Remembering Yonadav: A Mother’s Emotional Journey After Her Son’s Sacrifice in Gaza (Audio)

In this episode of 'The Avrum Rosensweig Show', Avrum speaks with Leora Levenstein, the mother of fallen IDF soldier Yonadav Levenstein, who was killed in northern Gaza in November 2023. Leora opens her heart about the devastating loss of her youngest child, lovingly nicknamed “the Viking” for his towering presence and red beard. She shares moving stories of a young man who devoured books and carried a passion for biblical studies, Jewish and world history, archaeology, geography, politics, economics, and philosophy. We also hear about Yonadav’s great love: his wife of just two months, Hadar, whom he met while excavating at the City of David. Though their first encounter was not love at first sight, Hadar quickly came to recognize Yonadav’s extraordinary spirit, and the two built a bond that led to marriage. Leora recalls the joy she still felt remembering their wedding, when a knock on the door brought the news no parent ever wants to hear. Yonadav had been killed by terrorists in Gaza, alongside his comrades. Leora describes the week of shiva as both heartbreaking and profoundly moving. Strangers from across Israel came to pay tribute, thanking her for her son’s courage and his devotion to Israel and the Jewish people. She reflects on how Yonadav gave his life for his identity, his faith, and his people. In this powerful interview, you’ll learn about Yonadav’s bravery on October 7th, the immense impact he had on those who knew him, and how his loss has been felt by his siblings, his grandparents, and most deeply, his mother. This conversation is ultimately about love, the love of a mother for her son, the love of a young couple just beginning their life together, and the enduring love of a people for a soldier, and a soldier for his land and beliefs. Please listen and share this episode, a testament to bravery, sacrifice, and the strength of a remarkable Jewish woman - Leora Levenstein. What You’ll Discover in This Episode:

• The heartbreaking and inspiring journey of a mother mourning her youngest son.
• Yonadav’s legacy of bravery, love of learning, and devotion to faith, family, and homeland.
• Stories of newlyweds and family bonds, and the ripple effects of sacrifice on siblings, grandparents, and the nation.
• Reflections on the meaning of courage, Jewish identity, and strength in times of tragedy.
• The voices of friends, family, and comrades remembering Yonadav’s warmth, wisdom, and heroism.

About Leora Levenstein: She speaks about Yonadav’s remarkable spirit, his intellect, musical gifts, humility, and devotion to Israel and the Jewish people. After October 7th, Yonadav fought bravely at Kibbutz Nir Oz, saving dozens of civilians, and was remembered by his commander and family as a talented fighter and gentle soul. During Shiva, Leora was visited by hundreds, who offered gratitude for Yonadav’s sacrifice and courage. What does it mean to give and receive love and courage in times of loss? Share your thoughts in the comments and subscribe for more stories that honour sacrifice, family, and the enduring spirit of the Jewish people. ——🎧 The Avrum Rosensweig Show —— A one-of-a-kind, intimate schmooze-fest, hosted and produced by the endlessly curious veteran radio and TV personality, Avrum Rosensweig. With warmth and wit, Avrum uncovers the secrets, dreams, and innermost thoughts of people from all walks of life. From local shelf stockers, plumbers, food servers, to crossing guards, stars, public figures, and cultural icons. Join this channel to get access to perks:    / @avrumrosensweigshow   Listen to The Avrum Rosensweigh Show on: https://open.spotify.com/show/6LZFTR0... https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... https://avrumspodcast.podbean.com/ Instagram:   / avrumrosensweigshow   TikTok:   / avrumrosensweig   #YonadavLevenstein #IDFSoldier #gazawar #IsraeliHero #LeoraLevenstein #Jewishbravery #october7memorial #cityofdavid #podcastcanada #storytellingmatters #jewishpodcast #jewishwisdom #jewishfaith #jewishlearning #jewisheducation #jewishcommunity #jewishheritage #jewishtradition #jewishculture #jewishcommunity #jewishhistory #jewishphilosophy #spiritualwisdom #motivationalpodcast #motivationalinterview #fascinatingpeople #engagingconversations #personalgrowth #lifelessons #leadershipstories #faithandwisdom #jewishinspirations #podcastinterview #theavrumrosensweigshow