Hal Rubenstein on How to Be a Happy Grownup, Why Learning Something New Every Day Is Essential, and the Power of Having an Educated Opinion

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I probably should have started this interview asking Hal Rubenstein what he can’t do. From reading at the age of three, teaching high school English, landing multiple magazine writing jobs out of college, owning his own successful catering business, being named the first men’s style editor of the New York Times, and defining high/low fashion as the fashion director of In Style, all while being a renowned food and fashion critic, author, and on-air personality, Hal has done it all. Hal’s passion is learning what he doesn’t know and hasn’t done. His upcoming mission is celebrating life after 50 with The Happy Grownup.

This episode is one big life lesson. Hal preaches why cancel culture has gone too far, the merits of acquiring joy each day, and why you should focus on one thing you can accomplish today. He warns about the dangers of following someone else’s opinion and why you’re being judged just like a book jacket no matter where you go. Hal’s pro tip: dress like a best seller. Most importantly, Hal is banishing aging gracefully and replacing it with aging with excitement. He’s just getting started, and after you listen to this episode, you will also be.