Sports Exec. and Son of a Survivor, Lawrence Burian (Yom HaShoah Special Episode)

With Yom HaShoah coming up this week, I sat down with Lawrence Burian, the COO of LIV Golf and the son of a Holocaust survivor. Before joining LIV Golf, Lawrence held a number of senior positions at the Madison Square Garden Company, the group behind the MSG Arena, the Knicks, the Rangers, MSG Network, and more. We spoke about his career, his father’s story, and how the two deeply interact. We also discussed Lawrence’s family’s involvement in Holocaust remembrance efforts, what Holocaust education should look like in 2025, and what it means to carry legacy into boardrooms, classrooms, and Jewish homes.This is a conversation about memory—but also mission.About trauma—but also strength.About Jewish identity that doesn't just survive—but builds.Topics we explore:Growing up as the son of a survivor—and what that taught Lawrence about purpose and pressureThe power of showing up proudly Jewish in high-stakes roomsLessons from a 13-year-old in Auschwitz that still echo in today’s leadership decisionsWhy Holocaust education needs to shift from trauma to relevanceOctober 7th, antisemitism, and why “never again” has to mean action—not slogansMentioned in this episode:A Boy From Bustina by Andrew Burian z”l (Order here – all proceeds go to Yad Vashem)Lessons From Our ParentsMan’s Search for Meaning – Viktor FranklThe Choice – Edith EgerSubscribe to our newsletter at shtarktank.org for more from working Bnei Torah around the world.Join our quiet whatsapp group for episode updates, event invites and exclusive bonus content.Chapters00:00 Introduction03:51 Lawrence's Journey in the Sports Industry06:53 Andrew Burian z"l, Lawrence's father16:00 Navigating Identity and Responsibility21:54 Contrasting Generations: From Trauma to Success25:00 Engaging the Next Generation in Holocaust Education33:47 Reflections Post October 7th39:45 Lightning Round: Personal Insights and Reflections