What happens after a 2,000-year dream comes true? In this episode, Franny Waisman explores the challenge of transforming the return to Jerusalem and the Land of Israel from an extraordinary miracle into everyday life. Joined by Eyal Turgeman, they discuss building communities in Judea and Samaria, supporting local Israeli businesses, and creating meaningful connections to the land through people, products, and purpose.
Franny opens with the iconic image of Rav Shlomo Goren sounding the shofar at the Western Wall in 1967, reflecting on how historic moments eventually become daily reality. Eyal Turgeman shares his family’s journey from central Israel to Nokdim and later Sde Boaz, explaining how each move strengthened their connection to Jewish life and the Land of Israel. He describes Sde Boaz’s unique blend of religious and secular families living together in mutual respect.
The conversation explores Eyal’s work with Harei Zahav, helping develop communities throughout Judea and Samaria, and his leadership at Lev HaOlam, a subscription box initiative created in response to the BDS movement. Rather than focusing on politics, Lev HaOlam connects supporters around the world with Israeli artisans, farmers, and entrepreneurs through carefully curated monthly boxes that tell the story of Israel through high-quality products and personal narratives.
Eyal also reflects on how October 7 reshaped one of Lev HaOlam’s planned boxes into a message of resilience with the "Am Yisrael Chai" collection, and shares his vision for the future growth of Judea and Samaria through tourism, agriculture, and vibrant communities.
About The Guest
Eyal Turgeman is the CEO of Lev HaOlam and works with Harei Zahav to help build and strengthen communities throughout Judea and Samaria. Living in Sde Boaz with his family, he is passionate about connecting people around the world to Israel through meaningful experiences, supporting local businesses, and fostering a deeper appreciation for the biblical heartland.
00:00 Life in Sde Boaz and community building
15:40 Developing communities across Judea and Samaria
21:10 The story behind Lev HaOlam
29:30 Fighting BDS by supporting Israeli businesses
46:20 Tourism, agriculture, and the future of Judea and Samaria
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Ready to experience it for yourself? Visit https://judeasamariaexperience.com/ to plan your journey to Judea and Samaria.
