In this urgent and unflinching conversation, Peter Wertheim, one of Australia’s most experienced Jewish communal leaders, confronts a question many would rather avoid: why does antisemitism feel different now? From the chilling chants outside the Sydney Opera House to the terror of Bondi, from the failures of cultural institutions to the silence of political leaders, Wertheim dissects how hatred once confined to the margins has seeped into mainstream Australian life — often disguised as activism, moral righteousness or “free speech.” Calm, forensic and deeply human, this is a must-listen episode about fear, courage, and what it will take for Australia to face a problem it can no longer explain away.

In this urgent and unflinching conversation, Peter Wertheim, one of Australia&rsquo;s most experienced Jewish communal leaders, confronts a question many would rather avoid: why does antisemitism feel different now? From the chilling chants outside the Sydney Opera House to the terror of Bondi, from the failures of cultural institutions to the silence of political leaders, Wertheim dissects how hatred once confined to the margins has seeped into mainstream Australian life &mdash; often disguised as activism, moral righteousness or &ldquo;free speech.&rdquo; Calm, forensic and deeply human, this is a must-listen episode about fear, courage, and what it will take for Australia to face a problem it can no longer explain away.

The untold stories and real issues facing Israel and the Jewish community in Australia and around the world.

The untold stories and real issues facing Israel and the Jewish community in Australia and around the world.

Behind The Headlines

Behind The Headlines is your gateway to the untold stories and real issues facing Israel, the Jewish community in Australia and around the world. Hosted by Adam Slonim, the show invites guests from across the globe to explore the background, facts, and complexities behind the headlines, giving listeners a deeper insight and understanding of the challenges and opportunities that shape Israel and Jewish life today. Whether it’s examining the situation in Israel, uncovering the realities of global Jewish communities, dissecting Government and society’s changing attitudes, or discussing the pressing issues that affect us all, Behind The Headlines will provide insightful and engaging conversations that go beyond the surface.

About the Host

Adam Slonim is a seasoned commentator with a deep passion for Jewish community issues and Israeli affairs. Adam has served in community positions over many years and co-founded Labor Friends of Israel. He has taken a number of Australian Missions to Israel. He is the Managing Director of the Blended Learning Group, focusing on teaching Emotional Intelligence, and consults in Artificial Intelligence. Adam brings a wealth of experience in public engagement and education, having worked extensively with organisations and forums focused on the Middle East and global Jewish issues. Adam’s thoughtful, informed approach ensures that Behind The Headlines offers listeners meaningful, nuanced discussions on the stories that matter most.

Behind The Headlines is your gateway to the untold stories and real issues facing Israel, the Jewish community in Australia and around the world. Hosted by Adam Slonim, the show invites guests from across the globe to explore the background, facts, and complexities behind the headlines, giving listeners a deeper insight and understanding of the challenges and opportunities that shape Israel and Jewish life today. Whether it’s examining the situation in Israel, uncovering the realities of global Jewish communities, dissecting Government and society’s changing attitudes, or discussing the pressing issues that affect us all, Behind The Headlines will provide insightful and engaging conversations that go beyond the surface.
About the Host
Adam Slonim is a seasoned commentator with a deep passion for Jewish community issues and Israeli affairs. Adam has served in community positions over many years and co-founded Labor Friends of Israel. He has taken a number of Australian Missions to Israel. He is the Managing Director of the Blended Learning Group, focusing on teaching Emotional Intelligence, and consults in Artificial Intelligence. Adam brings a wealth of experience in public engagement and education, having worked extensively with organisations and forums focused on the Middle East and global Jewish issues. Adam’s thoughtful, informed approach ensures that Behind The Headlines offers listeners meaningful, nuanced discussions on the stories that matter most.