The OCU Chronicle Podcast
The OCU Chronicle Podcast
Podcast Description
A brand-new quarterly newspaper created by students, for students—your go-to source for bold student voices and opinion pieces, insights from Jewish founders and thought leaders, lifestyle content, and real talk about college life. theocuchronicle.substack.com
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
Explores themes relevant to college life, Jewish identity, activism, and storytelling, with episodes addressing topics like Jewish resilience post-October 7, student activism, and the intersection of media and personal identity, such as Zibby Owens discussing the importance of meeting authors where they are.
A brand-new quarterly newspaper created by students, for students—your go-to source for bold student voices and opinion pieces, insights from Jewish founders and thought leaders, lifestyle content, and real talk about college life.
by Ben Sherman, Longhorn Students for Israel Co-Founder
Long before Ari Ackerman began using his platform to reach millions online, he was shaped by a deeply personal legacy. His grandfather was one of the early architects of the modern State of Israel, and his mother’s home “felt like a Jewish catering hall” because of how often she hosted events. All of this instilled in him the belief that Judaism is more than just a religion, it’s a responsibility.
In our interview, Ari speaks candidly about the transferable skills from his entrepreneurial career—persuasion, teamwork, and communication—and how they apply just as powerfully to grassroots advocacy. He reminds us that leadership isn’t always a title. “Everyone has a platform,” he insists. “Whether it’s one person or 50,000, it matters.”
He doesn’t shy away from tackling the big, sometimes uncomfortable, questions either: Are Jewish students being asked to bear too much of the burden? How do we maintain momentum when fatigue sets in? And how do we activate not just leaders, but the everyday students who may not see themselves as advocates yet?
Perhaps most powerfully, Ari leaves students with a charge: “You shouldn’t be on the front lines. People like me should be. But since you are, I have your back.”
And, of course, in true Ari fashion, the interview ends with a smile and a swing, literally. “I believe Jews are better athletes than we get credit for,” he argues, recounting how Marlins’ first baseman Matt Vierling hit a home run mid-fireside chat, right as Ari wished for one.
Ari’s story is more than just a personal journey, it’s a reminder that Jewish pride, values, and resilience are timeless and essential.
The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed herein are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy, position, thoughts, or opinions of Our CampUs United (“OCU”), its affiliates, or any other individuals or entities associated with OCU.
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theocuchronicle.substack.com
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