hmTv at HMTC Podcasts

Send us a textOn this episode of The Fog of War and Humanity, host Rich Aretelli sits down with Fred Sganga, Executive Director of the Long Island State Veterans Home, for a no-nonsense look at what it really takes to care for our aging heroes. They unpack the decades-long fallout of Agent Orange, reveal how Stony Brook Medicine’s “teaching nursing home” model trains tomorrow’s geriatric experts, and spotlight a groundbreaking medical adult-day program that keeps vets in their own beds each night.You’ll learn how to navigate VA benefits—from the $144.10/day premium to no-cost care at 70%+ service ratings—plus the inside scoop on H.R. 1970, which could finally cover sky-high chemo pills. Fred also shares how virtual-reality therapy is replacing pills and why—believe it or not—this might be the second-happiest place on earth after Disney World. If you’re a caregiver, veteran, or simply care about the future of elder care, this forward-thinking conversation is packed with actionable insights and a dash of humor.Support the show

Send us a textEp 158: The Fog of War and Humanity – Vietnam Veteran Frank D’Aversa Shares a Life at Sea and ServiceJoin host Rich Acritelli for a captivating conversation with Vietnam veteran Frank D’Aversa, who takes us from his childhood fishing near the Whitestone Bridge in Queens to his decades-long Navy career aboard aircraft carriers during pivotal moments like the Cuban Missile Crisis and the Vietnam War. Frank opens up about the realities of life at sea, the tight-knit brotherhood of veterans, and his ongoing dedication to supporting those who served. This episode is a powerful tribute to service, sacrifice, and the enduring spirit of those who’ve faced the fog of war—and humanity.Support the show

Send us a textThe Fog of War and Humanity | Ep 159 Host Rich Acritelli continues his conversation with Vietnam Navy veteran Frank D’Aversa, diving deep into life aboard aircraft carriers during the Cuban Missile Crisis and the Vietnam War. From intense training and relentless flight operations to close calls with combat and the long-lasting impact of Agent Orange, Frank shares vivid stories of duty, camaraderie, and survival on the high seas. Tune in for an honest, raw look at the sacrifices made far from the battlefield and the lasting scars veterans carry long after the war ends. Support the show

Send us a textIn Episode 160 of The Fog of War and Humanity, Rich Acritelli sits down with Vietnam veteran and lifelong advocate Frank D’Aversa for a heartfelt conversation about military service, resilience, and community. Frank shares his journey from Navy mechanic to veteran mentor, his decades-long commitment to the reserves, and his pivotal role in Suffolk County’s Veterans Treatment Court—a program transforming lives by supporting veterans struggling with legal and personal challenges. They discuss the realities of post-war life, the power of mentorship, and the importance of never abandoning a generation of veterans. This episode honors service, brotherhood, and the unbreakable bonds that keep veterans strong and connected.Tune in for inspiring stories of service, sacrifice, and the ongoing mission to help those who served.Support the show

Send us a textHistory Repeats Ep. 157 | Iran, Israel & The Middle East Today Join Liam Carballal and Richard Acritelli on History Repeats as they unpack the complex and high-stakes relationship between Iran and Israel. From the legacy of the Shah and the Iranian Revolution to the modern-day nuclear tensions and proxy conflicts, this episode dives deep into the geopolitical chessboard shaping the Middle East. Explore the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz, covert operations, and the ongoing struggle for regional dominance—plus how history’s patterns keep repeating in one of the world’s most volatile hotspots. Support the show

Send us a textEpisode 155: Raised by Survivors — A Conversation with Shelly Piekny SmolarJoin host Bernie Furshpan on Raised by Survivors as he sits down with dear friend and fellow second-generation survivor Shelly Piekny Smolar. Born in a displaced persons camp and raised in Brooklyn’s tight-knit survivor community, Shelly shares candid memories of growing up in a household shaped by trauma, resilience, and tradition. From tales of bullying and cultural clashes to enduring family customs and the struggle to preserve identity, this heartfelt conversation explores what it means to be raised by Holocaust survivors—and the enduring hope for a more humane future.Tune in for a powerful and personal glimpse into history, family, and the legacy of survival.Support the show

Send us a textIn Episode 156 of Disrupting Hate on HMTV, host Ken Schachter sits down with Eva Rosenstein, founder of the Lilian Wilder Center for Communication Excellence. Eva shares her fascinating journey from the high-tech world to coaching some of the most influential Israeli and American communicators. Together, they explore the power of propaganda as a weapon of war and a tool of population control, the challenges of combating modern hate, and the crucial role of effective communication in today’s complex global landscape. Don’t miss this insightful conversation on how speaking out and strategic communication can disrupt hate and change minds.For more information, visit www.lilyanwilder.com.Support the show

Send us a textIn this deeply moving episode of Raised by Survivors, host Bernie Furshpan sits down with Patti Edelstein to explore her family's incredible journey of survival and resilience. Patti shares the harrowing story of her father’s narrow escape from Nazi Germany in 1941, the challenges her family faced, and how their legacy shapes her life today. Together, they reflect on the importance of preserving history, the rise of antisemitism, and the hope Patti holds for future generations to foster tolerance and understanding. Join us for an inspiring conversation about courage, memory, and the power of never giving up.Support the show

Send us a textEpisode 153: Ordinary Heroes with Bernie Furshpan featuring Deborah LauterIn Episode 153 of Ordinary Heroes, host Dr. Bernie Furshpan sits down with Deborah Lauter, Executive Director of the Olga Lengyel Institute (TOLI), at the Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance Center of Nassau County. Deborah shares insights into TOLI’s remarkable mission—educating educators about Holocaust studies, human rights, and contemporary antisemitism. Together, they discuss the profound impact teacher seminars have in empowering educators across the U.S. and Europe, the importance of combating misinformation through education, and why understanding Jewish life before and after the Holocaust is essential for fostering empathy and tolerance. Join Bernie and Deborah as they explore how education can counter hate, create community, and inspire a generation committed to "Never Again."Listen in for a hopeful and heartfelt conversation about confronting the past to build a more compassionate future.Support the show

Send us a textLegacy Chronicles Ep 152: Carrying the Torch with Linda OrgelIn this powerful episode of Legacy Chronicles, host Zachary Graulich sits down with Linda Orgel, a dedicated second-generation Holocaust survivor and docent at HMTC. Linda shares her family’s harrowing history—from her father’s incredible survival story in Nazi-occupied Poland to the profound impact it has had on her life and her role as a storyteller today.Together, they explore the challenges of growing up with a survivor’s legacy, the moment that inspired Linda to become an advocate against antisemitism, and the importance of keeping history alive for future generations. Linda also opens up about how she weaves her family’s personal story into museum tours to make the Holocaust’s lessons resonate deeply with visitors, especially young people.This episode is a heartfelt testament to the power of memory, resilience, and the responsibility to educate. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about embracing our differences, confronting hate, and carrying the torch l’dor v’dor—from generation to generation.Support the show