An Exercise in Uncertainty: Jonathan Gluck’s Journey Through Illness, Hope, and Work

What happens when life’s greatest uncertainty becomes your daily reality and how do you find meaning, connection, and resilience along the way? In this episode, acclaimed writer and editor Jonathan Gluck shares his powerful story of living with incurable cancer, revealing intimate lessons on hope, control, and what it truly means to keep moving forward. Don’t miss this raw, deeply human conversation with Dr. Bobbi Wegner that will stay with you long after you listen.

Jonathan Gluck is a writer, editor, and the author of An Exercise in Uncertainty: A Memoir of Illness and Hope. With a career spanning years at New York Magazine and Vogue, and bylines in The New York Times, The Washington Post, and more, Jonathan brings a unique perspective shaped by over two decades living with an incurable cancer diagnosis he received at age 38. His work explores how to find meaning, hope, and resilience amid profound uncertainty, offering insight not just for those facing illness, but for anyone navigating life’s unpredictable challenges.

Below are the key takeaways from this episode:

• Uncertainty is Universal: Jonathan Gluck's experience living with incurable cancer highlights how uncertainty affects not just individuals, but also teams and organizations.
• Storytelling as Healing: Sharing personal narratives—like Jonathan Gluck's memoir—can help people process difficult experiences and connect with others facing similar challenges.
• Value of Connection: Strong support systems significantly improve both mental and physical health during times of crisis or change.
• No Perfect Way to Cope: The episode underscores that coping with uncertainty is tough for everyone; self-compassion and acceptance are key.
• Purpose Through Adversity: Jonathan Gluck found meaning and agency by sharing his story, supporting others, and focusing on what matters most in life.

Todays guest, Jonathan Gluck, can be found online at:

Book: https://www.randomhousebooks.com/books/760582/C3/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-gluck-b32b6898/

Your host, Dr. Bobbi Wegner, can be found online at:

Groops: https://www.joingroops.com/

Harvard Extension School Faculty Spotlight: https://youtu.be/zwLai-lu-pk?si=GpKNhtxVvTrS3-pu

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobbiwegner/