Ira’s Everything Bagel | US Arts and Culture Podcasts

This week on "Ira’s Everything Bagel," Ira sits down with Andrew Buss, author of "I AM MCLOVIN: How Superbad Became the Biggest Comedy Hit of Its Generation." Andrew dives into his deep connection with the film, describing his first viewing as “electric” and reminiscing about seeing it with his father and grandfather. He shares how he balanced his roles as both a journalist and a passionate fan while writing the book, ensuring his love for the movie shone through. The conversation explores Superbad’s 12-year journey to the big screen, the heart that sets it apart, and the essential role Judd Apatow played in making it happen. Andrew also reveals Will Ferrell’s unexpected influence on the film’s production, the brilliant marketing that propelled it to global success, and the challenge of attempting a “clean” version during filming. Plus, he uncovers fascinating behind-the-scenes details about the cast and creative team—who, after all these years, still remain closely connected.
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Noshing With Joel Brokaw – February 6, 2025

This week, Ira spoke with Joel Brokaw, author of "Driving Marilyn: The Life and Times of Legendary Hollywood Agent Norman Brokaw." In this agential episode of “Ira’s Everything Bagel,” Joel talks about his father being in the right place at the right time in Holly-wood (1943); how he played a major role in the transition of television from being a nov-elty to a major medium; forming the first West Coast office for television in the William Morris Agency; why he loved working with people who had talent; the first star he convinced to perform on television; why starting out in the mailroom of William Morris was a test of character; Joel growing up in that environment; why writing the book helped his understanding of his father’s real talent; how his story needed to be told; why the book is a celebration of a fascinating character; why Norman was very discreet; how his father could cut to the chase; dealing with gifted but flawed clients; why Norman loved being an agent; how his success came at a cost to his personal life; his misconceptions of his fa-ther; why his father was totally fulfilled with his social network; his father’s generosity of spirit; and why relationships matter.
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Noshing With Lisa Cheek – January 30, 2025

This week, Ira spoke with film editor and writer Lisa Cheek, author of "Sit, Cinderella, Sit: A Mostly True Memoir." In this (A)vid episode of “Ira’s Everything Bagel,” Lisa talks about starting her career in Charleston, South Carolina, then Charlotte, and her big move to Los Angeles; why she loved working on commercials and traveling; learning to tell a story in 30 seconds; aging out of the job; accepting the unique offer to edit Cinderella and traveling to China; the distances required for location shooting; her “magical” assistant who spoke four languages; why she decided to write the book; her adopted two dogs in China; why she wanted the adventure; how she follows Hemmingway’s suggestion; the different ways she cut a scene; connecting to the Internet in remote villages; editing out-side with a view of the Yangtse River; her most meaningful experiences; kindness as a universal language; why there’s magic everywhere; and everybody will get something different from reading the book. (Also Watch Full Podcast Video)

Noshing With Jonathan L. Bowen – January 23, 2025

This week, Ira spoke with writer/director Jonathan L. Bowen, whose film, “The Comic Shop,” is set for streaming. In this comic episode of “Ira’s Everything Bagel,” Jonathan talks about his new film, shot on location in Las Vegas; why “The Comic Shop” is a slice-of-life love letter to comic fans that general audiences will easily relate to; the focus on his main character; being interested in film since being a teenager; why he chose phi-losophy instead of filmmaking in college; how a small book showed him how to make sure he stays on his A game; pursuing your passion (even if it’s parttime); why it’s more difficult for a director on a small-budget film than a big-budget one; casting for the film; how he wanted to make it a “Vegas” movie, but without the Strip; the interconnectedness of relationships; and why it's never too late to pursue your passion. (Also Watch Full Podcast Video)