Anne Lamott is a progressive political activist and writer, the bestselling author of such books as Bird by Bird, Travelling Mercies, Operating Instructions, Plan B, and her latest, Almost Everything: Notes on Hope. We’re such fans of Anne Lamott that we’ve decided to devote an entire episode of The Upgrade to her.
We talk to Anne about almost everything, including but not limited to how to deal with the news cycle, having compassion for our small upsets in the face of large tragedies, how help can be a form of control, comparing our insides to other people’s outsides, and the horrors of visiting the DMV.
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In This Episode
Introduction (0:00 – 3:39)
In which Alice and Melissa discuss why Anne Lamott means so much to them.
The Interview (4:47 – 30:10)
We learn that Anne Lamott is a hugger. But that’s not all we talk about! Also discussed: Her faith, the collective mental state of her book tour audiences, coming to terms with awful news while still living your life, how the practice of recovery helps her with deal with a sometimes “toxic” state of mind, what gives her hope, how each of her books are a love letter to specific people, how often jerks win, and much, much more.
Person, Place, Thing (31:22 – 35:56)
We ask Anne Lamott three questions: Who has had the biggest influence on her, where she feels most herself, and the thing she can’t live without.
Upgrade of the Week (36:05 – 40:38)
Every week we talk about one tiny thing that’s making a big difference in our lives. This week we discuss the difference a night guard makes; Anne’s increasing technological competence (her son barely has to help her any more); and the simple joys of a large water bottle at work.
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