Overview

Can a single sentence change your life? Gretchen Rubin believes it can.

Join #1 New York Times bestselling author Gretchen Rubin (The Happiness Project, Better Than Before) as she distills the wisdom of a lifetime into concise, thought-provoking aphorisms — truths so simple yet profound they can shift your perspective in an instant. In conversation with Emmy Award-winning journalist and critically-acclaimed author Allison Gilbert, Rubin shares insights from her upcoming book Secrets of Adulthood, a pocket-sized treasury of clarity and inspiration designed for anyone navigating life’s transitions — or simply seeking more satisfaction in the everyday.

From “What we do every day matters more than what we do once in a while” to “A quest is more fun than a jaunt,” Rubin’s sharp, wry observations resonate across generations, offering both guidance and delight. Drawing on the time-honored literary form of the aphorism — practiced by thinkers from Marcus Aurelius to Oscar Wilde — Rubin explores why a well-crafted phrase at just the right moment can illuminate the path forward.

Curated and hosted by Allison Gilbert, Connected Lives is 92NY’s signature conversation series exploring how we build meaningful relationships in today’s world. In this engaging and thought-provoking discussion, Rubin and Gilbert delve into the small but powerful truths that help us navigate love, work, friendships, and purpose — with humor, wisdom, and grace.

Whether you’re embarking on a new chapter or simply looking for fresh perspective, this conversation will leave you inspired to embrace life’s complexities with greater clarity — and maybe even a touch of joy.

Connected Lives is inspired by the remarkable life of Dr. Ruth K. Westheimer and her final book, The Joy of Connections, co-authored with Gilbert and Pierre Lehu. The beloved American icon would have turned 97 on June 4, 2025.

A reception and book signing will follow the event.