

hmTv at HMTC Podcasts
HMTC
hmTv is a podcast platform dedicated to exploring the humanity in all of us through impactful stories and discussions. Executive Producer Bernie Furshpan has developed a state-of-the-art podcast studio within the Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance Center, creating a dynamic platform for dialogue. Hosting more than 20 series and their respective hosts, the studio explores a wide range of subjects—from Holocaust and tolerance education to pressing contemporary issues and matters of humanity.
Episodes
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Aug 29, 2025 • 24min
Ep 221: Humanity in the Arts with Ranelle Wolf and guest Esther Muller on hmTv
Send us a textEpisode 221 – Humanity in the Arts with Ranelle Wolf and Guest Esther MullerIn this inspiring episode of Humanity in the Arts, host Ranelle Wolf sits down with visionary real estate leader and educator Esther Muller, affectionately known as “Queen Esther.” The daughter of Holocaust survivors, Esther shares how her family’s legacy of resilience and creativity shaped her entrepreneurial spirit, her billion-dollar real estate career, and her mission to teach ethics, human rights, and moral courage through education.Together, Ranelle and Esther explore the idea of real estate as sacred space—not just transactions, but places of memory, healing, and human dignity. From her parents’ survival in Auschwitz and Bergen-Belsen, to her own journey of building and giving back, Esther shows how creativity, Torah values, and the strength of the divine feminine can transform business into a force for humanity.Listeners will come away inspired by Esther’s story of survival, her commitment to ethical leadership, and her passion for empowering the next generation to succeed with courage, compassion, and vision.Support the show

Aug 27, 2025 • 24min
Ep 220: Ordinary Heroes with Bernie Furshpan and guest Michael Li on hmTv
Send us a textEp. 220: Ordinary Heroes – Michael Li: A Chessboard Against HateIn this inspiring episode of Ordinary Heroes, host Bernie Furshpan sits down with teenage activist and chess prodigy Michael Li, the powerhouse behind Checkmate Hate. At just 15, Michael has already helped raise thousands for the Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance Center and is using chess as an unlikely—but powerful—tool to fight hate, build empathy, and educate his peers.From discussing the resilience of Shanghai's Jewish refugees to navigating social media misinformation and the ethics of AI, Michael shares thoughtful insights that defy his age. He credits his parents, his Chinese-American heritage, and a deep love of history and logic for shaping his worldview—and his mission.Michael’s story proves that leadership doesn’t wait for adulthood. It starts with a pawn, a purpose, and the courage to move forward.Tune in for a conversation filled with wisdom, hope, and humanity from one of Long Island’s youngest changemakers.Support the show

Aug 27, 2025 • 22min
Ep 219: Ordinary Heroes with Bernie Furshpan and guest, Modi on hmTv
Send us a textEp 219: Ordinary Heroes with Bernie Furshpan and guest Modi on hmTv:In this powerful and heartfelt episode of Ordinary Heroes on hmTv, host Bernie Furshpan sits down with internationally acclaimed comedian Modi (Rosenfeld) to explore the healing power of humor in the face of adversity.Modi shares his journey from investment banking to the comedy stage, reflecting on how the rise of antisemitism and the events of October 7th have reshaped both his material and his mission. From closing shows with Hatikvah to weaving Holocaust memory into his act, Modi reveals how laughter can unite communities, offer respite from pain, and even educate audiences without them realizing it.Together, Bernie and Modi discuss resilience, Jewish identity, and what Modi calls “Mashiach energy”—the collective joy and relief of laughing together in difficult times. Listeners will gain insight into the responsibility and calling behind comedy, the evolution of Jewish humor, and the universal hope for light in dark times.Tune in for an extraordinary conversation that proves comedy is more than entertainment—it’s a form of courage, connection, and hope.Support the show

Aug 27, 2025 • 18min
Ep 218: Ordinary Heroes with Bernie Furshpan and guest Elie Honig on hmTv
Send us a textOrdinary Heroes – Episode 218 with Bernie Furshpan and guest Elie HonigIn this compelling episode of Ordinary Heroes on hmTv, host Bernie Furshpan sits down with Elie Honig—former federal prosecutor, CNN senior legal analyst, bestselling author, and grandson of Holocaust survivors—for an eye-opening conversation about justice, power, and resilience.Honig shares insights from his years prosecuting mob bosses in the Southern District of New York, reflects on the proud and complex tradition of the “sovereign district,” and unpacks the challenges of protecting prosecutorial independence in an era of political pressure. He discusses his bestselling books Hatchet Man and Untouchable, his upcoming work on the history of the DOJ’s investigations of U.S. presidents, and his mission to explain complex legal issues to the public with clarity and fairness.The dialogue goes deeper as Honig connects his professional life to his personal heritage, sharing powerful stories about his grandparents’ survival of the Holocaust and the legacy of resilience he carries forward. Together, Bernie and Elie explore the importance of integrity in public service, lessons for young lawyers, and why Holocaust remembrance is vital for safeguarding democracy today.This episode blends history, law, and personal legacy into a conversation that inspires courage, sharpens perspective, and reminds us that “ordinary heroes” can change the course of communities and nations.Support the show

Aug 25, 2025 • 26min
Ep 217: Raised by Survivors with Bernie Furshpan and guest Alan Locher on hmTv
Send us a textEp 217 – Raised by Survivors with Alan LocherIn this powerful episode of Raised by Survivors on hmTv, host Bernie Furshpan sits down with Alan Locher, the son of two Holocaust survivors, to share a deeply personal and inspiring story of resilience, memory, and activism.Alan reflects on his parents’ harrowing survival stories—his mother hidden by a courageous farm family who risked eleven lives to save her, and his father navigating forests, the underground, and a fateful reunion that defied the odds. Together, Bernie and Alan explore what it means to be raised by survivors, the lasting effects of trauma, and the extraordinary courage of upstanders who risked everything for others.The conversation also dives into Alan’s journey—from working in television and film publicity to creating The Locher Room podcast, where he brings people together for meaningful conversations about antisemitism, racism, and social change on Conversations with Alan.At its heart, this episode is a reminder of the importance of speaking out, listening, and carrying forward the legacy of those who endured humanity’s darkest chapter.Support the show

Aug 25, 2025 • 27min
Ep 216: Echoes of the Past with Zachary Graulich and guest Donna Rosenblum on hmTv
Send us a textEp 216: Echoes of the Past with Zachary Graulich and Donna RosenblumIn this episode of Echoes of the Past on hmTv, Assistant Director of Education Zachary Graulich and Director of Education Donna Rosenblum examine one of the most infamous propaganda tools of Nazi Germany: the tabloid Der Stürmer. Together, they unpack its origins under Julius Streicher, its grotesque caricatures and headlines, and the staggering reach that shaped public opinion against Jews across Europe.The conversation draws sharp parallels to modern misinformation and highlights how lies, stereotypes, and hate-filled imagery fueled incitement to genocide—leading to Streicher’s conviction at the Nuremberg Trials. Through examining this 1937 edition and its disturbing messages, Zachary and Donna remind us why it’s essential to recognize propaganda for what it is and confront its echoes in today’s world.Listeners are invited to visit the Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance Center of Nassau County to see a replica of this newspaper on display and reflect on the ongoing need for vigilance against hate.Support the show

Aug 22, 2025 • 14min
Ep 214: Humanity in the Arts with Ranelle Wolf and guest Janet Lust Ganes P2 on hmTv
Send us a textHumanity in the Arts - Episode 214: Healing Through Art (Part 2)Join host Ranelle Wolf for the second part of her captivating conversation with artist Janet Lust Ganes. In this episode, they delve deeper into the healing power of art and its role in confronting difficult histories. Janet shares her personal creative process, revealing how she uses "text portraits" to honor the legacies of Holocaust survivors, including her own parents.Discover the powerful story of how Janet's art brought to life the harrowing survival of Ethel Bower Catz and learn how a student's question about using text in a magazine collage inspired Janet's unique artistic style. The discussion highlights the reciprocal relationship between teaching and learning, emphasizing how inspiration flows in both directions.Janet and Ranelle also discuss the role of art in healing the world (tikun olam). They encourage listeners to find an issue they are passionate about and "adopt" it, using art as a vehicle for purpose and meaning. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of art, history, and human resilience.Support the show

Aug 22, 2025 • 29min
Ep 215: Many Voices One Community with Gaitley Stevenson-Mathews and guest Frank Camarano on hmTv
Send us a textEpisode 215 – Building Community Through Commerce: A Conversation with Frank CamaranoIn this uplifting episode of Many Voices, One Community, host Gaitley Stevenson-Mathews sits down with longtime friend and community leader Frank Camarano, President of the Nassau Council of Chambers of Commerce. Together, they explore how local commerce is more than just business—it’s a force for unity, equity, and impact across Long Island.From chamber breakfasts that bring together hundreds of voices, to small business grants and support for food insecurity and veterans, Frank shares how chambers of commerce aren’t just economic engines—they’re the heartbeat of the neighborhoods they serve. Hear about Glen Cove’s Deep Roots Farmers Market, the Council’s work with VetDogs, and how chambers are stepping up in times of need—COVID included.Frank also reflects on his leadership journey, the joy he finds in serving others, and the importance of not taking yourself too seriously (yes, Halloween costumes are discussed!).Whether you’re a small business owner, a civic leader, or a passionate neighbor looking to make a difference, this conversation reminds us: when we lift each other up, we all rise.Support the show

Aug 22, 2025 • 25min
Ep 212: Humanity in the Arts with Ranelle Wolf and guest Rabbi Josh Franklin P2 on hmTv
Send us a textPodcast Description: Episode 212 - Humanity in the Arts with Ranelle Wolf and Rabbi Josh Franklin (Part 2)In this engaging second part of the conversation, host Ranelle Wolf continues her dialogue with Rabbi Josh Franklin from the Jewish Center of the Hamptons. Together, they delve into the creative process, exploring how ancient teachings can come alive for modern audiences.Rabbi Franklin shares his unique approach to preparing Torah portions, drawing parallels between creativity and the wilderness—midbar—a space where inspiration flourishes. They discuss the importance of finding one's voice, the relationship between the soul and creativity, and how crises can lead to new beginnings.Listeners will gain insights into the healing power of creativity, the significance of embracing vulnerability, and the potential for beauty that emerges from brokenness. Join Ranelle and Rabbi Franklin for a thought-provoking episode that encourages everyone to discover their inner spark and contribute their unique gifts to the world. Tune in and get inspired!Support the show

Aug 22, 2025 • 25min
Ep 213: Humanity in the Arts with Ranelle Wolf and guest Janet Lust Ganes P1 on hmTv
Send us a textEpisode 213: Humanity in the Arts with Ranelle Wolf and guest Janet Lust Ganes (Part 1)In this powerful episode of Humanity in the Arts on hmTv, host Ranelle Wolf sits down with artist and educator Janet Lust Ganes to explore the intersection of creativity, remembrance, and healing. Janet shares the deeply personal story behind her exhibition Lest We Forget: Stories of Hope, Resistance, and Survival, a body of work inspired by her mother’s survival of the Holocaust and her later-life journey as a self-taught sculptor.Together, they reflect on how art can be a vessel for memory, a means of processing trauma, and a bridge between generations. Janet opens up about the influence of her mother’s sculptures, her own evolution as a figurative artist, and the importance of teaching students to engage creatively with history through programs like Adopt a Survivor.This conversation reminds us that creativity is not only a form of self-expression but also a path to empathy, resilience, and human connection.Support the show


