Nearly two decades after first meeting on Montreal's media scene, journalist Jennifer Campbell recently sat down with Sophie Grégoire Trudeau for a candid holiday season conversation at the Four Seasons Hotel Montréal. The discussion, held on Friday, December 12, 2025, covered her bestselling book, her advocacy work, and a potential future chapter back in her hometown.
From First Lady to Bestselling Author and Advocate
Sophie Grégoire Trudeau has transformed from a well-known media personality into a global figure, having served as Canada's "first lady" and now a bestselling author and public speaker. Her book, Closer Together: Knowing Ourselves, Loving Each Other, blends memoir with interviews from mental health and wellness leaders. She has also championed numerous causes, including Sheena's Place, Nature Canada, and Plan International Canada's Because I Am a Girl project, while serving as the Canadian Mental Health Association's first national volunteer.
Reflecting on her journey, she described reaching several pivot points—moving through public life, motherhood, separation, and into a new professional chapter. "At a certain point, it became clear I wanted to share," she said. "Emotional literacy should belong to everyone." Her goal with the book's unique format was to translate complex science into accessible, relatable conversations for readers.
A Montreal Homecoming on the Horizon?
When asked about the possibility of moving back to Montreal, Grégoire Trudeau offered a tantalizing, "You never know!" She expressed deep affection for the city, citing Mount Royal as her go-to spot for cherished memories with her children. She also enjoys discovering small local coffee shops and wellness spaces, like yoga studios, that allow her to slow down and recalibrate.
Her holiday traditions are firmly rooted in family. "I really like a full house," she shared, describing gatherings with cousins that involve outdoor activities like sledding, skating, and snowball fights. She also maintains a daily ritual of setting intentions with candles and music at breakfast, a practice she amplifies during the festive season.
Combating Loneliness and Fostering Connection
Addressing the modern loneliness epidemic, Grégoire Trudeau emphasized the importance of vulnerability and authentic connection. She suggested practical steps: creating moments for real, small connections and embracing intentional solitude to listen to one's body and emotions.
"Loneliness comes from disconnection, from not being able to show vulnerability, authenticity or the truth of what we feel," she explained. She also advocates for spending time in nature as a simple reset for the mind and body, even on days when motivation is low.
One of the most poignant moments from her book tour was at her Vancouver launch with trauma expert Dr. Gabor Maté. "He said, 'This is not a book, but a love letter to the world,' and I started crying because I felt it was true," she recalled. She believes deeply that human connection is the fundamental need for people of all ages, a need that is often unmet in today's society.
Looking Ahead to 2026 with Compassion and Movement
As she looks toward 2026, Sophie Grégoire Trudeau is shifting away from traditional New Year's resolutions. Instead, she focuses on smaller, intentional adjustments. "Meaningful change often comes from smaller, intentional adjustments. When you change how you move through the world, your nervous system, body and heart begin to respond," she said. Her mantra is: "Movement generates movement."
Her work will continue to expand through virtual workshops, interviews, and resources shared on her platforms. She plans to host virtual events every six to eight weeks with experts like relationship specialist Jillian Turecki, starting in February 2026. She will also offer a free monthly newsletter focused on balance and self-awareness.
She leaves readers with a powerful quote from poet David Whyte to carry into the new year: "Innocence is the ability to be found by the world you’re now inhabiting." Her final advice is to "remain human, embrace your discomfort, connect deeply, and never lose hope in the beauty of people and the world around you."
