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Ep. 240: Ordinary Heroes with Larry Russo on hmTv

In this powerful episode of Ordinary Heroes, host Bernie Furshpan speaks with filmmaker Larry Russo about his acclaimed PBS documentary Trezoros: The Lost Jews of Kastoria. The film weaves rare pre-war archival footage, survivor testimonies, and family photographs to resurrect the vibrant Jewish community of Kastoria, Greece—nearly wiped out during the Holocaust.

Russo shares his personal connection to the story, growing up as a Greek Jew in America, and his decades-long journey to bring the film to life. Together, he and Bernie discuss the 2,000-year history of Jews in Greece, the coexistence and betrayal that shaped wartime experiences, and the extraordinary acts of courage by those who risked their lives to save their neighbors.

More than a documentary, Trezoros is a call to memory, empathy, and tolerance at a time when antisemitism and hate continue to rise.

Watch the film at trezoros.com

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