Ira’s Everything Bagel

Noshing With William Anderson – June 1, 2023

This week, Ira spoke with William Anderson, author of “The Price of Perfect.” In this frank episode of “Ira’s Everything Bagel,” William talks about why he decided to write about the “racial divide” as a novelist rather than as a non-fiction writer; why he wrote about being frank on both sides of the equation; why he was warned off about writing the book after submitting his first draft; how the tree in the novel is a metaphor for America; why social and traditional media have failed us on the race debate; and why the story that chronicles the conflict between a modern-day Atlanta developer and the preservation of a historic site rooted in the city’s dark history leaves him both optimistic and pessimistic about the future.

Noshing With Al Olson – May 25, 2023

This week, Ira spoke with Al Olson, author of “A History of the American Renaissance Festival. Where Have all the Hippies gone?” In this costumed episode of “Ira’s Everything Bagel,” Al talks about his history with renaissance festivals, going back decades; why they are popular and how they are totally inclusive; why they have become more corporate; why he wrote the book; and who are the important festival contributors over the decades.

Noshing With Sarah Van Loon – May 18, 2023

This week, Ira spoke with Sarah van Loon, Chicago Regional Director for the American Jewish Committee (AJC) about Jewish American Heritage Month. In this tribal episode of “Ira’s Everything Bagel,” Sarah talks about the contributions of Jews to America; combating antisemitism; her personal conversion to Judaism; the diversity of Jews in all walks of life; Jewish joy; and why Jewish American Heritage Month is important.

Noshing With Vicki Cody – May 11, 2023

This week, Ira spoke with Vicki Cody, author of “Army Wife” and “Fly Safe.” In this spousal episode of “Ira’s Everything Bagel,” Vicki talks about the stresses and strains and joys of being a military wife; why she decided to write books about her family’s experiences through the years; her best advice to military couples and families; why she wrote the books in a way that everyone could get something from them; and how commitment keeps the marriage bonds strong through thick and thin.