On The DL

Michal Ohana is a survivor of the Nova music festival massacre. Shot in the leg and bleeding, she spent seven hours hiding in terror, convinced she would not survive. Her account to Dana is a chilling window into that day’s unimaginable atrocities. Michal saw friends and strangers’ innocence shattered. She recalls every sound, every movement, and every heartbeat as a prayer to stay alive. This experience, etched in her mind, now fuels her mission to ensure the world knows what really happened. Speaking around the globe Michal’s courage brings a voice to the silenced, urging all of us to remember and confront the raw truth. She is a beacon for justice and a reminder of why we must stand up against such evil. Michal is proof that we can and must share these stories, resist hatred, and advocate for the innocent. Another must listen.

Ella Shani a 15-year-old survivor of the October 7th attack on Kibbutz Be’eri spent 11 harrowing hours hiding in a safe room with her mother, brother, and his friend. While she survived, the toll on her family was unimaginable. Her father was murdered, her 80-year-old grandparents were shot, her uncle’s home was set on fire as her cousins struggled to stay alive inside, and one of her cousins was taken hostage. Dana has spoken with many survivors, but this is her first conversation with a teenager. In their conversation, Ella shares not only the heartbreak of losing her father but also the haunting images of that day, things she wishes she could erase from her memory. Dana sits down with Ella to hear her story of survival and to understand what life has been like for this young girl who dreams of nothing more than going home and reclaiming her life.

Eylon Levy stands out as one of the most prolific and influential voices in Israel today. During Dana's recent trip to Israel she sat down over coffee with Eylon to talk about the most pressing issues. Israel is being pounded by terrorists groups on all fonts and going to war seems closer to ever. Eylon is the co-founder of the @israelcitizenspox, where you can catch live daily briefings. He is the former Israel government spokesperson and international media advisor to the president of Israel, and host of @stateofaPod.

“Israeli Jewish women are made with a different chromosome that helps them deal with grief” Iris Haim. Dana has wanted to speak with Iris Haim ever since she heard that Iris extended an invitation to the soldiers that killed her son. Yotem was taken hostage on October 7th. After 70 days in captivity an Israeli soldier tragically shot Yotem when he mistook him for a terrorist. Iris is brave, beyond resilient, and could teach very single one of us the true meaning of forgiveness.

Shai Deluca doesn't shy away from anything, not even antisemitism. The media personality and interior designer speaks to Dana about his recent heartache both at work and with many friends. Shai who is from Israel weighs in on the state of the world, and what is happening on Canadian streets. He has changed his social platforms to serve as source of education and information, often disseminating the news to provide a more truthful narrative.

In October 2015, Eitan Chitayat posted his "I’m That Jew" video on Facebook, igniting a phenomenon that resonated deeply with millions worldwide. His message reached 15 million viewers, sparking conversations and shedding light on the Jewish experience. Fast forward to October 2023, following the devastating terrorist attack on Israel and a surge in antisemitic campaigns worldwide, Eitan expanded his platform to confront hatred and educate others through his "I'm That Jew" campaign. In a meaningful conversation Dana and Eitan delve into the dehumanization faced by Jewish people and how his campaign celebrates all facets of Jewish life.Through creativity and passion, Eitan's campaign has served as a beacon of strength and solidarity, reminding the world of Jewish heritage and achievements. "I’m That Jew" empowers individuals to speak out against hate and antisemitism, fostering unity and resilience within the community and beyond. This is an incredible conversation that may leave you smiling.

Linor Attias, a trained emergency medical services volunteer with United Hatzalah in Israel, woke up on October 7th to a missile attack but soon realized that this was not the usual rocket attack being launched at Israel. With determination, she kissed her two daughters goodbye, grabbed her equipment, and made her way to the Gaza periphery. Linor shares her story, along with the stories of numerous victims, with Dana. This is yet another difficult but very important conversation. As Linor explains, Israel is fighting two battles right now: the war on the ground and the PR war around the world. She is determined to share her story because the world needs to hear the truth.

To mark international Women’s Day 2024 we remember all the female victims of the Hamas attack on Israel. The subject matter is hard but this conversation is crucial. Professor Ruth Haplerin Kadarri, law professor from Israel and a previous member of the UN committee on the elimination of all forms of discrimination against women joins Dana to speak the truth about the horrendous sexual violence that took place on October 7th, and what she knows to be happening to the remaining female hostages held in Gaza. Even with the new UN report from the Special Representative of the Secretary General that finds sexual violence occurred on October 7th, there is still denial from most of the world.

"It's not about how much you want it, but how hard you're willing to work for it. Forever." These words from Suzan Galluzzo, transformation coach, holistic nutritionist, and creator of the Best of You program, summarizes a profound truth about weight loss and maintaining health goals. In an anothe candid conversation with Dana, Suzan delves into the reasons why many women struggle with regaining weight after putting in tremendous effort to lose it. Suzan shares invaluable insights into breaking the cycle of the yo-yo dilemma and offers practical strategies for sustaining long-term weight loss success. Her expertise sheds light on what women need to do to overcome these challenges and maintain their health goals effectively.

"We love our Jewishness more than they hate us for it," encapsulates the resilience and determination that echoes throughout this beautiful conversation. Dana speaks with Ben M. Freeman, an internationally renowned author, educator, and Jewish advocate. Against the backdrop of the alarming rise in anti-Semitism post the October 7th terror attack, Ben shares insights into his work and addresses the profound commonality and bond experienced by Jewish people worldwide. Ben, the founder of the modern Jewish Pride movement, delves into the significance of rejecting the shame associated with anti-Semitism. Drawing inspiration from his experiences with LGBTQ+ pride, he emphasizes the importance of empowerment and education in combating prejudice. Ben is the author of the Jewish Pride Manifesto, "Jewish Pride: Rebuilding a People," and "Jewish Pride: Reclaiming Our Story." In this critical juncture in Jewish history, Ben advocates for reclaiming pride and rejecting the burden of shame.

As a mother, a Jewish woman, and as a human being Dana knew she had to speak with Rachel Goldberg. The reason for their discussion is both heart-wrenching and urgent: Rachel's son, Hersh Goldberg Polin, suffered severe and brutal injuries during the Nova music festival in Israel on October 7th. Tragically, Hersh was taken hostage and has not been seen or heard from since. Rachel shares with Dana the depth of her determination and resilience, vowing to traverse every corner of the earth to bring her son and the other 133 hostages back. Her unwavering commitment is undeniable as she declares that she will never, ever give up until they are safely returned home. This conversation is a powerful exploration of the unbreakable bond between mothers and the lengths they are willing to go to protect and fight for their children. The shared pain and strength between Dana and Rachel create a moving narrative that resonates with the universal theme of a mother's love and unwavering determination.

Jared Armstrong is 27 years old, an African American basketball player living in Israel. Jared is also born Jewish and he has dedicted his work to building a strong alliance between African American and Jewish communities. Jared and Dana talk about how his work has never been more important with anti-semitism reaching epic levels combined with the lack of support from the international black community. Jared shares how this has been a painful expericence but he is determined to help create a greater partnership between the two traditionally marginalized groups so they can support each other in their struggles for justice and equality. Jared also recounts his personal journey, including his escape from his hometown under siege on October 7th.

Navigating through hard discussions, this interview is no exception. Ashley Waxman Bakshi, a Canadian-born Israeli woman, sits down with Dana to shed light on her crucial role in providing factual information about the ongoing conflict in Israel. Ashley began her on line profile as an immensely popular beauty blogger with hundreds of thousands of followers but has now redirected her platform toward disseminating the truth amid a sea of misinformation and propaganda. Dana was drawn to Ashley's daily posts, given her perspective with a master's degree in counter-terrorism, with a thesis focusing on the radical and fundamental ideologies of radical Islam. As Ashley shares with Dana, the power of truth is amplified when goodness is on your side. The conversation delves into Ashley's experiences in a war zone, the impact of woke culture on anti-Semitism, and her insights into the potential outcomes in the Middle East.

It may seem impossible to speak out and stand up to anti semitism but Claudia Chan has made a choice to use her voice. The New York Times celebrated author and life coach explains to Dana why she believes her life calling is now advocacy and allyship. Dana and Claudia have a very moving and truthful conversation about the betrayal and pain the jewish community is feeling, and how you can use your voice to become an advocate.

On The DL went live in front of a studio audience in Toronto. Dr. Heather Hirsch, a leading women's mid-life health specialist took to the stage with Dana to have a honest conversation about the realities for women in their menopausal years. Many audience members had the opportunity to ask their personal health questions, adding to the informative and enlightening conversation.

Oprah may have said it best : You can not out run, out-earn, or out-exercise the big M. The menopause train is coming no matter what. You may have seen Dr. Heather Hirsch, a leading expert in women's mid life health on Oprah Daily. Her no bullsh*t approach to menopause is helping thousands of women as they begin journey. 1 BILLION women around the world will go into menopause this year and still way too many continue to suffer as they are misunderstood, misdiagnosed, and underserved. How do women receive the medical care and intervention they need to navigate their health? Heather snd Dana discuss how women can advocate for their health to feel their best as their body goes through this monumental change. This is a must listen episode for every women because like it or not the M Train is coming and you are getting on it .

1.5 million followers tune into the daily dose of The Real Slim Sherri. She has become the voice of Gen X, sharing her unfiltered insights with humour. Sherri Dias's short version daily videos captures the essence of 'adulting' after living through the 80's which promises you a laugh, perhaps a cry, or a mix of a good giggle with a deep thought. Sherri and Dana have an incredible chat as Sherri explains why she is committed to building a community of like minded people as she continues to disrupt the norms aging. If you are a Gen X'er this is a must listen.

Not many people can say they have been in the same job for more than half their life. Can you imagine what it would feel like to leave? Intrigued by having the courage to make a such a life-altering change, Dana needs to know. She speaks with her former co-worker and dear friend from CTV. After 34 years Austin Delaney said goodbye to CTV News. He is a Toronto icon. It has been only three days since he left his job when Austin and Dana catch up. The two CTV News alumni shared a desk for many years and reminisce about their time working closely together in the often crazy world of news. Austin also speaks candidly about the reasons why he chose to leave now, the bravery it takes to walk away from a long career, why he doesn't mind the word 'retired', and the peace he has with his decision.

If you have ever drank green juice for a period of time there is a good chance you have experienced its healing and powerful properties. Holistic Nutritionist Nadia Kotsos, owner of Drink Juice Co shares the science behind pure organic cold pressed juices. If you live with digestive issues, skin problems, fluctuating weight, joint pain, mood disorders and mental health concerns juice may help you press the restart button on your health. From celery to cinnamon, and why anti-inflammatory nutrition works Nadia covers it all.

When you hit mid life you start to feel different. You just do. You may have to work harder at your health. You may see changes with your body you don't like. Naturopathic physician and certified anti-aging specialist Dr. Allana Polo offers Dana her concrete advice and says your health journey has to be simple and sustainable. It is hard to cover it all but Dr. Polo and Dana unpack a lot of information on how to age well. They talk about all the things including sugar cravings, alcohol, lack of energy, DHEA, balancing hormones, libido, sleep, hair loss, weight gain, fasting and supplements. This is a must listen for every woman.