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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