Surviving the Unsurvivable: Optimistic Realism with Jonathon Gluck

In this episode of The Science of Self, we welcome Jonathan Gluck, author of 'Exercise In Uncertainty.' Jonathan shares his journey as a longtime magazine editor and cancer patient, navigating life with an incurable but treatable form of cancer. He offers insights into his career at New York Magazine and Vogue, the pressures of journalism, and the stories he's encountered. Jonathan delves into how uncertainty impacts mental health, coping mechanisms, and the life lessons he's learned. This heartfelt and insightful conversation touches on hope, spirituality, practical advice for self-improvement, and the power of acceptance in the face of adversity. Tune in for an inspiring episode on resilience and personal growth.

00:00 Welcome and Guest Introduction

00:24 Jonathan's Career in Journalism

05:13 Life as a Cancer Patient

10:22 Insights from Jonathan's Book

11:26 Coping with Uncertainty

14:41 Mindfulness and Life Lessons

20:43 Optimistic Realism

22:32 Living Mindfully Through Difficult Times

23:31 Coping with Recurring Cancer Diagnoses

23:58 The Stages of Grief

28:14 Dealing with Anger and Bargaining

30:15 Depression and Acceptance

33:19 The Power of Hope and Spirituality

39:16 Supporting a Loved One with Cancer

41:57 Practical Advice and Final Thoughts

https://www.amazon.com/Exercise-Uncertainty-Memoir-Illness-Hope/dp/0593735781

https://www.audible.com/pd/An-Exercise-in-Uncertainty-Audiobook/B0DJHBLVQ6

https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/authors/2320094/jonathan-gluck/#

https://lithub.com/the-craft-of-this-mortal-coil-jonathan-gluck-on-writing-a-different-cancer-story/