IsraelCast Episode 146

Zack Bodner is a bridge-builder. The CEO of the Oshman Family Jewish Community Center, Bodner has been creating dialogue and understanding between diaspora and Israeli Jews through his Z3 project. As a former AIPAC regional director who has worked on college campuses, Bodner has experience with Jews from all walks of life, and understands the important role Israel has played in Jewish history and the importance of coming together as a people despite our differences. Host Steven Shalowitz sits down with Bodner to discuss the three central principles of the Z3 project, the ambivalence he feels over anti-Zionist Jews, and how being Jewish means different things to different people.

Under his leadership, the JCC completed the construction of its campus, oversaw the creation of a new Center for Social Impact, and launched the Taube Center for Jewish Peoplehood. Bodner is also the author of the book Why Do Jewish? A Manifesto for 21st century Jewish Peoplehood. Before joining the JCC, he served for 14 years as the Pacific Northwest Regional Director of AIPAC. He currently serves on the Boards of JCCA of North America, JCC Global, and American Friends of Tel Aviv University Northern California.