Basketball player Barak joins the Digital Social Hour podcast to discuss his surprising perspective on safety in Tel Aviv versus the U.S., his childhood in Israel during the second intifada, and his travels for work and basketball. Barak opens up about growing up in Boston, his rabbinical family background, and how early exposure to conflict shaped his outlook. From playing basketball in high school and college to sharing his unique experiences in both countries, this conversation offers insight into culture, safety, and personal growth. Don't miss Barack's fascinating story and thoughts on life abroad.

What You’ll Learn

🌍 The difference between growing up in Boston suburbs vs. Jerusalem during the Intifada

🏀 How early experiences shaped a lifelong love for basketball

💥 What it’s like to survive and grow up amid conflict at a young age

🇮🇱 Insights into life in Israel for a white Ashkenazi Jew

✈️ How travel and cultural exposure influenced personal growth and perspective

CHAPTERS:

00:00 - Israel vs USA

00:32 - Introduction

01:02 - Childhood in Boston and Israel

🎙️ APPLY OR CONNECT

👉 Apply to be on the podcast: https://www.digitalsocialhour.com/application

📩 Business inquiries / sponsors: [email protected]

👤 GUEST:

♟️Barak Swarttz — https://www.instagram.com/otherbarak/

💼 SPONSORS

QUINCE: https://quince.com/ds

🥗 Fuel your health with Viome: https://buy.viome.com/SEAN

Use code “Sean” at checkout for a discount!

🎧 LISTEN ON

🍏 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/digital-social-hour/id1676846015

🎵 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5Jn7LXarRlI8Hc0GtTn759

📸 Sean Kelly Instagram: @seanmikekelly

⚠️ DISCLAIMER

The views and opinions expressed by guests on Digital Social Hour are solely those of the individuals appearing on the podcast and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the host, Sean Kelly, or the Digital Social Hour team.

While we encourage open and honest discussions, Sean Kelly is not legally responsible for any statements, claims, or opinions made by guests during the show.

Listeners are encouraged to form their own opinions and seek professional advice where appropriate. The content shared is for entertainment and informational purposes only — it should not be taken as legal, medical, financial, or professional advice.

We strive to present accurate and reliable information; however, we make no guarantees regarding its completeness or accuracy. The views expressed are solely those of the speakers and do not necessarily represent those of the producers or affiliates of this program.

Keywords: Israel vs USA safety, Childhood in Jerusalem, Intifada stories, Boston to Israel, Ashkenazi Jew experience, Basketball journey, Growing up in conflict zones, War zone childhood, Life lessons from travel, Personal growth stories

#americanlifestyle #socialmediainfluence #telavivsafety #basketballinisrael #middleeasttension

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices