Oleh Spotlight: Sruli Fruchter Brings Thoughtful Jewish Conversation to the Heart of Jerusalem

Sruli Fruchter’s story reflects a deep connection to Judaism, Zionism, and a mission to foster thoughtful, future-focused conversations for the Jewish people.

Raised in Washington Heights and the Five Towns as one of eight children in a Modern Orthodox family, Sruli’s upbringing shaped his values and rooted him in Jewish tradition. After studying international affairs and spending time learning in Israel, he made the full-time move to Jerusalem, determined to build a life grounded in meaning and impact.

Sruli made aliyah with the support of Nefesh B’Nefesh, in partnership with Israel’s Ministry of Aliyah and Integration, The Jewish Agency for Israel, Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael, and Jewish National Fund-USA. His work now bridges his passion for Jewish learning with his dedication to fostering meaningful dialogue.

Now, as Director of Operations at the 18FORTY Podcast, Sruli helps produce and host thought-provoking conversations with leading Israeli thinkers. One of his most recent initiatives—“18 Questions, 40 Israeli Thinkers”—spotlights a diverse range of voices shaping Israel’s cultural and intellectual landscape.

“As part of my work, I travel across the country to meet and interview some of Israel’s most thoughtful voices,” Sruli explains. “It’s given me a front-row seat to the people helping shape this society. And when you sit down with them in person, you see just how deeply they care.”

He describes his workspaces—often Jerusalem cafés buzzing with hi-tech professionals and creatives—as energizing. “There’s something special about working in these spaces alongside Israelis building the future. It’s inspiring.”

Sruli also reflects on how his relationship to Israel changed once he made aliyah. “Before, my love for Israel felt like an observation,” he says. “But now, everything I do—from where I live to where I work—contributes to the welfare of this country. That sense of responsibility is incredibly meaningful.”

What unites many of Sruli’s conversations—on and off the podcast—is a desire to build connection. “Even though we come from different backgrounds or beliefs, what I’ve seen over and over is that people here—especially olim—share a love and commitment to this place. That’s something really powerful.”

His journey—and the voice he brings to Israel’s vibrant intellectual space—offers a compelling example of how young professionals are enriching Israeli society through creativity, depth, and connection.