Episode 23: Ophira Eisenberg and Charles Busch

Episode notes

It’s another episode Go Fact Yourself recorded in New York!

Ophira Eisenberg is used to being on trivia shows as the host of NPR’s Ask Me Another. But here’s the thing: she doesn’t consider herself a trivia buff. Like, at all. That said, she’s chosen topics that she thoroughly understands… and most of them involve being a proud Canadian.

Charles Busch is a Tony-nominated actor, playwright, and drag legend. He’s the creator of the film and play Die, Mommie, Die!, which will soon be produced as a radio show. Even though he’s spent most of his professional career performing in women’s clothing, he still finds some of the clothes a bit uncomfortable… but that’s one of the best parts of being an actor.

In this episode, we’ll learn about street-building materials, fashion, and the undervalued cuisine of Canada.

What’s the difference: The streets of New York

What’s the difference between “cement” and “concrete”?

What’s the difference between a “freeway” and a “highway”?

Areas of Expertise:

Ophira Eisenberg: Canadian Geography, Canadian food, and the film Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark.

Charles Bush: Women’s fashion of 1930’s, The film Rosemary’s Baby, and Bette Davis

Appearing in this episode:

J. Keith van Straaten
Helen Hong
Ophira Eisenberg
Charles Busch

With guest experts:

Marcel Simoneau, owner of the Brooklyn-based Canadian restaurant Up North.

Eugenia Paulicelli, professor and author of the book Fashion under Fascism.

Go Fact Yourself was devised by Jim Newman and J. Keith van Straaten, and produced in collaboration with Maximum Fun. The show was recorded at Caveat in New York City.

Theme Song by Jonathan Green
Maximum Fun’s Senior Producer is Laura Swisher
The show is edited by Julian Burrell.