Finding Funny in Hard Times | Yochay Sponder on Israeli Humor & Resilience | Sababoosh

What role does comedy play in a society under constant pressure? Can laughter actually help people heal? In this episode of Sababoosh, I sit down with Israeli stand-up comedian Yochay Sponder to talk about the unique role comedy plays in Israeli life, and how humor helps people process pain, bridge differences, and find connection even in the hardest moments. We get into the relationship between trauma and laughter, the responsibility that comes with being a comedian, the universal language of humor, and why listening to what makes a society laugh might be one of the most honest ways to understand it. Yochay also shares what makes Israeli audiences different from the crowds he's performed for around the world. Whether you're a fan of stand-up or just curious about Israeli culture, this is a thoughtful, surprisingly moving conversation about the healing power of comedy. In this episode, we discuss: -Why humor is essential during times of crisis -How comedy helps people process trauma and build resilience -What makes Israeli comedy different -How comedians read a room and adapt to different audiences -Why laughter creates connection across cultures -Comedy and AI Guest: Yochay Sponder, one of Israel's leading stand-up comedians, known internationally for his sharp observations, quick wit, and ability to find humor in even the most complex realities. 🎧 Listen to more episodes of Sababoosh on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, or visit www.sababoosh.com 🔔 Subscribe for new episodes exploring Israeli culture through music, TV, comedy, and more #Sababoosh #IsraeliCulture #StandUpComedy #YochaySponder #JewishPodcast