Some topics feel impossible to discuss in 2025. They're too loaded, too painful, too complex. Today's episode tackles one of the most challenging: the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Through Nicole's personal journey as someone with Jewish heritage, we explore what happens when identity, politics, and humanity collide. No easy answers, just real conversation about issues that matter.

For Nicole, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict isn't just headlines - it's personal. Growing up with a Jewish father and a Christian mother meant straddling two worlds, never quite belonging in either. Jewish enough to feel the sting of antisemitism, but not Jewish enough by traditional standards to be fully embraced by the community.

It took experiencing blatant antisemitism at the University of Iowa to force a reckoning with this part of her identity. Suddenly, defending Jewish heritage became personal, even while questioning where she actually fit into the equation.

CHAPTER MARKERS:

00:00 Introduction

00:50 Addressing Viewer Questions

02:43 Personal Background and Identity

05:31 Complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict

10:03 Protests and Free Speech

14:48 Race, Religion, and Social Movements

18:10 The Impact of Social Media on Political Opinions

20:10 Personal Experiences with Social Media Posts

21:52 The Consequences of Offensive Social Media Posts

22:31 The Role of Social Media in Modern Society

25:12 The Influence of Political Figures on Social Media Behavior

27:50 Promoting Peace Through Social Media

29:17 Lighthearted 'Would You Rather' Game

RESOURCES MENTIONED:

Good for the Soul:

https://www.instagram.com/lalshareef/

LINKS:

On Instagram https://www.instagram.com/wevegottotalk/

On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WeveGotToTalk

How to find Nicole https://nicolefonarow.com/

How to find Jolene https://dibledough.com/