204: Nova tribute to Jake: Parents Lisa and Michael Marlowe

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My guests today are Michael and Lisa Marlowe, the parents of Jake Marlowe, who was murdered at the Nova Music Festival on October 7, 2023.

Playing it back brings tears to my eyes as a parent.

Jake was a 26-year-old British-Israeli musician and security guard. Known to many as the bassist for the hardcore band Desolated, he had toured the world before building a life in Israel.

On the morning Hamas terrorists attacked the festival, Jake was working as part of the security team. Witness accounts say he spent his final moments helping others escape to safety. He died as he lived — looking after other people.

When I met Michael and Lisa, they had already spent hours recounting the worst day of their lives to journalists from around the world. Michael had just completed an especially emotional interview and needed a moment to compose himself. In the brief time we had together, I was able to offer my condolences and a hug before speaking with Lisa, who courageously continued the conversation.

It takes extraordinary strength to relive such loss in public. I hope these conversations offer something meaningful — a chance to honour Jake’s memory, to ensure his story is heard, and perhaps, in some small way, to contribute to the tribute he deserves.

Of course, no interview can lessen the pain of losing a son. Some losses are simply carried forever.

You’ll first hear a short conversation with Michael Marlowe, followed by my fuller interview with Lisa.

Baruch Dayan HaEmet. May the memory of Jake Marlowe be a blessing.

Find the rest of Jonny's podcasts and writings on ⁠Substack⁠.

Help support Jonny with a monthly chai latte at ⁠buy me a coffee.

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