Noshing With Fons Burger – July 9, 2026
Author, The Only Possible Solution: How to Shape the Future for Our Next Generations
What if climate change, economic inequality, migration, food insecurity, political division, and declining trust aren't separate crises—but different symptoms of the same underlying challenge?
On this episode of “Ira's Everything Bagel,” I sit down with journalist, author, publisher, activist, and entrepreneur Fons Burger, author of The Only Possible Solution: How to Shape the Future for Our Next Generations. Drawing on years of research and conversations with leading thinkers from around the world, Fons presents an ambitious—but surprisingly practical—vision for creating a more sustainable, equitable, and hopeful future.
During our conversation, Fons explains how he came to believe that every major problem has a solution if we're willing to think differently—and think together. He discusses why today's biggest global challenges are deeply interconnected, why long-term thinking is essential, and why solving migration begins by improving economic opportunity in the countries people are leaving.
We also explore why his book is intentionally journalistic rather than political or scientific, how he selected the experts whose ideas shaped his work, and why optimism and pragmatism—not fear—are the keys to meaningful progress. Fons shares his thoughts on global governance, why preserving local cultures and national identities remains important, the fascinating experts who most influenced his thinking, what's still on his personal bucket list, and why he believes the future can be far brighter than many imagine.
If you've ever wondered whether humanity can overcome its greatest challenges—or whether we're asking the wrong questions altogether—this thought-provoking conversation offers fresh perspectives and unexpected hope.
ABOUT FONS:
Fons Burger is a journalist and author whose work focuses on one central question: how can we solve the complex, interconnected crises of our time? Blending investigative journalism with cultural innovation and activism, he has spent decades developing projects, documentaries, and initiatives that challenge conventional thinking and point toward systemic change. Since 2003, he has published nine books in Dutch, including thrillers, novels, and cookbooks, three of which were later released in the United States. In December 2025, the English edition of his latest novel, 2125 – The Hibernator, was published, a visionary story about awakening in a future where humanity has learned to live in balance with nature. With The Only Possible Solution, Fons brings together years of research and experience into a clear, compelling vision of how a better future can actually be built.
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