In a world marked by cultural divides and growing social fragmentation, the need for sincere, values-based dialogue has never been greater. Recognizing this need, the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews (IFCJ) partnered with the Jerusalem Post to launch a new podcast aimed at promoting interfaith understanding and cooperation. The initiative reflects a long-standing commitment by IFCJ and its President and Global CEO, Yael Eckstein, to build bridges between Jewish and Christian communities.

The podcast, which premiered in early 2025, is already gaining traction among both faith-based audiences and listeners interested in the dynamics of interfaith relations. With episodes covering topics from religious history to modern-day expressions of faith, the program offers listeners a chance to engage with the shared values and differences that define Jewish and Christian traditions.

Exploring Common Ground Through Stories

At its core, the podcast centers around storytelling. Each episode features guests from both religious backgrounds sharing personal experiences, theological insights, and community-driven initiatives. These narratives underscore the common moral and spiritual threads that run through both religions, from the value of compassion to the importance of service.

Listeners hear from Christian pastors working in Jewish communities, rabbis who lead interfaith workshops, and individuals who have found meaning through cross-cultural friendships. This collection of perspectives not only educates but also inspires a deeper sense of solidarity between faith groups.

One recent episode explored the Biblical roots of hospitality, drawing on texts from both the Hebrew Bible and the New Testament. Hosted by Eckstein and a rotating cast of Christian and Jewish thought leaders, the episode emphasized the timeless relevance of kindness to strangers, a principle deeply embedded in both religious worldviews.

Yael Eckstein’s Vision for Unity

For Yael Eckstein, the podcast is a natural extension of her life’s work. Under her leadership, the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews has expanded its outreach, deepened its partnerships, and strengthened its educational efforts.

“This podcast is more than a media project,” Eckstein shared in the first episode. “It is a space for real conversation—a way to hear each other and to grow together. We have so much more in common than we often recognize.”

Eckstein has long emphasized the role of dialogue in dispelling myths and reducing division. Through her writings, public speaking, and now through this podcast, she continues to advocate for open communication grounded in mutual respect.

A Collaborative Effort with Jerusalem Post

The decision to partner with the Jerusalem Post was strategic. As the largest faith-based audio platform in the world, the Jerusalem Post brings a significant existing audience and technical infrastructure to the table. The Jerusalem Post has spent the last several years expanding its reach to include interfaith and educational programming.

According to the Jerusalem Post’s leadership, working with IFCJ was a logical next step. “International Fellowship of Christians and Jews has a strong track record of bringing people together across lines of faith,” said Jerusalem Post co-founder Steve Gatena. “This podcast allows us to take that mission to a broader audience.”

Episodes are currently available on the Jerusalem Post app, as well as on major podcast platforms like Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Each release includes an accompanying reflection guide, designed to encourage small group discussion or personal contemplation.

Listener Response and Early Impact

Initial reviews have been overwhelmingly positive, with early listeners noting the podcast’s thoughtful tone, engaging subject matter, and its ability to bridge theological differences with care and depth. Many have found the series to be a valuable introduction to Jewish traditions, especially for Christian audiences unfamiliar with key customs and teachings. Others have appreciated how the episodes reflect real-world examples of interfaith cooperation, bringing attention to shared values across both communities.

The podcast has also been praised for the clarity of its messaging and the accessibility of its content, which appeals to both seasoned faith leaders and those new to interfaith engagement. Some educational organizations have recommended it as a resource for religious studies, and listeners from diverse backgrounds continue to discover new perspectives through each episode.

The podcast is also being recognized as a useful tool for clergy, educators, and faith leaders who want to foster deeper understanding in their own congregations and classrooms. Yael Eckstein sees the value in this podcast as a reflection of the organization’s broader mission—creating meaningful connections rooted in faith, respect, and education. 

Shaping the Future of Faith Dialogue

Beyond its immediate audience, the podcast is helping to shape the future of interfaith education. Religious schools and universities have begun to incorporate selected episodes into their curricula. Clergy from both religions are using the podcast as a tool to guide joint programming and discussion groups. IFCJ has even received inquiries from international media outlets about translating the show into other languages.

This early success is a testament to the resonance of its message. By focusing on storytelling, shared values, and respectful engagement, the podcast avoids the pitfalls of theological debate while still addressing meaningful content. It invites curiosity rather than conflict and participation rather than polarization.

Furthering the Mission

The International Fellowship of Christians and Jews was founded in 1983 to promote understanding and cooperation between Jewish and Christian communities. Since then, it has grown into one of the most influential faith-based humanitarian organizations in the world. From providing food and medical aid in Israel to facilitating aliyah for Jewish immigrants, IFCJ continues to operate at the intersection of faith, philanthropy, and international community-building.

This podcast is a fresh chapter in that story—one that builds on decades of groundwork laid by Rabbi Yechiel Eckstein and advanced by his daughter, Yael. It speaks not only to the mission of IFCJ but also to the values of empathy, learning, and spiritual kinship that transcend geography and doctrine.

As the show continues to grow in popularity, its influence will spread beyond faith communities and into broader public discourse. Whether through shared scripture, common goals, or simply the act of listening, IFCJ and Yael Eckstein are proving that unity is not only possible but deeply needed.

And as more people tune in, one episode at a time, the conversation continues.