Podcast Summary: Unsubscribe Podcast Episode 213 - Growing Up In Germany During WWII ft. Brandon’s Oma

Host/Authors: Eli Doubletap, Brandon Herrera, Donut Operator & The Fat Electrician
Guest: Bren Herrera (Brandon’s Oma)
Release Date: May 19, 2025

Introduction

In Episode 213 of the Unsubscribe Podcast, titled "Growing Up In Germany During WWII ft. Brandon’s Oma", the hosts—Eli Doubletap, Brandon Herrera, and Donut Operator—welcome a very special guest, Bren Herrera, who shares her poignant and harrowing experiences of growing up in Germany during the tumultuous years of World War II.

Early Life in Mannheim

Bren Herrera begins her narrative by recounting her childhood in Mannheim, Germany. Born in 1932, she was just six years old when the war intensified in her hometown. The increasing frequency of bombings led to the closure of her school and her subsequent relocation to a safer area in France.

Notable Quote:
Bren Herrera [02:10]: "I was in Mannheim. And I remember was about six years old, I went to school and everything was still quiet."

Separation from Family and Life in France

At the age of eight or nine, Bren and her younger brother were sent away from Mannheim to a small town in France as part of an effort to protect children from the dangers of bombing. Although they were housed by a wealthy family, Bren struggled with homesickness and the strict restrictions placed upon her, preventing her from seeing her friends.

Notable Quote:
Bren Herrera [05:22]: "And I didn’t stay too long with friends. I would say maybe six, eight months."

Life During Bombings and the Bunker Experience

Returning to Mannheim, Bren describes the constant fear of bombings. Her family took refuge in underground bunkers, where they spent nights to escape the air raids. Life was marked by severe food shortages, leading Bren and her brother to scavenge for food, including rationing and even eating horse meat to survive.

Notable Quote:
Bren Herrera [06:22]: "We even eat. I hate to say that, horse meat. It was pretty good at the time. And we had nothing. Right."

A Frightening Encounter in the Bunker

One of the most chilling episodes Bren recounts involves a tall man in a German uniform who appeared in her bunker's hallway. Despite being in her pajamas and feeling vulnerable, Bren's quick thinking and bravery helped protect her and her family from potential harm.

Notable Quote:
Bren Herrera [09:24]: "I woke up and there was a tall guy standing right in front of my bed. I was uncovered. Okay. I have pyjamas and he was standing there."

Impact of the War on Family

Bren's family endured significant hardships during the war. Her brothers were drafted: one, Hans, was captured by the British forces in North Africa and later transferred to England, where he bravely surrendered. The other brother was forced to do labor for the Nazis, working on constructing defenses by the river, with his ultimate fate remaining unknown.

Notable Quote:
Bren Herrera [30:03]: "He was drafted. What was his name? Hans."

Banding Together Amidst Chaos

Throughout her childhood, Bren emphasizes the resilience and unity of her family. Despite the constant threats, air raids, and personal losses, they remained determined to survive. Her experiences include witnessing the destruction of their community, caring for injured family members, and navigating the shifting frontlines as Allied forces advanced.

Notable Quote:
Bren Herrera [24:42]: "So I went to school there, you know? And then my mom came to visit again and she got sick."

Immigration to the United States

At the age of 20, Bren met her American husband, an encounter that would change her life trajectory. Their relationship faced numerous challenges, including language barriers and bureaucratic hurdles. Bren's journey to the United States was fraught with fear and uncertainty, but with determination, she managed to reunite with her husband and build a new life together in Oklahoma.

Notable Quote:
Bren Herrera [73:10]: "I was 20, I'd say 20. We went to Oklahoma."

Life in America and Reflections

Adjusting to life in America presented its own set of challenges for Bren, from learning to drive a stick-shift car to overcoming cultural and racial prejudices. Despite these obstacles, she reflects on her experiences with a sense of gratitude and resilience, offering heartfelt advice to younger generations about appreciating the privileges they have today.

Notable Quote:
Bren Herrera [94:36]: "That they're very lucky today what they got, you know, really. And a lot of kids today do not appreciate what they got."

Closing Thoughts and Legacy

Throughout the episode, Bren's stories highlight the incredible strength and perseverance she exhibited during one of history’s darkest periods. Her memories not only serve as a personal testament to survival but also as a valuable historical account for listeners to understand the profound impact of war on individual lives.

Notable Quote:
Bren Herrera [99:15]: "So I enjoy life a little bit. I'm grateful that I can live still on my own in my age... and I think everyone feels that way, don't you think?"

Conclusion Episode 213 of the Unsubscribe Podcast offers a deeply moving and insightful glimpse into Bren Herrera’s experiences growing up in Germany during World War II. Her storytelling provides listeners with a personal connection to historical events, emphasizing themes of resilience, family, and gratitude. This episode stands as a powerful reminder of the enduring human spirit in the face of unimaginable adversity.