In this episode, Leya Kaufman reflects on how her Jewish identity has been profoundly shaped by her grandfather, Holocaust survivor Alex Gross. She shares her journey of piecing together her family’s history, from her grandfather’s humble beginnings to his post-war struggles, and the responsibility she feels to preserve his legacy for future generations.

Leya draws poignant parallels between the Holocaust and today’s rising antisemitism, recounting her personal experiences advocating for Jewish pride and resilience. From supporting Jewish and Israeli businesses to participating in the DC March for Israel, Leya’s unwavering commitment to her heritage shines throughout the discussion.

Amidst the challenges of confronting modern hate, Leya finds strength and hope in her family’s enduring traditions, such as their weekly Shabbat gatherings. Her story serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience of Jewish identity and the vital importance of sharing survivors’ stories while we still can.

Leya shares the story of her grandfather, Alex Gross, who survived the Holocaust by lying about his age and is a member of the largest group of siblings to survive the Holocaust here.

A glossary is available for any terms mentioned in this episode that may require further context.

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Leya shares the story of her grandfather, Alex Gross, who was a child when the Holocaust broke out. He survived Auschwitz by pretending to be older than his age, while initially separated from his parents and siblings, he miraculously was reunited with his brothers, Bill and Sam, towards the end of the war while in forced labor. Alex was one of seven children, and was able to connect with his siblings after the way. Alex and his siblings are the largest group of siblings to have survived the Holocaust.

A glossary is available for any terms mentioned in this episode that may require further context.

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In this episode, siblings Ari Sarna and Ilana Sarna Toledano reflect on how growing up as grandchildren of survivors shaped their lives. Together they recall tender moments piecing together their family's painful past, the significance of visiting the small shtetl where their grandfather, Joseph Sarna was born, and the impact on their family since Ari’s original interview was published.

Reflecting on the eerie parallels between the Holocaust and October 7th, Ari and Ilana recount their personal experiences while in Israel. Amidst the somber reminder of persistent antisemitism, the siblings find hope and resilience in their family’s legacy.

Their story is a powerful call to share survivors' firsthand accounts while possible and to strive for a world where "never again" is a reality.

A glossary is available for any terms mentioned in this episode that may require further context.

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Ari shares the story of his grandfather, Joseph Sarna, who was the oldest of six boys, born to a religious family in Dzialoszyce, Poland. Joseph was born with a leg deformity, and the Polish doctors told Joseph’s parents to amputate. His parents went to the Chief Rabbi, who told them if it doesn’t hurt when he walks, to leave it alone, which ultimately saved Joseph’s life during the way. Ari shares how despite his disability, Joseph’s strength of character and grit got him through horrific conditions during the Holocaust. Ari shares Joseph’s story of survival from Plaszow Concentration Camp, Oscar Schindler’s factory, narrowly escaping death at Auschwitz, and brutal working conditions at Mauthausen. He reconnected with the woman who would become his wife, in Deggenedorf Displaced Person’s Camp, after the war. Joseph survived the Holocaust through a series of miracles, and went on to become a success - both in business and in life, someone who was adored by his family and greatly respected by his community.

If you heard what Ari heard, you would never forget.

A glossary is available for any terms mentioned in this episode that may require further context.

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Please visit www.ifyouheardwhatiheard.com to watch more stories and support.

If You Heard What I Heard is a nonprofit organization dedicated to documenting the stories of the grandchildren of Holocaust survivors, the last generation to hear survivor stories firsthand. We create modern Holocaust media that humanizes the history of the Holocaust, drives empathy, and inspires action to stand up to antisemitism in all forms. Listen to the powerful stories, and what their survival and resilience means for all of us today.

Join us in honoring these survivors and taking action to fight antisemitism in all forms.

If you heard what I heard, you would never forget, and you would do everything possible to make sure what happened to our grandparents and their families never happens again.

To learn more about our work and ways you can support, please visit ifyouheardwhatiheard.com, and check back here every Tuesday for new Podcast episodes and content!

A glossary is available for any terms mentioned in this episode that may require further context.

If you're interested in sponsoring an episode, please email us at info@ifyouheardwhatiheard.com

Please visit www.ifyouheardwhatiheard.com to watch more stories and support.