Angela Cohan
Angela Cohan is a Los Angeles–based author, journalist, and cultural storyteller whose work bridges food, travel, and identity. As a longtime contributing writer at Cultural Daily, Angela has spent over a decade crafting essays and features that explore cultural heritage and artistic expression through the lens of daily life. Her work has appeared in respected outlets such as The Jewish Journal, FR&D, Public Poetry Series, and Cultural Weekly. She began her editorial journey as editor of Chashm Andaaz, where she honed her narrative voice and commitment to nuanced storytelling.
With nearly three decades of experience as a freelance writer and editor, Angela is skilled in both fiction and nonfiction—including blogging, journalism, essay writing, and media relations. Her nonfiction book Icons of Fashion Design showcases her attention to historical detail and brand narrative. She writes regularly on Substack and channels her extensive storytelling ability into work that reflects her deep connection to cultural history, food traditions, and community.
Angela is also a mentor with PEN America and Young Storytellers, where she supports aspiring writers and reinforces her belief in creative expression as a tool for empowerment. Originally from a Persian Jewish family, she brings a rich understanding of intergenerational memory, language, and tradition to her writing, with fluency in relevant cultural contexts and a perspective that resonates across diverse communities. As a multi-disciplinary voice in today’s media landscape, Angela continues to blend personal experience with literary insight—inviting readers to connect with heritage through personal stories and shared traditions.
• UCLA – BS, Psychology
• UCLA – MS, Journalism
• UCLA – MS, Mass Communications
• Young Storytellers
• Phi Beta Kappa
• Pen America
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the incredible women who came before me—especially my mother. As an immigrant forced into marriage at a young age, she still managed to instill in me a deep love for education, literature, and the power of perseverance. Watching her navigate immense challenges with grace and grit shaped my own path, personally and professionally. Even now, as she moves through retirement and memories fade, I find strength in reminding her—and myself—of the dreams she once had. Her resilience continues to be my compass, guiding me to push boundaries and honor the legacy of women who never had the opportunities we’re creating today.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received was to treat writing not just as a hobby, but as a serious and disciplined practice. I was encouraged to carve out dedicated time for my craft every day and to surround myself with a supportive community that understands the challenges and rewards of this work. That guidance transformed how I approach my career—it taught me that consistency, commitment, and the right environment are essential to turning passion into lasting success.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the writing industry is simple but powerful: give yourself permission to write and start calling yourself a writer, even if it feels intimidating at first. Don’t wait for the “perfect” moment—capture your ideas whenever and wherever they come, whether that means waking up early or writing late into the night. Overcoming self-doubt, like imposter syndrome, is part of the journey, but the more you commit to showing up for your work, the more confident and authentic your voice will become. Trust in your story and your process—it’s your unique perspective that the world needs.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
In my work exploring thyroid issues and body image, one of the biggest challenges—and opportunities—is breaking through the stigma and misinformation that surround women’s health, especially when it comes to how we see ourselves. Thyroid problems are incredibly common, yet they’re often misunderstood or overlooked, which directly impacts women’s confidence and self-image. Through my new nonfiction project, I’m committed to shedding light on these hidden struggles by sharing expert insights and real stories, particularly focusing on teenagers who are navigating these complex issues in a world saturated with unrealistic media portrayals. This is a pivotal moment to empower women with accurate information and encourage a healthier, more critical conversation around body image—something I believe can transform lives and shift cultural norms for the better.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
At the heart of my work and personal life are the values of connection, legacy, and authenticity. I believe deeply in the power of storytelling to preserve culture and family history—especially through food, which is such a meaningful expression of identity. Passing down traditions, language, and recipes is not just about honoring the past; it’s about building a bridge to future generations so they understand where they come from and feel rooted in their heritage. I also value generosity and community, as so much of what I do relies on the willingness of loved ones to share their stories and wisdom. Above all, I strive to live and work with intention and respect, recognizing that these values shape the way we honor our families and ourselves every day.