hmTv at HMTC Podcasts

Send us a textIn this compelling episode of "Ordinary Heroes," host Bernie Furshpan speaks with Syd Mandelbaum, a remarkable scientist, philanthropist, entrepreneur, and pioneering historian dedicated to preserving Holocaust survivor testimonies. Syd shares his groundbreaking work documenting personal stories from survivors and liberators, including his emotional connection and contribution to Steven Spielberg's Holocaust documentation efforts. He also discusses his diverse career achievements, from innovative infertility treatments to sports measurement technologies. Syd’s impactful journey exemplifies dedication to remembrance, scientific innovation, and humanitarian efforts, providing powerful insights and inspiration.Support the show

Send us a textEp 41: Influential Origins with Alan Mindel & Mazi Melesa Pilip (Part 2)In this powerful second installment of Influential Origins on hmTv, host Alan Mindel continues his in-depth conversation with Mazi Melesa Pilip — IDF veteran, community leader, mother of seven, and public servant.Mazi shares her extraordinary journey from a 12-year-old Ethiopian immigrant arriving in Israel, to becoming a gunsmith in the elite IDF paratroopers division. She opens up about the challenges she faced as a woman in the military, the deep friendships she formed across cultures and religions, and her academic path through Haifa and Tel Aviv Universities.Together, Alan and Mazi tackle difficult truths — from the horrors of wartime gender-based violence to the misconceptions about Israel’s diversity and democracy. Mazi discusses her move to the U.S., finding home in Great Neck, raising a large family, and the shift in her political values shaped by real-life experience and a commitment to safety, law enforcement, and fighting antisemitism.This episode is a moving reminder of resilience, integrity, and the enduring power of community and truth.Part 3 coming soon — don’t miss the conclusion of Mazi’s remarkable story.Support the show

Send us a textIn this compelling episode of Influential Origins, host Alan Mindel continues his conversation with Nassau County Legislator Mazi Melesa Pilip. Mazi shares her powerful journey into public service, recounting how personal experiences, commitment to community, and resilience guided her decision to run for office and become an advocate for all constituents, regardless of political affiliation. She discusses her tireless efforts combating antisemitism, the reintroduction of Nassau County's mask ban legislation, and her dedication to protecting minority rights, safety, and free expression amid rising tensions. This engaging discussion underscores the importance of courage, leadership, and unity in confronting hatred and fostering understanding. Support the show

Send us a textEpisode 40 – The Journey of Mazi Melesa Pilip: From Ethiopia to Israel (Part 1)Host: Alan MindelGuest: Mazi Melesa PilipPodcast Series: Influential Origins on hmTvIn this powerful and deeply moving episode, Alan Mindel sits down with Mazi Melesa Pilip to explore her remarkable journey from a remote Ethiopian village to becoming a proud Israeli soldier and public figure.Born into the Beta Israel community, Mazi recounts her childhood in rural Ethiopia, where her family lived in secrecy due to widespread discrimination against Ethiopian Jews. With no electricity, no running water, and little access to education, life was simple—but filled with faith and the enduring dream of reaching Jerusalem.That dream became a reality during Operation Solomon, the largest airlift in history, which rescued over 14,000 Ethiopian Jews in just 36 hours during Ethiopia's civil war. Mazi shares firsthand memories of leaving everything behind, boarding packed military planes, and kissing the ground upon arriving in Israel.From her first overwhelming days in a modern society to learning Hebrew, attending boarding school, and ultimately joining the IDF, Mazi’s story is one of resilience, courage, and unwavering identity.This is more than a personal story—it's a profound chapter in Jewish and human history.Support the show

Send us a textPodcast Episode Description – Ordinary Heroes, Ep. 39 Title: Max Niederman – A Voice for the Next GenerationIn Episode 39 of Ordinary Heroes on hmTv, host Bernie Furshpan sits down with Max Niederman, a passionate young leader, recent John Jay College graduate, and rising voice in civic engagement. Max shares his journey from struggling student to four-time geography bee champion and honors graduate with a deep love for American history and justice.Max opens up about his senior thesis on the political shift among Jewish American voters, his dreams of running for public office, and the personal experiences that have shaped his sense of service—including supporting a homeless Vietnam veteran for two years out of his own pocket. He also weighs in on rising antisemitism, the impact of social media on misinformation, and the challenges his generation faces in today’s world.This episode is a testament to resilience, empathy, and the power of young people to lead with integrity and heart. Max Niederman proves that age is no barrier to making a difference.Ordinary Heroes is a podcast series from hmTv at the Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance Center.Support the show

Send us a textPodcast Episode Description – Ordinary Heroes, Ep. 38 Title: Major Fred R. Nielsen – A Legacy of Service and SacrificeIn this powerful and deeply moving episode of Ordinary Heroes on hmTv, host Bernie Furshpan sits down with Major Fred R. Nielsen, a decorated U.S. Marine Corps veteran whose life has been shaped by service, sacrifice, and an unwavering commitment to others.From volunteering to serve in the Vietnam War to extending his deployment in an effort to protect his younger brother, Fred shares stories that reveal the true meaning of duty, honor, and brotherhood. He opens up about the loss of his brother in combat, the emotional weight of serving as a body escort, and how that grief reshaped his perspective on life.Now retired, Major Nielsen continues to serve his community—mentoring youth, advocating for veterans, and honoring history through ceremony and education. He discusses the importance of empowering veterans with dignity, not charity, and his belief that every veteran represents living history.This episode is a tribute to those who serve and a reminder of the human spirit’s resilience. Don't miss this heartfelt conversation with one of Glen Cove’s most respected leaders and a true American hero.Ordinary Heroes is a podcast from hmTv at the Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance Center.Support the show

Send us a textEpisode 37 of Ordinary Heroes on hmTv with Bernie Furshpan and guest Marsha Silverman:Podcast Title: Ordinary Heroes – Episode 37 Episode Title: Leading with Purpose: Marsha Silverman's Vision for Glen Cove Host: Bernie Furshpan Guest: Marsha Silverman, Glen Cove City Council MemberDescription: In this inspiring episode of Ordinary Heroes on hmTv, host Bernie Furshpan sits down with Glen Cove City Council Member Marsha Silverman — a bold, data-driven leader with a deep passion for equity, fiscal responsibility, and community empowerment. Marsha shares her journey from private sector finance to public service, what prompted her to step into politics, and the real impact she's made through her leadership.From revitalizing Glen Cove’s water infrastructure and pushing for OSHA compliance on construction sites to launching initiatives like Women’s History Month and LGBTQ+ Pride celebrations, Marsha discusses how transparency, inclusivity, and long-term planning shape her work.The conversation also dives into her powerful commitment to senior and youth engagement, combating antisemitism, and her future plans — including a run for mayor in 2025.Tune in to hear the story of a local changemaker who proves that thoughtful, principled leadership can truly transform communities.Support the show

Send us a textEchoes of the Past – Episode 36 (Part 2): "American Swastikas: The German American Bund on Long Island" Host: Zachary Graulich Guest: Donna Rosenblum, Director of EducationIn this eye-opening continuation of Echoes of the Past, Zachary Graulich and Donna Rosenblum take a deep dive into a lesser-known and unsettling chapter of American history—the rise of the German American Bund in the 1930s and its shocking presence right here on Long Island and in New York City.From a 1939 pro-Nazi rally at Madison Square Garden to the disturbing details of Camp Siegfried in Yaphank, this episode explores how Nazi ideology found fertile ground in American soil. Zach and Donna discuss the Bund's strategic use of democratic ideals, youth indoctrination camps, and propaganda that blurred the lines between American patriotism and fascist allegiance.A powerful conversation on the dangers of hate movements hiding in plain sight, the enduring impact of propaganda, and the importance of critical thinking—especially for younger generations.“It’s not just about what happened over there—it happened here.”Support the show

Send us a textEpisode 35: Disrupting Hate with Arnie Herz Podcast Series: Disrupting Hate | Host: Kenneth Schachter | Guest: Arnie HerzIn this powerful episode of Disrupting Hate, host Kenneth Schachter welcomes Arnie Herz, attorney, mediator, and leader on the Board of Governors of the American Jewish Committee (AJC). Together, they explore the critical role AJC has played for over a century in combating antisemitism, advocating for Israel, and promoting democratic values around the world.Arnie offers a deep dive into AJC’s foundational work—from its beginnings in response to pogroms in early 20th-century Russia to its involvement in the civil rights movement and modern global diplomacy. The conversation also covers the Abraham Accords and AJC's pivotal behind-the-scenes efforts to foster Jewish-Muslim relations in the Gulf region.The episode takes a hard look at rising antisemitism on college campuses, dissecting the forces behind recent hate-fueled demonstrations and AJC’s strategic response through education, advocacy, and leadership development programs like the Leaders for Tomorrow (LFT) and ACCESS.Insightful, sobering, and ultimately hopeful, this episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to understand the current challenges facing Jewish communities and the power of grassroots activism to disrupt hate.🎧 Topics Covered: – The origins and mission of AJC – The Abraham Accords and Middle East diplomacy – Antisemitism on college campuses – AJC’s youth and leadership programs – The importance of early education and civic engagement🔗 Subscribe and follow for more conversations that challenge bigotry and promote understanding.Support the show

Send us a textPodcast Episode Description – Episode 34: The Fog of War and Humanity (Part 3) Featuring Chief Master Sergeant Jack Brehm Hosted by Richard Acritelli | hmTvIn this powerful and deeply personal episode of The Fog of War and Humanity, Richard Acritelli continues his riveting conversation with Chief Master Sergeant Jack Brehm (Ret.), a decorated Air National Guardsman from the 106th Rescue Wing and retired Suffolk County Police Officer.Jack reflects on his post-Gulf War deployments in the Middle East, his unique transition from elite military Pararescue Jumper (PJ) to police officer on Long Island, and the challenges of reentering civilian life with a family of five. He shares vivid stories from Operation Northern and Southern Watch, his role in the early days of the Afghanistan War, and the critical work of the rescue teams on standby for combat pilots.This episode also explores Jack’s second career in law enforcement, where he brought his combat medic and scuba skills to the Suffolk County Police Department’s Marine Bureau, responding to crimes, rescues, and evidence recovery operations in and around Fire Island.From memorializing PJ tradition with the iconic “green feet” to appearing in the major motion picture The Last Full Measure, Jack’s journey is a tribute to service, resilience, and purpose. He also speaks candidly about his passion for fitness, extreme endurance races, and the joy of being an active grandfather and world traveler in retirement.Jack Brehm is also the author of That Others May Live, a compelling book that embodies the PJ motto and spirit.Tune in to hear the extraordinary story of a man who has lived a life of service—on the battlefield, in the streets, and in the hearts of those he’s protected.Listen now on hmTv.Support the show