Lives Well Lived

EDITH EGER: from trauma to triumph

Jan 16, 2025

In this insightful conversation, Edith Eger, a Holocaust survivor and psychologist, recounts her harrowing experiences in Auschwitz and her transformative journey toward healing through forgiveness. Joined by her grandson, Jordan Ingle, they discuss how Viktor Frankl's philosophies influenced Eger's approach to trauma. They explore the therapeutic power of connection, the importance of purpose in life, and the deep emotional insights gained from adversity. Their heartwarming exchange also touches on family bonds and the cultural significance of their Hungarian roots.

44:49

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Episode guests

Jordan Ingle

Edith Eva Eger

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Episode notes

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Quick takeaways

Edith Eger illustrates how creativity and art can serve as powerful forms of resistance and connection, even in the darkest moments of suffering.

Through her journey of healing and forgiveness, Eger emphasizes that overcoming trauma is a gradual process enriched by personal perspective and living with purpose.

Deep dives

The Power of Art Amidst Horror

During her time at Auschwitz, Edith Egger's experience with art illustrated its remarkable capacity to uplift the human spirit even under the direst circumstances. When approached by Dr. Mengele and asked to dance, she put aside her hunger and fear, turning her performance into a moment of joy and connection, which ultimately allowed her to share the meager bread he provided with fellow prisoners. This act of kindness, sparked by a moment of art, demonstrated how creativity can serve as a form of resistance, offering a temporary escape and a sense of humanity. Despite the horror surrounding her, Edith's dance became a symbol of resilience and the will to survive.

Intro

2min

Resilience Amid Darkness

13min

Therapeutic Connections: Evolving Approaches

6min

The Power of Purpose

3min

The Transformative Power of Forgiveness

2min

A Culinary Exchange: Goulash and Heritage

2min

Reflections on Family and Character

2min

Generational Wisdom and Legacy

16min

Holocaust survivor Edith Eger shares her emotional journey of surviving Auschwitz, her encounter with Josef Mengele, and how she became known as the 'Ballerina of Auschwitz.' Edith highlights the slow, evolving process of coming to terms with her past, influenced by Viktor Frankl's work, and how she uses her traumatic experiences to help others as a psychologist, transforming trauma into a source of strength, healing, and forgiveness.

Learn more about Edith Eger!

Read Edith's books! The Choice (Memoir) The Gift The Ballerina of Auschwitz

Make Edith's Hungarian Szekely Goulash!

Keep up to date with Peter!

Website: www.petersinger.info

Substack: https://boldreasoningwithpetersinger.substack.com/

YouTube: www.youtube.com/@peter_singer

Keep up to date with Kasia!

https://www.facebook.com/katarzyna.delazariradek

Executive Producer: Rachel Barrett

Thanks to our volunteer researchers Hendrik Dahlmeier and Mihika Chechi

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