hmTv at HMTC Podcasts

HMTC
  • 5.0 (2)
  • Society & Culture

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. 

  1. 12h ago

    Ep 615: The Fog of War and Humanity with Richard Acritelli and guest Andrea Nordquist P3 on hmTv

    Send us Fan Mail Ep. 615 | The Fog of War and Humanity Guest: Andrea Nordquist, Military Blue Star Mothers NY Chapter 14 Part 3 | hmTv at HMTC In Part 3 of The Fog of War and Humanity, host Richard Acritelli concludes his conversation with Andrea Nordquist of Military Blue Star Mothers NY Chapter 14, highlighting the creative, personal, and deeply human ways the organization supports veterans, military families, and communities across Long Island. Andrea shares the many projects led by the Blue Star Mothers, including “Rosie” sewing events, handmade pillowcases for veterans receiving treatment, Christmas trees decorated with repurposed Wreaths Across America bows, and upcoming wreath-making efforts for veterans. She reflects on the emotional moments when small gestures, such as a simple holiday tree, brought comfort to veterans who had not decorated in years, including one veteran living in his car. The conversation also explores the group’s support for veterans in prison programs, including collecting yarn so incarcerated veterans can crochet and knit hats, scarves, mittens, and toys for underprivileged children. Andrea explains how these efforts give veterans purpose, structure, dignity, and a chance to give back. Richard and Andrea discuss the importance of delegation, community partnerships, local businesses that quietly support veterans, and the ongoing challenges of fundraising and public perception. Andrea also speaks about cooking monthly meals for veterans at Liberty Village, supporting awareness around veteran suicide through “22 a day” efforts, and recognizing that even small donations and acts of kindness can make a meaningful difference. The episode closes with a powerful message about involving young people in service, planting seeds of responsibility, and never underestimating what students and future generations can accomplish when given a chance to care, contribute, and lead. This final part is a moving tribute to service, volunteerism, compassion, and the quiet army of people who make sure veterans and their families are never forgotten. Support the show

    22 min

  2. 13h ago

    Ep 614 The Fog of War and Humanity with Richard Acritelli and guest Andrea Nordquist P2 on hmTv

    Send us Fan Mail Ep. 614 | The Fog of War and Humanity Guest: Andrea Nordquist, Military Blue Star Mothers NY Chapter 14 Part 2 | hmTv at HMTC In Part 2 of The Fog of War and Humanity, host Richard Acritelli continues his conversation with Andrea Nordquist of Military Blue Star Mothers NY Chapter 14, exploring the urgent needs facing veterans and military families across Nassau County, Queens, and Long Island. Andrea discusses the work of the Blue Star Mothers, including fundraising, food support for veterans through the Vet Mart in East Meadow, and the growing reality that many veterans in need are not elderly, but young service members and families struggling to make ends meet in one of the most expensive regions in the country. She shares how the organization provides food, meat, gift cards, and support for children of veterans during the holiday season. The conversation also turns to honoring fallen and forgotten veterans, including the burial of unclaimed veterans at Long Island National Cemetery. Andrea explains how the veteran community comes together with color guards, music, and presence so that no veteran is laid to rest alone. Richard and Andrea also reflect on Long Island’s deep military history, the importance of recognizing students entering military service, the challenges recruiters face in schools, and the value of military experience in careers such as law enforcement and public service. The episode closes with powerful reflections on September 11, the lasting impact on Long Island families, the work of Tunnel to Towers, and the responsibility to keep history alive for younger generations who did not live through it. This episode is a meaningful tribute to veterans, military families, community service, and the people who quietly step forward to make sure those who served are seen, honored, and supported. Support the show

    26 min

  3. 15h ago

    Ep 613: The Fog of War and Humanity with Richard Acritelli and guest Andrea Nordquist P1 on hmTv

    Send us Fan Mail Ep. 613 | The Fog of War and Humanity Guest: Andrea Nordquist, Military Blue Star Mothers NY Chapter 14 Part 1 | hmTv at HMTC In Part 1 of The Fog of War and Humanity, host Richard Acritelli welcomes Andrea Nordquist, President of Military Blue Star Mothers NY Chapter 14, for a heartfelt conversation about service, sacrifice, family, and the ongoing responsibility to support America’s veterans. Andrea shares her Long Island roots, her path from Nassau Community College and Cortland to teaching and community service, and the military legacy within her own family. She reflects on her father’s service in the Army Air Corps and the powerful story of her Uncle Joe, a wounded World War II veteran and Purple Heart recipient who lost his arm after being injured in France, then spent years giving back to other veterans through volunteer service. Richard and Andrea discuss the importance of preserving veterans’ stories before they are lost, especially as families uncover photographs, records, and artifacts from relatives who rarely spoke about their wartime experiences. Their conversation also explores the critical role of organizations like the VFW, American Legion, AMVETS, and Blue Star Mothers in providing camaraderie, support, and a sense of belonging for service members and their families. Andrea also speaks about her son’s decision to join the Air Force, his continued service in the Air National Guard, and her own journey into the Blue Star Mothers. She explains how the organization supports military families, honors fallen service members, assists veterans, reaches out to elderly shut-ins, recognizes widows of veterans, and encourages young people entering military service. This episode highlights the human side of military service, the value of community, the importance of mental health support, and the need to make sure veterans know they are never forgotten. Support the show

    26 min

  4. 2d ago

    Ep 612: The Israeli Bond with Gal Swisa Cohen and guest Gal Atia on hmTv

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of The Israeli Bond on hmTv, host Gal Swisa Cohen welcomes Gal Atia, Head of Delegation and Chief Program Officer for North America at the Jewish Agency for Israel. Gal shares his personal journey from serving as a basketball coach at Camp Ramah in Wisconsin to leading one of the Jewish Agency’s most important North American missions. Through stories from summer camp, shlichut, and Jewish communal life, he explains how Israeli emissaries build lasting relationships, strengthen Jewish identity, and create meaningful bridges between Israel and Jewish communities across North America. The conversation explores the power of shlichut, the unique role of Israeli emissaries, the impact of summer camps, the importance of partnerships, and the Jewish Agency’s work after October 7. Gal also discusses programs such as Campers Together, which brings Israeli children from impacted communities to North American camps, and reflects on why this moment calls for collaboration, action, and renewed mutual responsibility. This episode offers an inspiring look at how personal connection, purpose, and people-to-people relationships can strengthen the bond between Israel and Jewish communities around the world. Support the show

    30 min

  5. 2d ago

    Ep 611: Many Voices. One Community with Gaitley Stevenson Mathews and guest Kate Csillag on hmTv

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Many Voices. One Community on hmTv, host Gaitley Stevenson Mathews welcomes Kate Csillag, founder of Knit with Kate, for a warm and inspiring conversation about the power of knitting, crocheting, service, and human connection. Kate shares how fiber arts have been part of her life since childhood and how she now uses knitting and crochet to bring people together across Glen Cove, Bayville, libraries, senior centers, temples, and community spaces. What begins with yarn and needles becomes something far greater: a place of belonging, friendship, healing, and purpose. Together, Gaitley and Kate explore how creative arts can bridge differences, reduce loneliness, and build community among people of all ages, backgrounds, and experiences. Kate also discusses her group’s charitable work, including a remarkable veterans drive that collected more than 1,600 handmade and donated items, as well as ongoing donations of blankets and other items to veterans, shelters, and those in need. This heartfelt episode reminds us that community can be built one stitch, one conversation, and one act of kindness at a time. Support the show

    25 min

  6. 2d ago

    Ep 610: Many Voices. One Community with Gaitley Stevenson Mathews and guest Gina Florio on hmTv

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Many Voices. One Community on hmTv, host Gaitley Stevenson Mathews welcomes Dr. Gina Florio, Dean of the School of Arts and Sciences at Molloy University, for a thoughtful conversation about education, leadership, mentorship, and the lasting value of a liberal arts foundation. Dr. Florio shares her personal journey from growing up in Middle Village, Queens, to discovering her passion for laboratory-based chemistry at Vassar College, continuing her academic path through Purdue University and Columbia University, and ultimately dedicating her career to higher education. She reflects on the professor who helped change the trajectory of her life and how that experience continues to inspire her work with students today. Together, Gaitley and Dr. Florio explore the deep connection between science and the arts, the importance of curiosity and creativity, and the role of educators in helping students find confidence, purpose, and direction. They also discuss Molloy University’s commitment to service, community, ethical leadership, first-generation students, and the changing needs of Long Island’s diverse student population. This inspiring conversation reminds us that education is not only about acquiring knowledge. It is about building character, strengthening community, and preparing students to serve the greater good. Support the show

    26 min

  7. 3d ago

    Ep 609: Disrupting Hate with Ken Schachter and guest William G Holst on hmTv

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Disrupting Hate on hmTv, host Ken Schachter welcomes William G. Holst, former assistant county attorney in Suffolk County, longtime member of the Smithtown Anti-Bias Task Force, and author of Bicentennial Trifecta. Together, they explore how bias and hate can surface even in communities that see themselves as welcoming, and why early education is essential in preventing hate from taking root. Holst reflects on the origins of the Smithtown Anti-Bias Task Force, created after swastikas were found on a high school graduation field in Commack, and discusses the importance of school-based programs, bias-free zones, community partnerships, and helping young people understand that hateful acts are not harmless pranks, but deeply damaging messages. The conversation also touches on the changing diversity of Long Island, the challenge of proving intent in hate crime cases, and the ongoing need for local action, awareness, and education. The episode concludes with a look at Holst’s background in journalism, law, military service, and his historical fiction novel Bicentennial Trifecta, which follows an Army journalist during America’s Bicentennial year. Support the show

    27 min

  8. 4d ago

    Ep 608: The Dana Download with Dana Arschin and guest Rhonda Fink-Whitman on hmTv

    Send us Fan Mail Ep. 608: The Dana Download with Dana Arschin and Guest Rhonda Fink-Whitman on hmTv In this episode of The Dana Download, host Dana Arschin welcomes author, educator, and Holocaust education advocate Rhonda Fink-Whitman for a powerful conversation about memory, responsibility, and action. Rhonda, the daughter of a Holocaust survivor, shares the story behind her book 94 Maidens, which tells the true story of her mother’s survival and Rhonda’s journey to uncover sealed Nazi documents about her family’s fate. She also discusses her graphic novel, Daughters of the Holocaust, which reimagines daughters of survivors as modern-day fighters against antisemitism and Holocaust denial. The conversation also explores Rhonda’s years of advocacy for mandatory Holocaust education, including her viral “Mandate Video,” her role in helping advance Holocaust education legislation across multiple states, and her current efforts to strengthen Holocaust education requirements in Pennsylvania. Through personal family history, educational activism, and an urgent call to preserve memory, this episode reminds listeners why Holocaust education must not be optional and why the responsibility to teach future generations belongs to all of us. Support the show

    27 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

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. 

Information

  • Creator
    HMTC
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    613
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 © 2025 hmTv at HMTC Podcasts
  • Show Website
    hmTv at HMTC Podcasts