I spent an awful lot of my life underestimating myself and, as a result, not exceeding my own expectations.

I probably am more shy than people realize. But I'm shy when I leave a studio and I am just myself.

I had had some months of depression. Not serious enough to keep me from work. So, I guess you'd call that a mild depression.

I am not one of the great journalists of my time.

When I was diagnosed with bipolar disorder the year I turned 50, it was certainly a shock. But as a journalist, knowing a little bit about a lot of things, I didn't suffer the misconception that depression was all in my head or a mark of poor character. I knew it was a disease, and, like all diseases, was treatable.

The years after 50 can be a time of great productivity, meaningful work, pleasure, creativity, and innovation. It's a huge opportunity.

My guess is that people look at me and project their own values - importance of family, ego is healthy but not the biggest thing. I don't know. I can't explain my popularity.