Ep. 321 Richard Bernstein
Richard Bernstein: Teaching on the Front Lines, the Root of Antisemitism, and Mentoring the Next Generation After the Loss of Blaze Bernstein
In Episode 321 of PeppTalks with Jeanne, we are joined by a guest who is both a distinguished educator and a cornerstone of the host's own family: Richard Bernstein. Richard is a former honors civics teacher who dedicated twenty years to the Los Angeles Unified School District at Vermont High School. Teaching in an area so volatile it was designated for "combat pay," Richard developed a unique perspective on the failures and successes of the American educational system, specifically regarding how we prepare our youth for the complexities of the modern world.
Richard Bernstein and Jeanne Pepper at the PeppTalks Studios September 2025
Long before the tragic murder of his grandson, Blaze Bernstein, in 2018, Richard was an expert student of the history and mechanics of antisemitism. His research is informed by a deeply personal proximity to history; his wife, Jeanne’s mother-in-law, is one of the last living Holocaust survivors. This episode explores how Richard’s academic study of hate was forced to collide with an unimaginable family tragedy, and how his understanding of historical cycles helps him navigate the current global climate.
Richard’s impact on his community extended far beyond the classroom through his entrepreneurial spirit. What began as a "side hustle" tax preparation business evolved into a powerful vehicle for student mentorship. Richard intentionally employed his brightest students from the inner city, providing them with professional experience and financial opportunities that bridged the gap between high school and successful college careers. For many of these students, Richard wasn't just a teacher; he was the catalyst for their entire professional trajectory.
The conversation dives into Richard's critique of contemporary education, arguing that the way we educate children today is fundamentally linked to the social and political unrest we see in our streets. He shares his insights on why civic education is failing and what must change to protect the next generation from the ideologies that claimed his grandson’s life.
As your host, Jeanne Pepper, I invite you into this intimate and heavy-hitting conversation. This is more than a podcast episode; it is a family's shared mission to understand the "why" behind the headlines and to continue the work of #BlazeItForward through education, historical truth, and the unwavering belief in the potential of students from every background.
Episode 321
Hosted by: Jeanne Pepper
Guest: Richard Bernstein
Executive Producer: Jeanne Pepper
Producer: Eli Moskowitz
Original Theme: Jay Bernstein
Special Thank You to our volunteers
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DISCLAIMER Jeanne Pepper is providing this podcast as a public service. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by Jeanne Pepper unless so stated. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Views and opinions expressed by Ms. Pepper’s guests are those of the guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of Ms. Pepper. If you have any questions about this disclaimer or the content herein, please contact us at Producers@PepptalkswithJeanne.com #PeppTalkswithJeanne #JeannePepper #BlazeitForward
