This episode brings a heartfelt exploration of gratitude, fittingly marking the final episode of 2024.
“Gratitude is the kinetic energy behind the ripple effect.” – Jackie Congedo, host and CEO of the Nancy & David Wolf Holocaust & Humanity Center
Hosts Jackie Congedo and Kevin Aldridge reflect on the year gone by, using the theme of gratitude as both a lens for reflection and a springboard for action. By closing the year on a note of thankfulness, they encourage listeners to pause and recognize the transformative power of gratitude, especially as it ties to hope, resilience, and the ripple effect of positivity in the world.
They share a conversation between Holocaust survivor Henry Fenichel and Director of Collections & Exhibitions Cori Silbernagel, where both express heartfelt gratitude—Henry for how his story is preserved and shared, and Cori for the privilege of curating and learning from his experiences at the center. The episode also celebrates modern upstanders, such as Emily Kendall, whose work was inspired by her son Luke’s ability to live in the present and approach life with inherent gratitude.
In addition, Jackie and Kevin emphasize the scientific backing behind gratitude, explaining how this practice reshapes our mindset and fosters well-being. The hosts encourage listeners to adopt a simple gratitude ritual—naming three things they’re thankful for daily—and share personal reflections on how this practice has impacted their own lives.
This episode is part of the Cynthia & Harold Guttman Center for Storytelling. Subscribe here https://www.youtube.com/@holocaustandhumanity
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Episode Resources
Read what the VIA Institute on Character says about the strength of gratitude
https://www.viacharacter.org/character-strengths/gratitude
USC study mapping gratitude in the brain
Previous episode with Dr. Dan Tomasulo on cultivating hope and practicing gratitude
https://www.holocaustandhumanity.org/podcast-episode/standing-up-strong-with-dan-tomasulo/
Learn more about survivor Henry Fenichel
https://www.holocaustandhumanity.org/podcast-episode/hear-my-story-henry-fenichel/
https://www.holocaustandhumanity.org/exhibits/dimensions-in-testimony/
Learn more about upstander Emily Kendall
https://www.holocaustandhumanity.org/podcast-episode/hear-my-story-emily-kendall/
Find details here on free admission throughout January