How Long Gone 890. - Zoe Dubno
Jan 9, 2026
Zoe Dubno, a New York-based writer whose debut novel, Happiness & Love, has just hit the shelves, shares her journey from Oberlin to Rutgers MFA. The conversation touches on quirky cultural moments, including Spencer Pratt's political aspirations and the debate over fashion magazines potentially serving as money-laundering schemes. Zoe recounts her formative experiences at Dimes, her cautious relationship with cars, and the ups and downs of living in NYC. Plus, a humorous twist on salad dressing as a marker of intimacy!
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College Path Shaped By Zoom MFA
- Zoe Dubno described attending Oberlin College and later Rutgers MFA (mostly on Zoom) as formative for her writing career.
- She clarified she did her fiction MFA at Rutgers Newark largely remotely during COVID.
Late License, Practical Zipcar Choice
- Zoe only recently got her driver's license at age 30 and uses Zipcar for now.
- She prefers Zipcar for low-risk driving and high coverage until she feels confident driving others' cars.
NYC Lifestyle Demands Constant Convenience
- Zoe argued living in New York creates a constant need for immediate access and convenience.
- She called New York living an unhealthy but necessary mindset tied to proximity to services and supplies.
