opinions surrounding the Temple Mount—why some believe ascending is encouraged, while others uphold a strong prohibition. We also take a look at the practical steps i...