Joan Lunden had the entire Today show audience reminiscing about the good old days when she made a nostalgic appearance on the morning talk show recently! This beloved journalist, who once graced our screens as a familiar face, brought back a flood of memories with her warm and genuine presence.
After her March 22 segment, Joan, now 73, shared a delightful video on her Instagram page capturing a sweet moment with her former co-star, Al Roker. In the clip, she could be seen playfully adjusting Al's stylish purple suit collar while exchanging light-hearted banter with him. It was a reminder of the camaraderie that once defined their time together on the show.
In the post accompanying the video, Joan wrote, "Catching up with pal Al Roker who looked dashing in head-to-toe purple!" It’s a touching nod to the connection they still share, even after all these years. For those who remember Joan's tenure as a correspondent on the show, this moment was more than just a reunion—it was a celebration of friendship and shared history.
Read also:Erin And Ben Napier Talk About Their Future With Hgtv
Joan Lunden Talks Sobriety and Success with Daughter Jamie
During her visit to Today, Joan was joined by her eldest daughter, Jamie Krauss Hess, for a heartfelt conversation about Jamie’s latest project, "The Gratitudeology Podcast." This podcast series dives deep into personal growth, and in its very first episode, Joan herself joins her daughter to explore Jamie’s journey toward sobriety and success. Joan admitted that this was a topic they hadn’t discussed openly in over two decades.
Dylan Dreyer naturally inquired why such an important subject had been left unspoken for so long. Joan revealed, “It was like the elephant in the room. We had never really addressed it.” She went on to explain how Jamie’s early achievements—like her success as an international equestrian jumper—made it challenging to confront the issues at hand. “I guess because she turned her life around and had such amazing success,” Joan confessed. “By the way, she was successful as a kid, which is why it took me so long to step in and say, ‘You’re going to get help.’”
The Elephant in the Room: Why Parents Avoid Tough Conversations
Joan expanded on the challenges many parents face today when dealing with their children’s struggles. “I think that’s a big problem for parents nowadays—they’re afraid to ask their kids tough questions,” she noted. “They almost want to put on blinders and avoid seeing what’s really going on. But you have to be vigilant. It’s okay to snoop. Check their rooms, look at their phones—do whatever it takes to ensure they’re safe.”
Jamie Offers Advice for Families Battling Addiction
Craig Melvin then turned the spotlight on Jamie, asking her what advice she would give to families navigating similar challenges. Jamie responded with heartfelt wisdom. “My advice is to speak up. We are only as sick as our secrets,” she emphasized. “Walking through the fear of taking action is crucial. I remember picking up the phone dozens of times to call my mom for help but chickening out every time. If someone can help guide you through that fear and support you in reaching out, it makes all the difference.”
If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
