hmTv at HMTC Podcasts

Send us a textRaised by Survivors: “Rabbi Anchelle Perl”How do you turn a family’s trauma into a lifetime of light? In this moving conversation, host Bernie Furshpan sits down with Rabbi Anchelle Perl, whose father survived Auschwitz and slave-labor camps before rebuilding his life—and his faith—in freedom. Rabbi Perl recounts that journey, the quiet heroism of keeping kosher in a death camp, and the steadfast refusal to hate that defined his childhood home.Now the spiritual leader of Chabad of Mineola, founder of Long Island’s Good Deed Awards for teens, and a newly appointed Nassau County Human Rights Commissioner, Rabbi Perl explains how those early lessons fuel his mission to spotlight kindness, confront antisemitism through education, and help every person recognize the spark of holiness within.Listen in for a testament to resilience, a blueprint for community leadership, and a reminder that the most powerful answer to darkness is a life devoted to bringing others hope.Support the show

Send us a textEpisode 82: "A Life of Service, Faith, and Resilience" Ordinary Heroes on hmTv at the Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance CenterIn this inspiring and heartfelt episode of Ordinary Heroes, host Bernie Furshpan welcomes a longtime friend and extraordinary community leader, Rabbi Ron Csilag. Their conversation explores Ron’s remarkable journey — from chiropractor to rabbi, from volunteer at Ground Zero to advocate for Israeli hostages, and from the son of a Holocaust refugee to a voice for resilience, justice, and hope.Rabbi Ron shares the profound moments that shaped his life, including his early connection to Israel during Operation Solomon, his volunteer work adjusting rescue workers at Ground Zero after 9/11, and his ongoing mission to fight antisemitism and injustice today. With wisdom and humility, he recounts how his upbringing and experiences have fueled a lifelong commitment to serving others.The discussion dives into the challenges facing Jewish students on college campuses, the meaning of “Never Again” in today’s world, and the importance of speaking out boldly against hatred while maintaining optimism and hope. Rabbi Ron also reflects on the dangers of complacency, the blessings and responsibilities of living in America, and the urgent need for unity and mutual respect across a divided society.Blending humor, deep insight, and personal stories, this episode reminds us that true heroism lies not in grand gestures, but in the everyday acts of standing up, speaking out, and giving back.Join us for a powerful conversation about legacy, leadership, and the enduring impact one individual can make.Support the show

Send us a textEpisode 81 – Raised by Survivors with Frieda Hoffman On this heartfelt episode of Raised by Survivors, host Bernie Furshpan sits down with Frieda Hoffman, the daughter of Holocaust survivors, to reflect on growing up in a home shaped by unimaginable resilience. Together, they share powerful memories of their parents, the lessons they learned, and the unspoken bond among second-generation survivors. From the strength found in small communities like Seagate, Brooklyn, to the enduring mission of carrying forward survivor stories, Bernie and Frieda offer wisdom, humor, and profound insight into honoring the past while inspiring the future. This conversation is a moving reminder of the importance of education, empathy, and preserving history for generations to come. Support the show

Send us a textEpisode 80: Habits of a Whole Heart with Rabbi Shalom Paltiel (Part 3) Hosted by Arnie Herz on hmTvIn this powerful third installment of Habits of a Whole Heart, host Arnie Herz and Rabbi Shalom Paltiel dive into the practical side of spirituality—examining how core Jewish habits and mitzvot, like observing Shabbat and giving tzedakah, serve as tools for inner liberation and wholeness.Arnie shares his personal journey from a secular upbringing and a successful legal career to embracing a life rooted in Jewish practice and purpose. What begins as a conversation about routine becomes a profound exploration of how spiritual habits can transform everyday life, enhance relationships, deepen self-awareness, and even elevate professional success.The episode also highlights the integration of physical and spiritual experiences in Judaism—contrasting and comparing them to Eastern traditions—and emphasizes the power of intentional living in today’s hyper-connected world. Through moving stories and deep reflections, Rabbi Paltiel and Arnie illuminate the path toward not just a full life, but a whole one.Tune in for wisdom, warmth, and inspiration—and discover how ancient habits can spark modern transformation.Support the show

Send us a textEpisode 79: Habits of a Whole Heart with Rabbi Shalom Paltiel (Part 2)In this deeply insightful continuation of Habits of a Whole Heart on hmTv, host Arnie Herz welcomes back Rabbi Shalom Paltiel, chief rabbi of Chabad of Port Washington, for Part 2 of their powerful conversation on Judaism, ego, and the transformative power of spiritual habits.Together, they explore why it’s often easier to show compassion to animals than to fellow humans, how Torah wisdom anticipates our deepest emotional challenges, and why the Tenth Commandment—"Thou shalt not covet"—holds the key to inner peace. Rabbi Paltiel shares timeless teachings from Pirkei Avot, the Talmud, and Kabbalah, emphasizing the impact of discipline, consistency, and behavior on the human soul.With relatable humor, profound clarity, and practical takeaways, this episode unpacks the difference between freedom and true liberation, and shows how habitual mitzvot can lead us from ego-driven lives to heart-centered, God-connected living.Tune in for a soul-stirring dialogue that bridges ancient Jewish wisdom with modern psychological insights—and learn how to build habits that align your daily actions with the essence of your highest self.Subscribe and share to keep the conversation growing.Support the show

Send us a textEpisode 78: Habits of a Whole Heart – Part 1 with Rabbi Shalom Paltiel hmTv | Hosted by Arnie HerzIn this deeply enriching episode of Habits of a Whole Heart, Arnie Herz sits down with Rabbi Shalom Paltiel, head of Chabad of Port Washington and Arnie’s longtime spiritual guide and friend. Together, they explore what it means to live with a “whole heart” through the lens of Jewish wisdom, Kabbalah, and Chassidic philosophy.From the dual nature of the human soul to the concept of divine oneness, Rabbi Paltiel offers profound insights into integrating both our higher and lower selves, cultivating spiritual awareness, and living with intention and compassion. They discuss the relevance of Torah teachings for all humanity, the deeper reality beneath our perceived separateness, and how small habits can align us with the sacred in everyday life.Whether you're curious about spirituality, seeking more meaning, or looking to deepen your personal growth, this conversation offers a powerful reminder: wholeness begins when we realize we’re already part of something whole.Topics Covered:What it means to love God with “both hearts”The divine and animal soul in ChassidusHow individuality and unity coexistThe true nature of God beyond anthropomorphismThe universal relevance of Torah wisdomKindness and morality as expressions of divine connectionBe sure to subscribe and tune in for Part 2 as Arnie and Rabbi Paltiel continue this inspiring journey into the heart of spiritual practice.Support the show

Send us a textEpisode 77 – The Upstander Responsibility On this powerful episode of The Upstander Responsibility on hmTv, co-hosts Molly Deblinger and Ella Ben-Hamo, recipients of the Claire Friedlander Upstander Award, share their personal journeys of courage, advocacy, and identity. From standing up to school administrations and challenging misinformation, to creating safe spaces and confronting antisemitism head-on, Molly and Ella explore what it truly means to be an upstander in today’s world.They open up about the impact of October 7th, the resilience of the Jewish community, and the importance of education and unity in the face of hate. This conversation is both eye-opening and empowering, highlighting the responsibility of young leaders to spark change, uplift others, and use their voices, even when it’s hard.Tune in to hear how passion turns into action, and why every voice—especially yours—matters.  #BeAnUpstander #YouthVoices #JewishPride #ClaireFriedlanderAward #hmTv #HolocaustEducation #CombatHate #InspireHopeSupport the show

Send us a textEpisode 75: The Fog of War and Humanity with Richard Acritelli and guest Lt. Colonel Marty Vieira (Part 1)In this compelling first installment of a two-part conversation, host Richard Acritelli sits down with Lieutenant Colonel Marty Vieira, a decorated combat rescue officer from the 106th Rescue Wing of the New York Air National Guard. From his humble beginnings in Rocky Point, Long Island, to a distinguished military career marked by resilience, discipline, and service, Lt. Col. Vieira shares the remarkable journey that shaped his life.Listeners will hear how a high school lifeguard job sparked his passion for saving lives, how teaching middle school science informed his leadership style, and how the tragic events of 9/11 ignited his calling to serve in uniform—at the age of 32. With candid reflections on grueling training, overcoming setbacks, and navigating the demanding pararescue pipeline, Vieira offers a powerful look at the grit, heart, and humanity behind military service.This episode is a testament to perseverance, purpose, and the strength of the human spirit—and sets the stage for an equally inspiring Part 2.Tune in now to The Fog of War and Humanity on hmTv.Support the show

Send us a textEpisode 76: The Fog of War and Humanity with Richard Acritelli and Lt. Colonel Marty Vieira (Part 2)In this gripping continuation of The Fog of War and Humanity, host Richard Acritelli sits down with Lieutenant Colonel Marty Vieira of the 106th Rescue Wing to explore the high-stakes world of combat rescue and the human spirit behind the mission.From surviving grueling training in his 30s to leading life-saving operations in Iraq, Afghanistan, Africa, and the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, Vieira shares powerful insights into what it means to serve. He recounts one of the most extraordinary missions of his career—parachuting into stormy seas 1,500 miles offshore to rescue sailors from a burning cargo ship—demonstrating unmatched courage, medical expertise, and team coordination under extreme pressure.Now commander of the 103rd Rescue Squadron, Vieira reflects on the lessons learned from warzones to humanitarian efforts, emphasizing the values of discipline, leadership, and service.This episode is a masterclass in resilience, sacrifice, and the unwavering commitment of the U.S. Air Force’s elite rescue teams. Tune in to hear what it truly means to leave no one behind.Support the show

Send us a textEpisode 74: History Repeats with Liam Carballal and guest Richard Acritelli (Part 2)In Part 2 of this compelling History Repeats episode on hmTv, host Liam Carballal is joined once again by historian and educator Richard Acritelli to explore America’s transition from isolationism to wartime readiness in the years leading up to World War II.The conversation dives deep into the groundbreaking military vision of General Billy Mitchell, who championed the future of air power long before it was widely accepted—and paid the price. From his prophetic warnings about Pearl Harbor to his controversial court-martial, Mitchell’s legacy is explored alongside the rise of forward-thinking leaders like George C. Marshall, Dwight D. Eisenhower, and George S. Patton.Together, Liam and Richard examine how global events—from Hitler’s aggression in Europe to America’s gradual policy shifts like Lend-Lease and the Selective Service Act—shaped the modern U.S. military. They draw thought-provoking parallels between the appeasement of the 1930s and today’s geopolitical challenges, particularly in Ukraine.Packed with historical insight, vivid storytelling, and timely reflection, this episode reminds us that history doesn't just repeat—it teaches, warns, and inspires.Support the show