Stories - Life Stories
Stories 817 Interviews 51
Our stories are about how people make sense of their own lives, how they can shed light on our lives, and how we are connected to one another, to history, and to the larger human story.
Losing five friends to suicide and navigating personal crisis in midlife
Friendship with Jonas Mekas and bridging generations through community
Jonas Mekas's energy and ability to connect with diverse people
Shared brain cancer diagnosis and memories of Ted Kennedy
Attending Jim Foley's celebration of life and reflecting on his impact
Marriage to David Bale, including the Cherokee ceremony and its later significance
Philosophy of surrounding oneself with admirable and uplifting people
McCain's debating skills, personality, and conduct at the Naval Academy
Tight-knit neighborhood life and community bonds in 1950s America
Meeting future husband Paul through a chance physical therapy appointment in Arizona
“I consider mentoring a process of showing your scars instead of your successes. I've always been awed by how many people resonate when I tell the story of my life. Often it's the first time they've ever told anyone their own story.”
Loretta Ross
Friendship evolution from Teach for America through graduate school years
The role of personal friendships and networks in reaching the presidency
Ben Bradlee's time in Paris as a young journalist after World War II
Friendship, SAT scores, and the path to Harvard on scholarship
Friends' efforts to protect McCain from accumulating demerits near graduation
Family connections and early recognition of Obama's potential
Bradlee's relationship with JFK, Jackie Kennedy, and a family secret
James Foley's first impression of Rye and a meaningful Christmas night in captivity
Growing up surrounded by key figures in the avant-garde film world
Memories of Jonas Mekas' energy and optimism shortly before his death
