When we stumbled upon Joni Sinclair’s powerful essay, “Being Thin Didn’t Make Me Happy, But Being ‘Plus Size’ Does,” we knew we had to sit down with her for an interview. Joni passionately asserts, “Happiness isn’t contingent on being thin, and being plus size doesn’t equate to being sad.” She shares her journey of striving to maintain a size 4 physique and the liberation she discovered when she abandoned her grueling exercise routine in favor of embracing her body as it is—“unapologetically plus size.”
Since the article was published on a popular parenting site, she has made waves on platforms from Good Morning America to The Ellen Show, and has been highlighted in major publications like The Guardian and The New York Times. To delve deeper into Joni’s insights, we invited this mother of five and dedicated nurse to participate in our Mid Q&A series. (Stay tuned for her upcoming contributions about parenting on our blog!)
Mid Q&A with Joni Sinclair
- What’s a skill you wish to master?
I’d love to learn how to play the guitar. My dad passed down his guitar to me when I turned 30, but I’m still struggling with it. Definitely not giving up, though! - What’s a travel destination on your bucket list?
My husband and I are eager to visit France. It’s long overdue and needs to happen soon. - Who deserves a thank-you note from you?
I owe my high school German teacher, Clara Meyer, a note. She sadly passed away from breast cancer a few years back, but her unwavering belief in my potential meant the world to me, even if I didn’t realize it back then. - What were you doing at age 12 on a Friday night?
I was likely trying on hand-me-down formal dresses from my older cousin, pretending to be a star like Alyssa Milano or Brooke Shields, while munching on Doritos and Ding Dongs. - Who did you create your first mixtape for, and what was on it?
I can’t recall his name—maybe it was Daniel—but I distinctly remember including “I Just Called to Say I Love You” by Stevie Wonder and a few tracks from New Edition like “Cool It Now.” My mixtape skills improved over time, moving beyond just hitting record on the radio. - What childhood story do you wish people would stop retelling at gatherings?
For some reason, everyone loves to bring up the time I accidentally got a bean stuck up my nose. I never told anyone and just sneezed it out later. Embarrassing doesn’t even begin to cover it! - What advice would you give your 25-year-old self?
Seek treatment for your bipolar disorder. It doesn’t define you, nor does it mean you’ll follow in your mother’s footsteps. Accepting a diagnosis will drastically enhance your life quality. - What dish do you excel at making?
Cake! I’m a cake aficionado and take great pride in my baking skills. - What’s your motto?
It changes daily! Sometimes it’s “Don’t forget to be AWESOME!” or the timeless, “Be the change you want to see,” which I owe to Gandhi. - Do you have a theme song?
James Taylor’s “Secret of Life” really resonates with me: “Enjoy the passage of time.” - What movie or show uplifts your spirits?
“Love Actually” always restores my faith in humanity.
This article was originally shared years ago, but its messages remain timeless. For more insights on personal growth and parenting, check out this engaging piece on Modern Family Blog. If you’re looking for resources on at-home insemination, Cryobaby offers reputable kits, and Progyny is a fantastic source for pregnancy and fertility information.
In summary, Joni Sinclair’s journey reflects the importance of self-acceptance and the power of embracing one’s body. Her insights are a reminder that happiness is not defined by size but by how we choose to live our lives.
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