In this episode, Sheena interviews Tomi Reichental, a Holocaust survivor, who shares his harrowing story of being incarcerated at the Bergen Belsen concentration camp at the age of nine. Tomi recounts the persecution inflicted upon Jewish families in Slovakia under President Josef Tiso's regime, the dehumanising experiences faced by Jews, and the horrors of life in the concentration camps. Despite the immense suffering, Tomi represents hope, teaching valuable lessons on humanity, empathy, and the importance of remembering history to prevent future atrocities. His conversation with Sheena highlights the dangers of propaganda and the critical need for kindness in a world filled with conflict and hate.

00:00 Introduction and Trigger Warning

00:20 Meeting Tomi and His Story Begins

02:18 Life in Slovakia Before the War

02:49 The Rise of Anti-Semitism and Persecution

05:49 Impact of the Jewish Codex

11:06 The Role of Propaganda and Community Response

16:43 Family's Struggle and Acts of Bravery

26:28 Tomi's Father's Arrest and Escape

28:02 The Family's Attempt to Escape

31:18 Arrest and Detention

32:54 Transport to Extermination Camp

33:45 Life in the Cattle Cart

36:00 Arrival at Bergen Belsen

37:12 Life in Bergen Belsen

40:31 Memories of Loss

43:25 Speaking Out About the Holocaust

49:32 The Importance of Remembering

53:23 Reflections on Modern Conflicts

58:10 Final Thoughts and Gratitude

Tomi's book is available here - https://obrien.ie/tomi

Many thanks to DW Classical Music for snippets of music.

More information about the Holocaust is available from the Irish Jewish Museum - https://jewishmuseum.ie/jews-of-ireland/ireland-the-holocaust/

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