About Bruce Feiler

Life Transitions and the Nonlinear Life

Bruce Feiler redefines life's trajectory as 'nonlinear,' rejecting the myth of a straight path in favor of embracing frequent disruptions he calls 'lifequakes.'[2][3][5][7][9] These shake-ups, from cancer and financial collapse to family crises, require three flexible stages—pause, inventory, and integrate—regardless of order.[3] In his book Life Is in the Transitions and The Life Story Project, he analyzes 500 stories to show how people rebuild with purpose.[2][7][8] Personal anecdotes, like his 2008 bone cancer diagnosis amid raising twin daughters, illustrate transformation through storytelling.[2][11]

Building Resilient Families

Families thrive not by chance but through deliberate practices like Agile-inspired family meetings, open communication, and shared rituals.[1][9][12] Feiler's The Secrets of Happy Families promotes discussing values, avoiding taboos, and creating safe spaces.[1] He shares how his twins, Eden and Tybee, influenced his cancer journey, emphasizing adaptability.[11]

The Power of Rituals

Rituals bind society and individuals, from family history collection to modern gatherings.[6][13][14] In A Time to Gather, Feiler argues rituals 'created the world and can save us,' acting as 'the glue of society.'[13][14] They foster positive memories and values in families.[1][6]

Storytelling and Meaning-Making

Collecting personal and family stories unlocks purpose.[6][7][8] Projects like 'Tell Me Your Story' and The Life Story Project invite sharing life shapes for insight.[7][8] Feiler's Substack, The Nonlinear Life, delivers these lessons to tens of thousands.[4][5][10]

Personal Journey and Expertise

A TED speaker with over four million views, Feiler hosts TV, writes blogs, and keynotes on family, work, and transitions.[9][12] His seven bestsellers include Council of Dads and works on walking and dining.[9] Post-cancer, he shifted to studying transitions.[2][11]