Queer Eye Star Opens Up About Hitting Rock Bottom: Jonathan Van Ness

Jun 19, 2023

Join Jonathan Van Ness, the beloved grooming expert from 'Queer Eye', as he candidly shares his journey from a challenging childhood to fame. He opens up about his struggles with addiction and the chaotic world of sex work, revealing how these experiences shaped his path to self-acceptance. Discussing the rise of transphobia, he emphasizes the need for allyship and awareness. Jonathan also reflects on the therapeutic nature of humor amidst personal loss and the importance of resilience in his quest for authenticity.

Ask episode

AI Snips

Chapters

Books

Transcript

Episode notes

ANECDOTE

Childhood in Rural Illinois

Jonathan Van Ness grew up in rural Illinois, facing challenges as a queer, feminine child.
Despite hardships like bullying and abuse, he found joy in figure skating and gymnastics.

ANECDOTE

College, Addiction, and a Turning Point

Jonathan Van Ness's college experience involved drug addiction and sex work to support it.
Finding a kitten, Bug the First, motivated him to seek a better life.

INSIGHT

Rock Bottom

Hitting rock bottom is often necessary for change, but everyone's bottom looks different.
You don't have to hit the absolute lowest point to start recovering.

Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode

Get the app

A New Earth

Eckhart Tolle

In 'A New Earth,' Eckhart Tolle expands on the ideas presented in his previous book, 'The Power of Now.' He argues that our attachment to the ego is the root of suffering, anger, jealousy, and unhappiness. Tolle provides insights and practical advice on how to awaken to a new state of consciousness, letting go of ego-based thinking and embracing the present moment. The book emphasizes the importance of living in the now, recognizing the interconnectedness of all beings, and finding true fulfillment by aligning with one's inner purpose rather than external roles or material possessions[2][3][5].

The Power of Now

A Guide to Spiritual Enlightenment

Eckhart Tolle

In 'The Power of Now', Eckhart Tolle discusses the importance of living in the present moment to achieve spiritual enlightenment. The book draws from various spiritual traditions, including Buddhism and mysticism, to explain how people's emotional problems are rooted in their identification with their minds. Tolle argues that the present moment is the only truly real time and that past and future are mere mental constructs. He provides methods for relaxation and meditation to help readers anchor themselves in the present, such as avoiding multitasking, spending time in nature, and letting go of worries about the future. The book also introduces concepts like the 'pain-body' and the distinction between one's thoughts and true self, emphasizing the need to recognize and separate from the destructive influence of the mind[2][4][5].

Over the Top

Jonathan van Ness

Jonathan Van Ness's "Over the Top: A Raw Journey to Self-Love" is a deeply personal and moving memoir that chronicles his life journey. The book explores his experiences with childhood trauma, addiction, and his path to self-acceptance and healing. Van Ness shares his struggles with vulnerability and honesty, offering readers a glimpse into his personal growth and transformation. He discusses his experiences with sex work, drug addiction, and HIV, while also celebrating his achievements and the joy he finds in life. The book is a testament to resilience, self-love, and the power of vulnerability.

Inverse Cowgirl

Alicia Roth Weigel

Inverse Cowgirl is a memoir that recounts Alicia Roth Weigel's journey as an intersex activist. The book delves into her experiences with nonconsensual surgeries, her path to self-discovery, and her advocacy work in reclaiming bodily autonomy. Weigel uses her tattoos as a narrative framework to share her story and highlight the importance of visibility for the intersex community.