In this episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett, Rich is joined by award-winning journalist and author Roni Robbins to explore her powerful novel, Hands of Gold. Roni shares the incredible story of her grandfather, whose resilience through the Holocaust, a workplace shooting, and personal tragedies inspired her fictionalized account of his life. Together, they discuss themes of love, family, perseverance, and the importance of preserving history. This heartfelt conversation delves into the impact of past generations on shaping our present and highlights the relevance of these stories in today’s world.
Major Points of the Episode:
Introduction to Roni Robbins and Her Background
- Roni Robbins, an award-winning journalist with 36 years of experience, discusses her career writing for prominent outlets like the Atlanta Journal-Constitution and Medscape.
- Introduction to her novel, Hands of Gold, inspired by her grandfather’s life story
The Story Behind Hands of Gold
- The novel is based on her grandfather’s resilience through significant challenges, including surviving the Holocaust, tuberculosis, and a workplace shooting.
- Themes of love, family, and survival are central, highlighted by her grandparents’ 60-year marriage and poignant deaths exactly one year apart.
Reasons for Fictionalizing the Story
- Roni shares her decision to fictionalize the story for creative flexibility and to protect the privacy of those involved.
- She discusses incorporating dramatic elements and exploring sensitive family secrets.
Challenges and Triumphs of Writing the Book
- The difficulty of crafting authentic dialogue and balancing fact with fiction.
- A 7-year writing process, followed by 50 rejections before finding a professional publisher.
- The book’s reception, awards, and its inclusion in the U.S. Holocaust Museum and the Jerusalem Post.
Historical and Current Relevance
- The novel emphasizes the importance of learning from history, especially the Holocaust, to prevent repeating the past.
- Roni reflects on parallels between historical anti-Semitism and current global issues, including the war in Israel.
Family Legacy and Preservation
- The role of family stories in shaping identity and honoring ancestors.
- Roni encourages others to document their family histories as a way to connect with their roots.
Emotional Impact and Humor
- The novel’s balance of tragedy and humor, with moments that will make readers laugh and cry.
- Insights into Roni’s grandparents’ relationship and her grandfather’s wit and charm.
Key Takeaways for Listeners
- The importance of resilience, love, and perseverance in overcoming life’s challenges.
- Inspiring others to preserve their family history and appreciate their heritage.
Description of the Guest:
Roni Robbins is an award-winning journalist, author, and storyteller with over 36 years of experience in the field. Her impressive career includes writing for prestigious publications such as the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Medscape, and the New York Daily News. Drawing from her grandfather’s extraordinary life, Roni authored Hands of Gold, a fictionalized account inspired by his resilience during the Holocaust, surviving tuberculosis, and other challenges. Her work delves into powerful themes of love, perseverance, and family legacy, highlighting the strength of the human spirit. Beyond her writing, Roni is a passionate advocate for preserving family history and ensuring the lessons of the past remain relevant in today’s world.
The “Transformation” Listeners Can Expect After Listening:
Greater Appreciation for Family History:
- Understand the importance of preserving and sharing family stories to connect with personal heritage and identity.
Heightened Awareness of Resilience:
- Learn how past generations overcame extraordinary challenges, offering inspiration to face current struggles with perseverance and hope.
Deeper Insight into Holocaust History:
- Gain a fresh perspective on the Holocaust and its lasting impact, emphasizing the necessity of remembering history to prevent repeating its tragedies.
Renewed Perspective on Love and Legacy:
- Reflect on the enduring power of love and family bonds, as exemplified by Roni’s grandparents’ 60-year marriage and shared life story.
Motivation to Take Action:
- Feel inspired to record and preserve their own family’s history, ensuring that the stories of their ancestors are passed down to future generations.
Encouragement to Embrace Storytelling:
- Recognize storytelling as a powerful tool to connect with others, honor legacies, and spark meaningful conversations.
Reflection on Current Global Issues:
- Draw parallels between historical events and modern-day challenges, fostering a deeper understanding of the relevance of resilience, equity, and justice.
List of Resources Discussed:
Books:
- Hands of Gold by Roni Robbins (Roni’s novel inspired by her grandfather’s life story)
- References to The Secret and Chicken Soup for the Soul (mentioned as examples of enduring books)
Organizations and Institutions:
- U.S. Holocaust Museum (Washington, D.C. – features Hands of Gold in its collection)
- World War II Museum (New Orleans, suggested as a potential home for Hands of Gold)
- Jerusalem Post (featured Hands of Gold)
- Harford County Health Department (Sponsor for this episode, promoting their Diabetes Prevention Program)
Media Outlets:
- Atlanta Journal-Constitution (where Roni has written)
- Medscape (Roni’s journalism work)
- New York Daily News (another publication Roni has contributed to)
- Forbes and Huffington Post (publications where Roni’s work appeared as a freelancer)
Websites:
- RoniRobbins.com (Roni Robbins’ official website, includes book information, media appearances, and book club resources)
- HarfordCountyHealth.com (Diabetes Prevention Program information from the sponsor)
Social Media:
Roni Robbins’ accounts:
- Facebook: Multiple profiles, including personal and book pages
- X
- TikTok (managed by her son)
Programs and Tools:
- Amazon Breakthrough Novel Award Contest (where Hands of Gold was a quarterfinalist)
- Amsterdam Publishers (publisher of Hands of Gold, known for Holocaust memoirs)
Family History Resources:
- National Archives (referenced for research)
- Family History Center (run by the Mormon church, used for genealogical research)
- Ancestry.com (mentioned as a research tool for filling gaps in family history)
Engage Further with “Conversations with Rich Bennett”
If this episode moved you, don’t let the conversation end here. Dive deeper into the inspiring legacy of resilience and love by picking up Roni Robbins’ novel, Hands of Gold. Visit ronirobbins.com to learn more about her work, find book club resources, and explore her upcoming projects.
Preserve your own family’s stories and honor your heritage—start recording your family history today. Share what you discover with others to ensure these legacies live on.