As the winter weather sets in, there’s nothing better than cozying up at home with a warm drink and powerful stories that leave you inspired. Whether you’re snowed in or just looking for meaningful content to engage with during these chilly months, we’ve curated a list of compelling narratives you can explore right now.
Here are five impactful stories to watch that will connect you to resilience, humanity, and the power of storytelling:
The Cynthia and Harold Guttman Family Center for Storytelling amplifies stories from past and present to unpack lessons from history, foster deeper connection, and spark transformative change. From stories of survival during one of humanity’s darkest chapters to those of upstanders who are lighting the way today — this is where compelling and authentic stories come alive to inspire the best of humanity.
1. Watch the latest episode of the Upstander Ripple Effect, which explores the importance of gratitude.
This final episode of 2024 takes a heartfelt dive into the transformative power of gratitude. Hosts Jackie Congedo and Kevin Aldridge reflect on the year through the lens of thankfulness, sharing stories that highlight gratitude as a catalyst for hope, resilience, and positivity. From Holocaust survivor Henry Fenichel’s reflections on the preservation of his story to modern upstander Emily Kendall’s inspiring journey, this episode is a celebration of gratitude’s ripple effect in shaping lives and communities. Jackie and Kevin also explore the science behind gratitude, offering a simple daily practice to help listeners close the year with intention and hope. Watch or listen to the episode now.
2. Dive into positive psychology with The Positivity Project.
In this episode of The Upstander Ripple Effect, Jeff Bryan, co-founder of the Positivity Project, shares how his military background and positive psychology studies sparked a nationwide initiative to teach character strengths in schools. Guided by the principle “other people matter,” the project fosters confidence, empathy, and positive relationships, now impacting hundreds of schools across the U.S. and internationally. Host Jackie Congedo connects this transformative work to the Holocaust & Humanity Center’s mission, highlighting how character education builds a culture of upstanding and empowers students to act with integrity and support others. Watch now.
3. Listen to Rob Herman reflect on his family’s legacy and the importance of being an upstander.
“I wish I would have had a chance to meet them and thank them—because I exist. And as I tell my kids, they exist because of people like her,” reflects Rob Herman, son of Holocaust survivors Ed and Halina Herman, on the upstander who saved his father’s life. Ed and Halina endured unimaginable challenges during the Holocaust, including separation from family, imprisonment, and betrayal. Despite the scars they carried, they built incredible lives after liberation, creating a family, successful careers, and thriving communities. In conversation with Trinity Johnson from the Holocaust & Humanity Center, Rob shares the profound legacy his parents passed down, the importance of remembering upstanders, and how their courage continues to inspire his own family. Watch now.
4. Holocaust survivor Dr. Henry Fenichel reflects on his childhood.
In this episode of Hear My Story, Holocaust survivor Dr. Henry Fenichel reflects on his childhood under Nazi occupation. Imprisoned in Bergen-Belsen, Henry and his mother endured unimaginable hardships, including the loss of his father in Auschwitz. His mother’s determination secured their transfer to Palestine through a prisoner exchange, a pivotal moment in their survival. Now a retired physics professor, Henry dedicates his life to sharing his story, preserving the lessons of the Holocaust, and inspiring others to be upstanders. Watch the episode.
5. Beth Silvers and Sarah Stewart Holland teach us how to navigate tough conversations.
Perspective shapes how we see the world, especially in challenging times. In this episode of Hear My Story, we honor Sarah and Beth, recipients of the Upstander Award, for their dedication to fostering meaningful dialogue. “We’re both fluid, and I hope getting more fluid… because we spend so much time thinking and learning about these issues,” Beth Silvers reflects. The episode also highlights Captain Irwin Hurley, the WWII veteran for whom their award is named, whose letters home revealed his profound reflections on war and justice. Sarah and Beth share insights with Jackie Congedo on being upstanders, embracing vulnerability, and navigating tough conversations.
The Cynthia & Harold Guttman Family Center for Storytelling is generously supported by Cynthia & Harold Guttman, Ariella & Andy Cohen, Seth & Lauren Guttman, Jeremy Guttman & Aaron Breslow, Sadie & Josh Gelb, Hershel Guttman, and Jonah & Ariel Guttman.
Explore more stories and podcasts: https://www.holocaustandhumanity.org/storytelling/
