Ep 619: Influential Origins with Alan Mindel and guest Ramon Maislen P2 on hmTv

Ep 619: Influential Origins with Alan Mindel and guest Ramon Maislen P2 on hmTv

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2449781/fan_mail/new] Ep. 619 — Influential Origins with Alan Mindel Guest: Ramon Maislen — Part 2 hmTv at HMTC In Part 2 of Influential Origins, host Alan Mindel continues his conversation with Brooklyn real estate investor and community advocate Ramon Maislen about the growing tensions inside local community spaces after October 7th. Alan and Ramon examine the BDS movement, the difference between personal boycotts and joining an organized campaign against Israel, and how political activism entered the Park Slope Food Coop, a once-welcoming community institution built around cooperation, diversity, and shared responsibility. Ramon reflects on his own Zionism, his belief in self-determination for both Jews and Palestinians, and his growing concern over activists who deny Jewish self-determination altogether. The conversation also explores troubling claims made inside the co-op, including the accusation of “Jewish supremacy,” and how such language echoes historic patterns of dehumanization. Together, Alan and Ramon discuss how apathy allows extreme voices to dominate local institutions, why local elections and civic participation matter, and how misinformation, social media, and ideological certainty can fracture communities that once prided themselves on inclusion. This episode is a direct and timely look at antisemitism, identity, community breakdown, and the urgent need for people of conscience to speak up before silence becomes surrender. Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2449781/support]

Ep 618: Influential Origins with Alan Mindel and guest Ramon Maislen P1 on hmTv

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2449781/fan_mail/new] Ep. 618 — Influential Origins with Alan Mindel Guest: Ramon Maislen — Part 1 hmTv at HMTC In Part 1 of Influential Origins, host Alan Mindel sits down with Brooklyn real estate investor and community advocate Ramon Maislen for a powerful conversation about community, identity, antisemitism, and the dangerous shift he has witnessed in Brooklyn since October 7th. Ramon reflects on his deep connection to Brooklyn, especially Park Slope, a neighborhood long known for diversity, inclusivity, and neighborly connection. But after the Hamas attacks in Israel, Ramon says that sense of safety and shared community changed dramatically. With family ties to Israel and personal memories of living through the Second Intifada, he describes how the trauma of October 7th became deeply personal, while many around him seemed unable or unwilling to respond with empathy. Alan and Ramon discuss the rise of anti-Israel and antisemitic rhetoric in local politics, protests, graffiti, and community institutions, including disturbing incidents involving the Brooklyn Museum and the targeting of Jewish individuals. Ramon also shares his experience with the Park Slope Food Coop, once a place of connection across backgrounds, and how renewed efforts to bring the BDS movement into the co-op created division, hostility, and fear among Jewish members. This episode examines what happens when local activism crosses into intimidation, when community spaces become battlegrounds, and why paying attention to local politics and civic institutions matters more than ever. Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2449781/support]

Ep 617: The Israeli Bond with Gal Swisa Cohen and guests Michelle Herman & Rosanne Bogard on hmTv

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2449781/fan_mail/new] In this episode of The Israeli Bond on hmTv, host Gal Swisa Cohen welcomes Michelle Herman and Rosanne Bogard, co-founders of Kadima B’Yachad, an organization created in the aftermath of October 7th to support those impacted by the war in Israel. Michelle and Rosanne share how their work began with sending supplies to Israel and quickly grew into something much deeper: emotional support, trauma-informed care, community connection, wellness retreats, morale-boosting events, and practical help for IDF soldiers, lone soldiers, Nova survivors, hostage families, amputees, reservists, and families across Israel and the diaspora. Together, they discuss the meaning of Kadima B’Yachad, “moving forward together,” and explain how their mission is rooted in Jewish values, transparency, kindness, and the belief that no one should feel alone during times of crisis. This heartfelt conversation highlights the power of ordinary people choosing to act, build bridges, and bring more light into a wounded world. Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2449781/support]

Ep 616: Voices of Diversity with Sherona Varulkar and guest Dr. Jai Bansal on hmTv

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2449781/fan_mail/new] In this episode of Voices of Diversity on hmTv, host Sherona Varulkar welcomes Dr. Jai Bansal for a thoughtful conversation about identity, coexistence, faith, and the immigrant experience. Dr. Bansal shares his journey from India to North America, reflecting on his distinguished scientific career, his work in social service through the Vishva Hindu Parishad of America, and his commitment to educating the public about Hindu Dvesha, also known as Hinduphobia. Together, Sherona and Dr. Bansal explore the long history of Jewish life in India, the spirit of coexistence within Indian society, and the growing need for Hindu and Jewish communities to stand together against hatred. The conversation also introduces key ideas within Sanatana Dharma, including Vedanta, karma, rebirth, moksha, yoga, meditation, and the belief that there are many paths to one ultimate reality. Through comparisons between Hindu and Jewish thought, this episode offers a powerful reminder that respect, humility, and understanding are essential to building a more peaceful world. Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2449781/support]

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

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2449781/fan_mail/new] 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 [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2449781/support]