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Peace builder, cultural educator, entrepreneur and author. Aziz Abu Sarah is a Palestinian who’s journey from radical seeking revenge to peacemaker seeking reconciliation led him to cofounding MEJDI Tours—harnessing the power of travel to create a more peaceful world. His global conflict resolution work earned him the title of National Geographic Explorer.

Published in The New York Times, The Washington Post and National Geographic, Aziz continues at the forefront of reconciliation efforts in conflict zones. In 2018, he courageously announced his candidacy for Mayor of Jerusalem. His book, Crossing Boundaries: A Traveler’s Guide to World Peace, comes out in July 2020.

Connect with us online as we bring the world to you. Through shared stories and conversations, this program aims to continue connecting our world during these challenging times⁠—allowing us to travel from the comfort of our homes. Hosts Aziz Abu Sarah recognized peace activist and MEJDI Tours co-founder, and Kim Passy Yoseph, Global Operations Director at MEJDI Tours, share exclusive conversations with leading travel experts, peace-building organizations, and civic leaders. Join us as we engage our guest speakers in a conversation, discuss difficult questions, model friendship through respectful dialogue and disagreement, and provide an opportunity to encounter new voices and perspectives.

Support This Project

MEJDI Tours is committed to supporting and strengthening the communities we visit – including local businesses, organizations, families, and individuals. By watching and donating to our Crossing Boundaries: Global Connections and Conversations Livestream, you are helping us do just that. Thank you for your support!

Special Thanks to our Partner:

About our hosts

Aziz Abu Sarah

Kim Passy Yoseph

An Israeli with an expertise in education development, Kim Passy Yoseph, holds a Master’s degree in Immigration and Social Integration. She created her own interactive activity for groups focusing on the complexities within the Jewish population in Israel through the various mass immigration waves coming into the country. She has extensive experience in IDF Training and Commanding Courses, and working with consulting firms and NGOs. Her background enables her to effectively lead Global Operations at MEJDI and she is determined to help make MEJDI’s vision a reality.

ARCHIVES

All episode recordings can be found through our Podcast: https://anchor.fm/mejdi-tours

If you are looking for a specific episode that is not listed below or on our podcast, please email [email protected] for access to the recording.

Access the recording of past events:

EPISODE 49

EXPLORE THE WORLD WITH US

AIRED THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25

On this episode we invited a few of our MEJDI staff members to share their favorite travel destinations and stories! Join us as we wash our eyes with the beauty our world has to offer!

With the start of vaccinations we hope to be able to take you with us to some of these wonderful places soon!”

EPISODE 48

COMMUNITY & ENVIRONMENT

AIRED THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18

On this episode we looked into the Socio-Environment connection. We hosted Britt Basel, the Director and Lead Scientist of Ecothropic. As a scientist, educator, and visual storyteller, we trust Britt is an ideal guest! She shared her passion of “how communities can solve solve drought”, and previous experiences in the field. You can also expect to see her unique point of view through her photography.

EPISODE 47

ISRAELI ELECTIONS 2021

AIRED THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11

On this episode we hosted an amazing group of panelists – Knesset Members, MK Uzi Dayan (Likud Party), MK Ram Ben Barak (Yesh Atid Party) and Strategy Consultant Danny Sherman. We learn why Israel is back for another set of elections, what are the polls showing, is there a predicted change coming and how will the Israeli-Palestinian relationship be affected?

EPISODE 46

PALESTINIAN ELECTIONS 2021

AIRED THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 04

On this episode we discussed the upcoming Palestinian and Israeli Elections. we dove deep into each of the sides, starting with the Palestinian elections. We were joined by local advisors / analysts and activists to discuss the unique timing, the real option of change and the opinion on the street.

EPISODE 45

AFRICA: MAN VS NATURE

AIRED THURSDAY, JANUARY 28

On this episode we “travelled” to Africa! We hosted our friend Andrew Doherty, Manager of Special Interest Travel at Thompson Safaris. After sharing our personal stories and experiences, we discussed conflicts, conservation in relation to the travel industry and the role of community tourism. Oh, and we shared the screen with our favorite travel pictures!.

EPISODE 44

GREECE: PAST TO PRESENT

AIRED THURSDAY, JANUARY 21

On this episode we “travelled” to Greece, commonly described as the first known democracy. We hosted a few of our local friends that took us on a tour from past to present, showed us the sites and shared their own stories. Erin Whaley co-hosted with Kim so you have a chance to meet another one of our amazing colleagues!.

EPISODE 43

OMAN: MORE THAN A DESERT

AIRED THURSDAY, JANUARY 14

On this episode take a virtual vacation with us to Oman. Take a break, put your feet up, and disconnect from your local reality for an hour. We hosted Maggie Rose, a Polish expat and a true expert on Oman. She took us for a tour of the breathtaking desert views, experience the unique culture and share her own experiences.

EPISODE 42

SOCIAL RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL

AIRED THURSDAY, JANUARY 07

We are back with a special episode on the most fascinating travel experiences! Together with our very own Scott Cooper (MEJDI’s co-owner & CEO) and our good friend Harold Goodwin (Responsible Tourism Leader) we discuss on our own personal travel stories, sharing how they’ve affected us and others, including our favorite spots!

EPISODE 41

HOLIDAY SPECIAL

AIRED THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17

On this episode we looked back at the affects of the covid-19 pandemic on our year 2020 as a whole but also focusing specifically on the holiday season. Don’t worry, we kept it JOYOUS and optimistic, the true MEJDI way! We featured a few of our friends, Jewish and Christian to hear their experiences and have them share their favorite holiday stories!

EPISODE 40

ALL ABOUT MOROCCO

AIRED THURSDAY, DECEMBER 10

On this episode we explore the sides of Morocco you didn’t know. We hosted Adina Friedman, a scholar-practitioner in the field of conflict analysis and resolution (George Mason University), Sadik Rddad, an author, editor and Professor of English at Sidi Mohamed ben Abdellah, and Amina El Hajjami, the Director of Projects at the High Atlas Foundation. Each of our guests shared their personal stories and knowledge as we discuss tradition vs. modernity, women empowerment, inter-communal peace-building, Sufism and the unique Amazigh culture and responsible travel in the country.

EPISODE 39

REPUBLIC OF CUBA

AIRED THURSDAY, DECEMBER 3

On this episode we “travelled” to Cuba! We virtually explored this beautiful country – seemingly trapped in the past – but making significant strides toward future advancement with our good friend, Carmen Edelson, an American Cuban travel expert. Check out the episode to learn more about travelling to Cuba.

EPISODE 38

REPUBLIC OF IRAQ

AIRED THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 19

The Conflicts, Diversity and Current Affairs in Iraq

EPISODE 37

INREDIBLE INDIA

AIRED THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 5

The Beauty, Diversity, and Conflicts of India

EPISODE 36

ECOPEACE IN THE MIDDLE EAST: WILL THE MIDDLE EAST BE INHABITABLE IN 2100?

AIRED THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 5

A Discussion on Climate Change, Water Security and National Security for Jordan, Palestine, and Israel

EPISODE 35

CURRENT AFFAIRS: THE UNITED STATES PRESIDENTIAL ELECTIONS

AIRED THURSDAY, OCTOBER 29

How a Divided Nation can Move Forward Despite Differences.

EPISODE 34

CURRENT AFFAIRS: THE ARMENIAN / AZERBAIJANI CONFLICT

AIRED THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22

On this episode, we discuss the recent violence has flared up again over a longstanding conflict between the two countries.

EPISODE 33

CURRENT AFFAIRS: THE ISRAELI PROTESTS

AIRED THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15

On this episode we discuss the current wave of protests in Israel.

EPISODE 32

PEOPLE ARE PEOPLE (PART 3)

AIRED THURSDAY, OCTOBER 8

Peacebuilding in the Middle East: From Minority Group to a Movement

EPISODE 31

PEOPLE ARE PEOPLE (PART 2)

AIRED THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1

FROM THE SECOND EXODUS TO THE BLACK PANTHERS IN ISRAEL

EPISODE 30

PEOPLE ARE PEOPLE (PART 1)

AIRED THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24

CHRISTIAN MINORITIES IN THE MIDDLE EAST

EPISODE 29

PEOPLE ARE PEOPLE

AIRED THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 17

A SERIES ON THE DIVERSE ETHNIC AND RELIGIOUS POPULATIONS

EPISODE 28

WE CAN WORK IT OUT

AIRED THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 10

A DISCUSSION ON THE UAE/ISRAEL DEAL

EPISODE 27

SOAK UP THE SUN

AIRED THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 3

COSTA RICA: THE STORY OF A PEACEFUL NATION AND THEIR SUCCESSFUL RESPONSE TO THE GLOBAL PANDEMIC

EPISODE 26

RISE UP

AIRED THURSDAY, AUGUST 27

Lebanon relief efforts following the Beirut explosion and what the world can do to help.

EPISODE 25

BETTER DAYS

AIRED THURSDAY, AUGUST 20

On this episode we speak with US tourism industry experts on what changes are being made to keep travelers safe, explore data trends on the industry’s rebound, and discuss what the future of travel looks like in a post-coronavirus world.

EPISODE 24

FREE YOUR MIND

AIRED THURSDAY, AUGUST 13

On this episode we spoke with mindfulness and wellness experts davidji and Shelly Tygielski on finding peace of mind during times of crisis.

EPISODE 23

TILL WE GET THE HEALING DONE

AIRED THURSDAY, AUGUST 6

On this episode we will meet with the Founder and Executive Director of Healing Across the Divides, Norbert Goldfield, along with HATD Staff and Grantees. HATD is the only non-profit that provides funding and technical advice on health to both Palestinian and Israeli communities; and the only one that fosters cooperation between groups – a critical difference in these challenging times.

EPISODE 22

COUNT ON ME (PART 2)

AIRED THURSDAY, JULY 30

This episode continues a conversation started in episode 15. TM Garret a reformed white supremacist along with Dr. Todd Allen, joined us to discuss the racial conflict in the United States and what we we can do to work towards reconciliation.

EPISODE 21

I’M STILL STANDING

AIRED THURSDAY, JULY 23

On this episode, we speak with local Palestinian and Israeli business leaders about the effect of COVID-19 on the economy, community, and what steps they are taking to minimize the impact and ensure a speedy recovery.

EPISODE 20

I WALK THE LINE (Interview with Aziz Abu Sarah)

AIRED THURSDAY, JULY 16

An exclusive interview with Aziz Abu Sarah, co-founder of MEJDI Tours, recognized peace builder, cultural educator, travel innovator, and speaker. He is joined by Yuval Ben Ami – author, journalist, cultural critic, travel expert, and friend – to discuss his newly released book, his plans for peace-building during a pandemic, and what we can learn from the personal transformation necessary to foster a more peaceful world.

EPISODE 19

THE HASHEMITE KINGDOM OF JORDAN

AIRED THURSDAY, JULY 9

The country of Jordan has been repeatedly referred to as an “oasis of stability” in a turbulent region. Since the 1950’s, Jordan has accepted refugees from multiple neighboring countries in conflict including Palestinians, Syrians, and Iraqi Christians. While landmarks like Petra and Wadi Rum bring most of the travelers to Jordan – there is so much more explore. During this week’s livestream we will meet with some of our Jordanian friends to discuss the hidden gems of the country, their successful COVID recovery efforts and we will meet with Syrian refugee to learn more about their experience and hopes for the future.

EPISODE 18

WHAT’S GOING ON?

AIRED THURSDAY, JULY 2

During this special livestream, we will take a deep dive into the highly controversial annexation of the West Bank/Palestine by Israel. The plan, set to be enforced beginning July 1, does not seem to be an effort to resolve the conflict between the two peoples nor has it been a successful attempt to bring Palestinian leaders to the table to discuss the supposed “Peace Plan.” Instead, it is being met with threats of sanctions, violence, and calls for global opposition to what is predicted to be a catastrophic human rights violation and impending apartheid state for Israel. During our discussion with local experts, we will review details of the plan, who it affects, and how it will impact the local communities.

EPISODE 17

YOU’VE GOT A FRIEND IN ME

AIRED THURSDAY, JUNE 25TH

Creativity for Peace trains young Israeli and Palestinian women to partner as leaders by transforming anger and prejudice to mutual respect, facilitating an understanding of the other, and inspiring action to promote equality and peace. Based in Santa Fe, New Mexico since 2003, and operating in the USA, Palestine, and Israel, they use dialogue and art to introduce the story of the other side and begin the compassion and healing necessary for reconciliation. On this episode we will meet with the Executive Director at Creativity for Peace, Tarrie Burnett, along with a few of their young leaders to discuss the program, their mission, and the impact they have had in the region.

EPISODE 16

ON THE ROAD AGAIN

AIRED THURSDAY, JUNE 18TH

What does travel have to do with community building and how can it be used to tackle racism, inequality and injustice? Join us next week as we discuss this and more with our guest, Kelley Louise, Founder and Executive Director of Impact Travel Alliance. With one in ten jobs globally in the travel and hospitality industries, we will explore the cultural impact of the current travel bans and ways we can continue to support local communities.

EPISODE 15

COUNT ON ME

AIRED THURSDAY, JUNE 11TH

This episode will features two incredible individuals attempting reconciliation in the face of injustice. Daryl Davis, an African American blues musician turned peace activist who has been meeting with (and reforming) Ku Klux Klan members since the 80’s and Arno Michaelis, a reformed white supremacist who has transformed his earlier hatred into a passion for coexistence. His peace-building work draws on his own journey to help protect young Americans from hateful ideologies. We discuss their paths to peace, current and past activism work, and what we as individuals can do to bring about reconciliation.

EPISODE 14

ABSOLUTE REALITY

AIRED THURSDAY, JUNE 4TH

War journalist, Emmy award winner, former Executive VP of National Geographic Television and Senior VP/GM of Smithsonian Media – Mark Bauman has an extensive background and decades of experience in historic conservation, global exploration, and digital preservation. Now he is leading the charge to democratize exploration by creating immersive cross-platform experiences from the most iconic cultural sites and wildlife landscapes on the planet, creating a high end library of 3D experiences. During our episode we’ll talk about Bauman’s experience as a war journalist, his work on historic conservation and how he is using technology to capture, share and preserve the wonders of the world.

EPISODE 13

THE LUCK OF THE IRISH

AIRED THURSDAY, MAY 28TH

An in-depth look at the Troubles of Northern Ireland, the violent ethno-nationalist conflict of the late 20th century. Learn about neighborhood divisions in Belfast and efforts to bridge the divide and cultivate a more peaceful future. Explore the country’s Catholic and Protestant heritages, literary legacies, and hear personal memoirs of political turmoil. Examine conflicting national narratives and confront contemporary issues, while celebrating the culture and fortitude of the Irish people.

EPISODE 12

WHAT A WONDERFUL WORLD

AIRED THURSDAY, MAY 22ND

This episode features Samantha Bray of the Center for Responsible Travel (CREST), discussing the organization’s research on the future of responsible tourism, sharing her experiences working with destination communities around the world.

EPISODE 11

THE WORLD AT LARGE

AIRED THURSDAY, MAY 14TH

In recent years, more women than ever are traveling – thanks, in large part, to shifting societal expectations surrounding gender roles, as well as increased financial freedom. Understanding that not everyone has the same travel privileges (whether due to gender, race, nationality, class, language or sexual orientation) is an important consideration when planning any journey and an integral part of the discussion on socially responsible travel.

EPISODE 10

CHANGES

AIRED THURSDAY, MAY 7TH

System Ali was born in Ajami neighborhood in Jaffa as a result of the struggle for housing rights in the city. We’ll hear how the band has grown to become a diverse and exceptional cultural engine to community building and social change, learn about their entry to tourism and get a taste of their music.

EPISODE 9

LEAN ON ME

AIRED THURSDAY, APRIL 30TH

Yigal and Arab are bereaved brothers, both having lost a sister due to the violent conflict. Their loss and pain led them to fight for justice and reconciliation – together. We’ll hear about their unlikely friendship, their own transformation, and the work of The Parents Circle – Families Forum.

EPISODE 8

JERUSALEM OF GOLD

AIRED THURSDAY, APRIL 23RD

Your MEJDI Dual Narrative guides, Morgie (Israeli) and Ramzi (Palestinian), will provide an immersive virtual touring experience of the history, culture, and complex reality of the Holy Land.

EPISODE 7

HEAL THE WORLD

AIRED MONDAY, APRIL 20TH

Hands of Peace is a non-profit organization that empowers young Israelis, Palestinians, and Americans to raise their voices as leaders of change. We will discuss their efforts and what we can do to help give Hands of Peace a chance.

EPISODE 6

COLOMBIA TIERRA QUERIDA

AIRED THURSDAY, APRIL 16TH

Colombia is a beautiful country emerging from a challenging past. Learn from local leaders about its recent transformation, the peace agreement with the FARC, bio diversity, and the projects that are helping change Colombia for future generations.

EPISODE 5

THE GOOD SAMARITAN

AIRED MONDAY APRIL 13TH

Less than a 1000 Samaritans still live in Israel and Palestine. But they continue to live their ancestors traditions. We will talk with Abood Cohen about the Samaritan community, their Passover celebration, and how they engage in the tourism industry.

EPISODE 4

BRIDGE OVER TROUBLED WATERS

AIRED THURSDAY, APRIL 9TH

Photojournalists Bosnian, Ziyah Gafić and Serbian, Marko Drobnjakovic will discuss their photojournalism work in the Balkans, the multiple narratives of the region, and the role of photography in storytelling.

EPISODE 3

THE PLACE UNKNOWN

AIRED MONDAY, APRIL 6TH

Discover hidden treasure and little known sites in Israel and Palestine with the expertise of Steve Rubin, adventure and culture guide.

EPISODE 2

EPISODE 2 GIVE PEACE A CHANCE

AIRED THURSDAY APRIL 2ND

A conversation with Dr. Rev. Mae Elise Cannon about constructive conflict, peace, advocacy, and more