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Roger Sedarat

Get ready to be inspired! Join us as we chat with Anastasia Rubis about her debut novel, ORIANA. After 11 years of hard work, she published her first book in her 60s, and we’re betting it’ll be optioned for the big screen.

In ORIANA, Stacey explores the extraordinary life of journalist Oriana Fallac )(description below), and in our conversation, she opens up about perseverance, chasing dreams no matter your age, and shares how Oriana’s fierce determination became a role model for her own tenacity. Whether you’re an aspiring writer, a historical fiction fan, or need a little nudge to follow your dreams, this episode is for you!

We give the book 4 stars!  ⭐⭐⭐⭐

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Episode Summary

Interview with Anastasia Rubis (Stacey)

Introduction

In this episode, hosts Janette and Rachel interview Anastasia Rubis, known as Stacey, the author of ORIANA, a novel about the renowned journalist Oriana Fallaci. The hosts discuss Stacey’s background, her writing journey, and the inspiration behind her debut novel.

Stacey’s Background

  • Early Life: Stacey was born and raised in Queens, New York, until the age of eight, after which her family moved to Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey. She is of Greek descent, being a first-generation American.
  • Education: She graduated from Brown University and later earned a master’s degree in English from Montclair State University.
  • Career Path: Before becoming a writer, Stacey worked in advertising and public relations while pursuing her passion for writing in her free time.

The Writing Journey

  • Initial Writing Experience: Stacey began writing in New York City, contributing to publications like the New York Observer and the New York Times. She faced challenges in the freelance writing world, where acceptance rates were low.
  • Move to Montclair: After living in Manhattan for 14 years, Stacey moved back to New Jersey to be closer to family and chose Montclair for its vibrant cultural scene. She credits her time at Montclair State University and local bookstores for reigniting her passion for writing.

The Creation of ORIANA

  • Inspiration: Stacey’s interest in Oriana Fallaci began when she discovered Fallaci’s novel A Man while on vacation in Greece. This led her to explore Fallaci’s life and work, which she found compelling and inspiring.
  • Writing Process: The journey to publish Oriana took 11 years, during which Stacey faced numerous challenges, including working with multiple agents and navigating the publishing landscape during the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • Publishing Journey: After parting ways with her second agent, Stacey took control of her manuscript and submitted it to small publishers. She eventually found a publisher who appreciated the Italian aspects of her story, leading to the book’s publication.

Themes and Impact

  • Role Models: Stacey emphasizes the importance of having role models and support systems in the writing community. She highlights the need for stories about strong women and the impact they can have on readers.
  • Cultural Significance: The hosts discuss how Oriana Fallaci is a well-known figure in Europe but remains relatively unknown in America, raising questions about the visibility of women’s stories in literature and media.

Conclusion

  • Final Thoughts: Stacey encourages aspiring writers to persevere and not give up on their dreams. She shares her belief that age and environment play significant roles in a writer’s journey.
  • Recommendations: The episode concludes with Stacey recommending local spots in New Jersey, particularly along the Hudson River, and expressing her gratitude for the opportunity to share her story.

Closing Remarks

The hosts thank Stacey for her insights and encourage listeners to read Oriana, highlighting the importance of supporting local authors and bookstores, specifically the Watchung Bookstore in Montclair, NJ.

PROFESSOR WITH A TWO-HOUR COMMUTE –

Roger Sedarat commutes two hours each way from New Jersey to Queens. But his love for his job and his town make it worth it. Enjoy this multi-topic interview with this award-winning poet, professor of literature, poetry, creative writing, and theory at one of New York City’s top-ranked schools for up economic mobility of its students. Enjoy!  Follow Roger on Instagram

00:00:00 Valentine’s Day traditions and accents.
00:10:45 Embrace your unique interests and talents.
00:13:12 Follow your passion in life.
00:18:29 Finding love in unexpected places.
00:23:24 Public education can make a difference.
00:28:31 Education can inspire personal growth.
00:31:08 Long commutes can be challenging.
00:36:15 Opportunity can come unexpectedly.
00:42:09 Haji show captured the insanity.
00:46:31 Love for Montclair grew.
00:54:10 Importance of nature and exploration.
00:57:21 Multiple platforms for podcast promotion.

Exploring the Journey of a Full Professor: A Conversation with Roger Sedarat

Introduction: we delve into the fascinating journey of Roger Sedarat, a full professor and poet. We gain insights into his experiences, his career as a professor, and his unique teaching approach. Join us as we explore the life and perspectives of this remarkable individual.

Section 1: The Journey Begins

  • Growing up in Texas and gravitating towards the arts
  • Discovering a passion for acting and theater in school
  • Pursuing higher education in Austin, Texas

Section 2: Meeting Jeanette and the Path to New York

  • Serendipitous encounter with Jeanette, discovering their shared Iranian heritage
  • Moving to New York City and embarking on new adventures
  • The challenges and joys of starting a relationship and building a life together

Section 3: Becoming a Full Professor

  • Understanding the hierarchy and challenges within academia
  • The significance of achieving the title of full professor
  • The importance of public education and the impact of teaching at Queens College

Section 4: Teaching Philosophy and Classroom Experience

  • Creating a safe space for students to explore their beliefs and ideologies
  • Engaging in critical discussions on topics such as capitalism, religion, and psychoanalysis
  • Encouraging students to challenge societal constructs and think critically about their own agency

Section 5: The Commute and Dedication

  • The daily commute from New Jersey to Queens College
  • Balancing the demands of work and family life
  • The commitment and passion that drives Roger’s dedication to teaching

Conclusion: Roger Sedarat’s journey as a full professor and poet is a testament to the power of education, critical thinking, and self-discovery. Through his unique teaching approach and dedication to his students, he creates an environment where diverse perspectives are valued and explored. As we conclude this blog post, we are inspired by Roger’s commitment to making a difference in the lives of his students and his unwavering passion for his craft.

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