Ira's Everything Bagel

Ira David Sternberg
  • 5.0 (2)
  • Arts

Discover Ira’s Everything Bagel, a blend of US arts and culture. Schmeared with podcasts rich in ideas worth spreading, as well as captivating stories.

  1. 6d ago

    WHEN MEDICAL BREAKTHROUGHS MEET THE BLACK MARKET: ANDERSON BOYD ON THE LEASE OF NATURE AND THE FUTURE OF ORGAN TRANSPLANTS

    Noshing With Anderson Boyd – July 23, 2026 Author, The Lease of Nature This week on “Ira’s Everything Bagel,” Ira sits down with award-winning writer, director, producer, and editor Anderson “Drew” Boyd, author of the riveting new techno-thriller The Lease of Nature. Watch Full Podcast Video What happens when one of medicine’s greatest breakthroughs becomes the world’s most dangerous commodity? Anderson’s gripping novel imagines a near future in which 3-D printed human hearts revolutionize transplant medicine—only to collide with the brutal realities of the international black-market organ trade. The result is a suspenseful story that feels less like science fiction and more like tomorrow’s headlines. In this fascinating conversation, Anderson reveals why he chose the book’s memorable epitaph, the inspiration behind writing The Lease of Nature, and how his lifelong passion for storytelling led him into the creative arts. He discusses his early experiences in filmmaking, why he enjoys working in both fiction and nonfiction, and the unique satisfaction he finds in the editing process. Anderson also shares how the story began as a screenplay before evolving into a richly layered novel, allowing him to expand the characters, world-building, and moral complexity. He explains the real-world research behind the “red market” for human organs, why advances in biotechnology make his story increasingly plausible, and how today’s medical innovations could shape tomorrow’s ethical dilemmas. The conversation also explores his writing process—from outlining and drafting to the lessons he learned after prematurely sharing what he jokingly calls his “vomit draft.” Anderson explains why he often writes longhand as well as using a computer, how he developed the novel’s intriguing title, and why editing remains one of his favorite creative pursuits. If you’re fascinated by medical innovation, ethical dilemmas, crime thrillers, filmmaking, or the creative process behind writing compelling fiction, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. ABOUT ANDERSON: Anderson “Drew” Boyd is an award-winning writer, director, producer and editor. Over the past 20 years he’s earned credits on projects ranging from the Oscar-nominated Winter’s Bone theatrically released documentaries and everything in between.  His directorial debut, Well Wishes, exhibited on Netflix from 2016-2018. He has since produced and edited several feature films, shorts and spec pilots. His latest screenplay, the Western odyssey Mescalero, badged as the #1 Western on the Coverfly Red List and finished Top 50 in the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences 2022 Nicholl Fellowship. Presently, he’s writing a high-concept farce, The Time Traveler’s Gala.  Anderson is a member of the Producers Guild of America, an affiliate member of American Cinema Editors, a United Arts Council Grantee and 3x Stowe Story Lab alum. The Lease of Nature Website Watch the full Podcast Video iframe class="video" src=" https://www.youtube.com/embed/pq1sjQCwLX8?si=h5QqYRT3hncICnaL" title=" title="YouTube video player" title="YouTube video player

  2. Jul 16

    How Animals Are Thriving in Our Cities: Dan Werb on Our Wild Familiars and the Hidden Urban Wild

    This week on “Ira's Everything Bagel,” Ira welcomes award-winning writer and social epidemiologist Dan Werb, author of "Our Wild Familiars: How Animals Are Adapting to Cities and Reshaping the Natural World" for a captivating conversation about the surprising ways wildlife has learned to thrive alongside us.

  3. Jul 9

    CAN THE WORLD’S BIGGEST PROBLEMS BE SOLVED TOGETHER? FONS BURGER THINKS SO

    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.

  4. Jul 2

    WHY WEIRD WINS: DAVE REMINICK ON MAKING MUSIC KIDS (AND PARENTS) LOVE

    Noshing With Dave Reminick – July 2, 2026 Creator, Fun Intended What happens when an award-winning composer stops writing for adults and starts creating music for kids? According to Dave Reminick, the answer is freedom, imagination, and a whole lot of fun. Watch Full Podcast Video This week on “Ira’s Everything Bagel,” Ira sits down with award-winning composer, educator, musician, and children’s recording artist Dave Reminick—better known by his playful alter ego, DadJoke—to discuss his delightfully unconventional debut family album, Fun Intended: Weird Music for Weird Kids. Dave shares how the COVID pandemic unexpectedly led him into the world of children’s music, why writing for young audiences became more creatively fulfilling than composing for adults, and how embracing his own “inner weirdness” unlocked an entirely new artistic path. The conversation explores the remarkable differences between the minds of children and adults, the lasting influence of Mr. Rogers, the origins of his band Paper Mice, and why humor—especially dad jokes—became such an important part of both his music and his identity. Dave also offers thoughtful insights into one of today’s hottest topics: artificial intelligence and creativity. He explains why he believes art should always remain a deeply human conversation—one person connecting authentically with another. Whether you’re a parent, educator, musician, or simply someone who believes creativity should never lose its sense of play, this entertaining and thought-provoking conversation reminds us that sometimes the best way to connect with the world is to embrace your wonderfully weird side. If you’ve ever wondered what inspires truly original artists—or why embracing your inner child may be the secret to great creativity—you won’t want to miss this conversation. ABOUT DAVE: Dave Reminick, who lives with his family in Oak Park, Illinois, grew up in East Northport, Long Island. After high school, he attended Oberlin College and Conservatory, earning two degrees: a BA in Psychology and a BM in Saxophone Performance. Dave then earned two concurrent Masters degrees at the University of Michigan: an MA in Music Theory and an MM in Saxophone Performance. Finally, he pursued doctoral studies at Northwestern University, where he earned a DMA in Composition. Dave spent nearly 20 years teaching university-level music theory, composition, and saxophone while also composing and performing professionally as a saxophonist. He has also spent nearly 20 years as singer/guitarist/co-songwriter for the Chicago post-punk band Paper Mice. New Music Box called his adult compositions “bracing, original, and often jaw-dropping.” David Reminick          Website Watch the full Podcast Video iframe class="video" src=" https://www.youtube.com/embed/SbLb3OlYDo0?"YouTube video player

  5. Jun 25

    CANNABIS FOR SENIORS: BETTER SLEEP, LESS PAIN, AND IMPROVED QUALITY OF LIFE?

    Noshing With Dr. Peter Grinspoon  Author, Aging Well with Cannabis: Feel Better, Sleep Better, and Live Better with Marijuana and CBD Can cannabis help people age better? What are the real benefits—and the real risks? And why do so many misconceptions about marijuana still persist? Watch Full Podcast Video This week on “Ira’s Everything Bagel,” Ira sits down with Dr. Peter Grinspoon, physician, educator, and author of Aging Well with Cannabis: Feel Better, Sleep Better, and Live Better with Marijuana and CBD. As the son of legendary cannabis advocate Dr. Lester Grinspoon, Peter grew up with a unique perspective on one of the most controversial and misunderstood substances in modern medicine. During this fascinating conversation, Dr. Grinspoon discusses his father’s influential role in the cannabis legalization movement, the myths and misinformation that continue to cloud public understanding, and why he believes education—not ideology—is the key to making informed decisions about cannabis use. Peter explains why he rarely recommends smoking cannabis, favoring edibles and tinctures instead, and explores the often-blurred line between recreational and medical marijuana. He also discusses why many physicians still lack adequate training in medical cannabis, despite growing patient interest and expanding research. The conversation delves into cannabis’s potential benefits for older adults, including pain management, improved sleep, reduced isolation, and enhanced quality of life. Peter addresses concerns about cognitive effects, addiction, and safety, offering a balanced, evidence-based perspective that neither exaggerates the benefits nor ignores the risks. Ira and Peter also explore the history of cannabis prohibition, the role of addiction psychiatry, the growing body of neutral scientific research, and why many oncologists now support cannabis use as a complementary option for patients undergoing cancer treatment. Whether you’re curious about CBD, considering medical cannabis, caring for an aging loved one, or simply interested in the evolving science behind marijuana, this episode provides thoughtful insights from one of the field’s most respected voices. ABOUT PETER GRINSPOON: Peter Grinspoon, M.D., is a primary care physician and a board-certified addiction specialist at Massachusetts General Hospital, as well as an Instructor in Medicine at Harvard Medical School. He has 25 years of experience specializing in addiction treatment and cannabis medicine. A popular speaker frequently featured in the national media, Dr. Grinspoon discusses topics such as cannabis, addiction, and physician health. His private practice provides comprehensive addiction and recovery coaching, cannabis education, and patient certification (available in MA only). As an addiction coach, he offers extensive support to individuals and families at all stages of addiction and recovery. Peter Grinspoon, M.D. Website Peter Grinspoon, M.D. Facebook Peter Grinspoon, M.D. Instagram Peter Grinspoon, M.D. LinkedIn Peter Grinspoon, M.D. X Peter Grinspoon, M.D. YouTube Watch the full Podcast Video iframe class="video" src=" https://www.youtube.com/embed/0SmB7UiaS8w?si=DQS_2NmiFzE4Pe8X" title="YouTube video player" title="YouTube video player

  6. Jun 18

    SHATTERING THE MIRROR: ONE WOMAN'S POWERFUL PATH TO HEALING

    Noshing With Lena Fein – June 18, 2026 Author, Shattering the Mirror: One Woman’s Journey of Healing This week on “Ira’s Everything Bagel,” Ira welcomes Lena Fein, author of Shattering the Mirror: One Woman’s Journey of Healing, for a moving conversation about surviving childhood abuse, confronting painful family truths, and discovering the transformative power of forgiveness. Watch Full Podcast Video Lena shares what inspired her to write her memoir and how her father’s death became the catalyst for finally telling her story. She discusses growing up with a mother who emotionally and physically abused her children while concealing that behavior from their father, leaving each daughter feeling isolated and alone. During the conversation, Lena reflects on a profound shift that occurred near the end of her mother’s life. Although her mother’s words had long carried anger and criticism, Lena discovered something unexpected when illness silenced her voice: compassion and regret communicated through her eyes. That realization began a ten-year journey of healing and self-discovery. Lena explains how uncovering her authentic self allowed her to become more grounded, develop deeper relationships, establish healthy boundaries, and embrace living in the present moment. She also discusses her sisters’ reactions to the book and why she believes that forgiveness—not forgetting, but freeing oneself—is essential to healing. This is a powerful and inspiring episode about resilience, family dynamics, self-awareness, and finding peace after pain. Topics Discussed: Childhood emotional and physical abuse Family secrets and dysfunction Writing a memoir of healing The impact of parental relationships Setting healthy boundaries Living in the present moment The meaning of forgiveness Rebuilding relationships Personal growth and self-discovery Finding strength through storytelling ABOUT LENA: Lena Fein lives in San Francisco, the city of her birth. After receiving a master’s degree in engineering from UC Berkeley, she enjoyed a successful career in high tech and founded a non-profit that funded health and education projects in at-risk communities around the globe. Now retired, Lena enjoys the arts in all their forms, including painting, singing, dancing, and writing. Currently, Lena is often seen taking long walks by the bay and hugging her grandbabies. Her memoir, “Shattering the Mirror” is about her quest to confront her life and see through the distortions of her traumatic childhood. Now in her late sixties, Lena lives with more freedom, clarity, and love than she ever imagined. The book is really about the truth that healing is possible at any age — and that wholeness is priceless. Shattering The Mirror             Website Lena Fein                                Facebook Lena Fein                                Instagram Watch the full Podcast Video iframe class="video" src=" https://www.youtube.com/embed/OikBvcXAJKI?si=gOvBANteQWCXRGwl" title=" title="YouTube video player" title="YouTube video player

  7. Jun 11

    FROM TEA TO TRIUMPH: RON RUBIN’S LESSONS IN LEADERSHIP

    Noshing With Ron Rubin – June 11, 2026 Author, Gold in Your Backyard: Lessons in Life, Leadership and the Power of a Dream What if the greatest treasure in your life isn’t money, but the wisdom, relationships, and dreams waiting to be discovered right in your own backyard? Watch Full Podcast Video Ron Rubin, author of Gold in Your Backyard: Lessons in Life, Leadership and the Power of a Dream, joins Ira for an inspiring conversation about success, leadership, mentorship, and living a life of purpose. In this episode of Ira’s Everything Bagel, Ron shares why making money alone is never enough, the importance of finding—and keeping—a mentor, and the invaluable lessons he’s learned during his remarkable 54-year business career. He discusses the three keys to success taught by his current mentor—customer satisfaction, employee satisfaction, and cash flow—and explains how he built and operated businesses with no debt. Ron also reflects on purchasing The Republic of Tea in 1994, reveals the importance of the Five P’s (“Pre-Plan-Prevents-Poor-Performance”), and explains why “if you’re on time, you’re late.” Along the way, he offers practical advice for younger generations, including the value of buying term insurance early, writing handwritten thank-you notes, and assembling the right team. Ron also shares what inspired him to write Gold in Your Backyard and why pursuing your dreams can lead to a richer, more meaningful life than money alone can provide. ABOUT RON: Ron Rubin has spent more than five decades building iconicbeverage brands and giving back to the communities and industries he loves. Ron beganhis career at his family’s business, Central Wholesale Liquor Co. Then in 1994, hepurchased The Republic of Tea, which has become one ofthe most beloved tea brands inthe United States. In 2011, he acquired River Road Family Vineyards and Winery inSonoma County. Under Ron’s leadership, the winery has become known for its quality andcommitment to sustainability as a Certified B Corporation. Ron has also championed philanthropy and education. In 2017, he provided seedfunding to digitize The Maynard Amerine Wine Label and Menu Collection at UC Davis.That same year, he founded the Trained for Saving Lives program in collaboration with theAmerican Red Cross and ZOLL Medical Corporation, underwriting the cost of AED unitsfor wineries and training winery staff in CPR, AED use, and first aid. More than 450wineries have joined the program. Ron currently serves as President of the Board of theSonoma State University Wine Business Institute. He has received an Honorary Doctoratein Humane Letters from Sonoma State University and the American Red Cross Presidential Award for Excellence. Ron was also honored as Culver Academies 2025Graduate of the Year. The award is given annually to a graduate who is highly respected intheir personal and professional endeavors and who has made a significant contribution to society.  Book   Website Ron     LinkedIn Watch the full Podcast Video iframe class="video" src=" https://www.youtube.com/embed/2uX4B3lw5Fw?si=SoxdHCk5GeunYnPo" title=" title="YouTube video player" title="YouTube video player

  8. Jun 4

    THE REMARKABLE LIFE OF RODDY MCDOWALL: BEHIND THE HOLLYWOOD LEGEND

    Noshing With Samuel Garza Bernstein – June 4, 2026 Author, Roddy McDowall: An Actor’s Life — From “How Green Was My Valley” to “Lassie” to “Planet of the Apes” What happens when a lifelong admirer gains access to decades of never-before-explored archives? The result is a fascinating look at one of Hollywood’s most beloved and enduring stars. This week on “Ira’s Everything Bagel,” Ira sits down with author Samuel Garza Bernstein to discuss his acclaimed biography, “Roddy McDowall: An Actor’s Life — From ‘How Green Was My Valley’ to ‘Lassie’ to ‘Planet of the Apes.’” Samuel reveals how an agent’s suggestion sparked the project and why he “kind of grew up wanting to be Roddy McDowall.” He shares how McDowall’s distinctive personality, lingering British accent, and remarkable career made him unlike anyone else in Hollywood. Watch Full Podcast Video The conversation explores Samuel’s discovery of McDowall’s extensive personal archives at Boston University—carefully indexed and sealed until 25 years after the actor’s death. Remarkably, the collection was opened just six months before Samuel began his research, providing unprecedented insight into McDowall’s life and legacy. Bernstein discusses McDowall’s relentless activity and creativity right up until the end of his life, his legendary social gatherings designed to make every guest feel special, and the surprising normalcy and openness of his personal relationships. The episode also examines McDowall’s impact as a child actor during World War II, his passion for history and film preservation, and his close friendship with legendary playwright and performer Noel Coward. Samuel shares why researching the book proved especially challenging, the mystery of films that survive but remain unavailable to the public, and what made McDowall such a gifted performer. At the heart of their discussion is a timeless lesson from McDowall himself: great acting comes from being fully present in the moment. This engaging conversation offers a rare look at one of Hollywood’s most beloved actors and the lasting influence he continues to have on film history. ABOUT SAMUEL: Samuel Garza Bernstein is a Stonewall Book Award-winning author, screenwriter, and playwright. His most recent book, Cesar Romero: The Joker Is Wild, was a finalist for Foreword Magazine Best Biography of 2025. He was the co-showrunner of the third season of “After Forever (now streaming on Amazon)” and has written the fourth season, scheduled to go into production at the end of the year. Releasing Roddy McDowall: An Actor’s Life during Pride Month is especially meaningful to Garza Bernstein, whose work consistently brings LGBTQ+ lives and legacies into the mainstream conversation. He and husband Ronald Shore have been together for more than 30 years and split their time between Porto, Portugal, and Los Angeles, California. Samuel Garza Bernstein         Website Samuel Garza Bernstein         Facebook Samuel Garza Bernstein         Instagram Samuel Garza Bernstein         LinkedIn Samuel Garza Bernstein         Vimeo Watch the full Podcast Video iframe class="video" src=" https://www.youtube.com/embed/AUvbrFpIvLI?si=Zea_5ag8AVQwQEp9" title="YouTube video player" title="YouTube video player

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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Discover Ira’s Everything Bagel, a blend of US arts and culture. Schmeared with podcasts rich in ideas worth spreading, as well as captivating stories.

Information

  • Creator
    Ira David Sternberg
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    200
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © COPYRIGHT 2012-2024 IDS CREATIVE COMMUNICATIONS, INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
  • Show Website
    Ira's Everything Bagel