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Nothing But The Truth

Trudy Stern

Get to the heart of the issues facing the Jewish community in the U.S. and Israel with real facts, real stories, and real voices. This podcast cuts through the noise, providing listeners with straightforward, unbiased insights into current events, cultural discussions, and policy shifts that impact Jewish life today. Featuring interviews with influential experts and leaders—from members of Congress to community advocates—each episode brings listeners closer to the truth behind the headlines, empowering them with the knowledge to stay informed and engaged.

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21 episodes
weekly
Avg 31 min
English

Episodes 21

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Thursday · 29 min
Michael Fragin
Trudy Stern and political strategist Michael Fragin discuss how the DSA and other progressive groups have built political power by focusing on low-turnout Democratic primaries, particularly in heavily Democratic New York districts. They examine the weaknesses of the current primary system, the Democratic Party's response to the leftward shift, and whether increased voter turnout, grassroots organizing, and electoral reform could counter the movement's influence.
August 13 · 29 min
Dr. Jonathan Schanzer
Trudy Stern is joined by Dr. Jonathan Schanzer to examine the ongoing conflict with Iran, the weakening of its proxy network, the stalled negotiations, and the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz. They also discuss Iran’s internal instability, the IRGC, and what the conflict could mean for U.S. national security and the region’s future.
August 7 · 35 min
Sid Rosenberg
In this episode of Nothing But the Truth, Trudy Stern is joined by veteran radio host Sid Rosenberg to discuss the political fallout from Michigan's closely watched Democratic Senate primary and what it may signal about the future direction of the Democratic Party. Together, they examine the nomination of Dr. Abdul El-Sayed, the growing influence of progressive candidates, and the debate surrounding his positions on Israel and U.S. foreign policy. They also explore what these developments could mean for New York, national politics, and the upcoming elections, while discussing the challenges facing the Democratic Party and the broader political landscape.
July 30 · 22 min
Bruce Blakeman
In this episode of Nothing But the Truth, host Trudy Stern sits down with Nassau County Executive and gubernatorial candidate Bruce Blakeman for an in-depth conversation about the future of New York State. Blakeman shares his vision for restoring New York's economic strength, improving public safety, lowering taxes, and making the state more attractive to families and businesses. The discussion explores population loss, affordability, education, energy policy, business investment, and immigration, as well as his record leading Nassau County and how he would apply those policies statewide if elected governor. He also discusses his approach to working with New York City's leadership and the challenges he believes New York must address to regain its competitiveness and prosperity.
July 21 · 36 min
Mike LeBlanc
On this episode of Nothing But the Truth, Trudy Stern speaks with former U.S. Marine Corps Major and Foundation co-founder Mike LeBlanc about how artificial intelligence, autonomous systems, and robotics are transforming modern warfare. Drawing on his military experience and work in defense technology, LeBlanc explains how drones and AI are reshaping the battlefield, reducing risks to service members, and redefining military strategy. The conversation explores lessons from Ukraine and Israel, the future of autonomous defense systems, and how emerging technologies are changing the way wars are fought.
July 15 · 35 min
Ezra Cohen
On this episode of Nothing But the Truth, Trudy Stern speaks with former Acting Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence and Security Ezra Cohen about the evolving situation in Iran following U.S. and Israeli military operations. Cohen discusses the damage to Iran's nuclear program, the regime's internal power struggles, the challenges of enforcing the new memorandum of understanding, and how shifting alliances, cyber threats, and global security dynamics are reshaping the international landscape. Together, they examine what comes next for Iran, the United States, Israel, and the broader Middle East.
July 9 · 34 min
Ari Hoffman
On this episode of Nothing But the Truth, Trudy Stern speaks with Seattle radio host Ari Hoffman about the city’s political and cultural transformation over the past two decades. Using Seattle as a case study, they discuss progressive governance, public safety, homelessness, drug policy, taxation, and the broader implications these policies could have for other major cities, including New York.
June 25 · 32 min
Assemblyman David Weprin
On this episode of Nothing But the Truth, Trudy Stern speaks with Assemblyman David Weprin about the political fallout from New York’s Democratic primary elections and what the results could mean for the future of the Democratic Party. They discuss the rise of Democratic Socialist-backed candidates, voter turnout, shifting political priorities, and the implications for New York, Israel, and national politics.
June 18 · 31 min
Rear Admiral (Ret) Mark Montgomery
On this episode of Nothing But the Truth, Trudy Stern speaks with Admiral Mark Montgomery about the proposed U.S.-Iran memorandum of understanding and the major questions surrounding its contents. Montgomery examines concerns over sanctions relief, Iran’s nuclear and ballistic missile programs, regional proxy groups, and the potential consequences of a future agreement. The conversation explores whether the deal represents a diplomatic breakthrough or a risky concession, and what it could mean for the United States, Israel, and stability in the Middle East.
June 11 · 25 min
Jonathan Schanzer
On this episode of Nothing But the Truth, Trudy Stern speaks with Jonathan Schanzer about escalating tensions between the United States and Iran following recent attacks and retaliatory strikes. Schanzer explains the regional dynamics involving Iran, Israel, and proxy groups, and argues that the conflict reflects a long-running pattern of Iranian aggression and instability. The conversation explores the limits of diplomacy, the risks of wider war, and the strategic options available to the United States moving forward.
June 4 · 30 min
Rachel Storch
On this episode of Nothing But the Truth, Trudy Stern speaks with Rachel Storch about the importance of local and state elections in shaping public policy, public safety, education, and civic life. Storch explains the mission of the New York Solidarity Network, which helps voters better understand local races, candidates, and issues that often receive little public attention. The conversation explores voter engagement, civic participation, and why informed involvement in local politics can have lasting impacts on New York and beyond.
May 29 · 29 min
Joel Finkelstein
On this episode of Nothing But the Truth, Trudy Stern speaks with Joel Finkelstein about how social media, online radicalization, and “narrative warfare” have become major weapons in modern conflict. Finkelstein explains why he founded the Network Contagion Research Institute after noticing how intelligent people were increasingly adopting extreme ideological views online. The conversation explores how digital platforms amplify polarization, mob mentality, disinformation, and antisemitism, while also examining how online hate and coordinated narratives can spill into real-world violence and social unrest.
May 14 · 27 min
Scott Singer
On this episode of Nothing But the Truth, Trudy Stern discusses the growing national importance of redistricting and how recent court battles in states like Virginia and Florida could shape the balance of power in Congress. She’s joined by Scott Singer, who explains why Virginia’s redistricting effort was struck down by the state Supreme Court on procedural grounds and contrasts it with Florida’s legally approved redistricting process. The conversation explores how shifting populations, Supreme Court rulings on race-based districts, and political migration are reshaping congressional maps and influencing upcoming elections, particularly in South Florida.
May 7 · 34 min
Mitchell Silber
On this episode of Nothing But the Truth, host Trudy Stern examines the rise of antisemitism following recent vandalism targeting Jewish homes and synagogues in Queens. Joined by counterterrorism expert Mitchell Silber, the conversation explores the growing range of threats facing Jewish communities, from white supremacists and Islamist extremists to far-left anti-Israel movements and Iran-backed actors. Silber explains how the Community Security Initiative works with law enforcement and local institutions to detect threats, strengthen security, and protect Jewish communities across New York and beyond.
April 30 · 39 min
Jonathan Schanzer
On Nothing But the Truth, host Trudy Stern is joined by national security expert Jonathan Schanzer to break down the evolving conflict with Iran. As the fighting shifts from direct military strikes to an aggressive economic strategy, they explore how sanctions, blockades, and control of key النفط routes like the Strait of Hormuz are reshaping the battlefield. Schanzer explains the real impact of cutting off Iran’s oil revenues, the risks of escalation, and how global players like China and Russia factor into the equation. The episode offers a clear look at a conflict now defined less by bombs—and more by economic pressure, strategy, and endurance.
April 23 · 26 min
Saritha Komatireddy
On Nothing But the Truth, host Trudy Stern examines the high-stakes race for New York Attorney General with candidate Saritha Komatireddy. The conversation explores the scope of the Attorney General’s power and its real-world impact on public safety, crime, and civil rights across the state. Komatireddy outlines her approach to addressing issues like transit crime, car theft, and rising hate crimes, while discussing how the role can support local law enforcement and shape policy priorities. The episode highlights the broader debate over how the office should be used—and what’s at stake for New Yorkers.
April 7 · 34 min
Elise Stefanik
On Nothing But the Truth, host Trudy Stern speaks with Elise Stefanik about rising concerns over antisemitism and ideological shifts on college campuses. Stefanik reflects on her widely viewed congressional questioning of university leaders and discusses her book Poisoned Ivies, which examines the cultural, academic, and political forces shaping higher education. The conversation explores issues including campus leadership, free speech, foreign funding, and the role universities play in influencing future generations. Stefanik outlines her perspective on how these trends developed over time and what steps policymakers and institutions might take to address them.
March 25 · 35 min
Ambassador David Friedman
On Nothing But the Truth, host Trudy Stern speaks with former U.S. Ambassador to Israel David Friedman about the escalating conflict with Iran and what it could mean for the future of the Middle East and global stability. Drawing on his diplomatic experience, Friedman discusses the threat of a nuclear Iran, the possibility of regime change, and the broader regional implications—including shifting alliances and the emergence of new power blocs. The conversation also explores the human toll of the conflict in Israel and the growing divide in U.S. political discourse, raising urgent questions about leadership, strategy, and what comes next.
March 19 · 31 min
Yehuda Kaploun
On Nothing But the Truth, host Trudy Stern explores the accelerating rise of antisemitism worldwide, from incidents in Europe and North America to growing concerns about normalization and online amplification. She is joined by Yehuda Kaploun, who outlines his role advising the U.S. government and working with international partners to monitor and combat these threats. The discussion examines antisemitism not only as a form of hate, but as a broader issue tied to national security, social stability, and religious freedom. Kaploun points to challenges including inconsistent global responses, underreporting of incidents, and political reluctance to confront the issue directly. He also reflects on recent experiences abroad, highlighting both the severity of the problem and the ongoing efforts to strengthen cooperation and accountability across countries.
March 12 · 34 min
Hank Sheinkopf
On this episode of Nothing But the Truth, Trudy Stern sits down with veteran Democratic strategist Hank Sheinkopf to examine the ideological shift happening inside the Democratic Party and the growing influence of the Democratic Socialists of America. Sheinkopf contrasts traditional Democratic priorities—public safety, labor alliances, capitalism, and strong support for the State of Israel—with what he describes as the rising power of DSA-aligned candidates and grassroots organizing strategies. The conversation explores how modern campaigns are built, the role of money and messaging in politics, and whether the changes unfolding within the party represent a temporary factional fight or a deeper transformation of American politics.

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