Jill Martin: Celebrating the Gift of Life
Jill Martin is a multifaceted television personality, fashion expert, and author, best known for her role as a lifestyle contributor on NBC’s "Today" show. Her infectious energy and keen eye for style have made her a beloved figure in the world of entertainment. Beyond her work in front of the camera, Jill is also a bestselling author, with several books on fashion and lifestyle under her belt. She has a knack for making style accessible to all, often sharing insightful advice and chic solutions for modern living. Jill’s personal journey, particularly marked by her recent triumph over cancer, showcases her strength and resilience. Her ability to connect with audiences through her authenticity and candidness makes her truly inspiring.
In 2019, Jill Martin graced the cover of BELLA, capturing hearts with her vibrant spirit and undeniable charisma. Fast forward to 2024, and Jill is once again at the forefront. I, like so many, have been affected by a cancer journey and this time, her story hit differently. It’s a celebration of courage and resilience that resonated deeply with me and one I hope we carry through the holiday season, a time of reflection and gratitude.
I am honored to have Jill Martin return to BELLA, opening up about her transformative journey as a cancer survivor.
Her story is one of hope and determination, embodying the strength of the human spirit in the face of life's most challenging battles. Jill has emerged from this experience with a renewed perspective, eager to inspire others with her story of survival and personal growth.
Grab your sherpa and lean into Jill's journey, exploring the lessons she's learned, the support that lifted her during her fight, and the newfound purpose that leads her into a hopeful future. This candid conversation with Jill is a reminder of the miracles that can happen when courage meets perseverance.
Jill, reflecting on your very first BELLA Magazine cover, you've come full circle. How has your personal and professional journey shifted since then, especially in light of your cancer experience?
That seems like a lifetime ago. It was such an honor to grace the cover of Bella magazine for the first time with all of those incredible people & innovators. It’s interesting, my oncologist told me that many survivors define their lives as “before and after cancer.” I think many people going through trauma can relate to that- the concept of what happened before the “big thing” seems almost like it happened in a prior life. When I look at that cover, as beautiful as it is, it looks like a prior version of me. Not better, not worse, just different. This past year has been beyond earth- shattering for me but one of the silver linings that came out of this is I get to start over in a way. I get to improve on parts of my life that needed improving. Only people, places and things that belong in my life make it into this new version. I get to pick and choose what is important to me and who & what I want to surround myself with. Anything that doesn’t fit into my version of “happy and healthy” has no place in my life anymore. I felt like I had it together prior to cancer but it has really helped put everything into focus. I know what I like and what I don’t like….what I want and don’t want. It is like the blurriness went away.
Your openness about your cancer journey has been uplifting for many. What motivated you to share your story so candidly with the world?
I didn’t feel like there was an option. We share everything on the show: the good, the bad, the ugly, the hard.
I felt, with my platform, I had/have a responsibility to not only raise awareness but to acknowledge other people going through something similar that may not have the ability to share in the way that I can. People ask if it was hard doing it so publicly but honestly, I think it was easier. So many people suffer in silence and fight battles no one knows about. Most people treated me with such empathy and care and knew what I was going through…I didn’t have to live two separate lives which happens to a lot of people who keep their journeys close. Some people don’t have the option to do it or don’t make it public to protect his/her family. I respect any decision someone takes as the trauma is so severe. Whatever works for you and your family is the right way. For me, sharing my journey and helping others has been the light in this darkness that has gotten me through the worst of times.
How has facing cancer impacted your perspective on health and wellness, and what advice would you give to others going through similar challenges?
It is so hard. I can’t sugar coat this one. Cancer in my experience is more powerful than any of us. The physical and mental pain and trauma is hard to articulate. I think about chemotherapy every day. It is part of my life. Some people say over time it changes, but I do not see that for me. It is a part of me… actually, one I am very proud of. I thought the way I handled the past year was/is a reflection of how I was raised. I tried, even when I thought I wouldn’t make it through the day, to act with kindness, grace and gratitude. I saw so many people who were going through something similar whose prognosis was not like mine, it was worse. My heart aches for anyone going through this. I try to be available to talk to people who are months behind me in treatment with the energy I have while still protecting the love I need to give myself. The year after cancer has been harder for me. During surgeries and treatment I was literally just fighting for my life and now I feel like I am picking the pieces up around me. I always say I am a disco ball…all survivors are to me: a million pieces somehow put beautifully back together. My advice for anyone going through cancer or any trauma: ask for help when you need it; concentrate on silver linings as hard as that is; and make a decision to get up every day (when you can.) Every day, when I wake up, there is a fork in the road. I can either pull the covers up over my head and lay there (which, believe me, many days I would like that) or I get up and do something. My advice would be to keep it moving. Be your own best friend…and watch what you tell yourself…remember, you are always listening.
With your role on the Today Show, how do you balance the emotional demands of your personal journey with the responsibilities and excitement of your career?
I sleep. A lot. I have always loved sleeping and love alone time. I used to run 24/7 working, going out, running around. One of the silver linings to this mess is cancer has taught me to slow down. I have learned that saying no at times is just as important as saying yes. I love my work so much so it is not like my life is split. Any entrepreneur would tell you that. I actually developed my new line BY JILL MARTIN when I was going through treatment. I couldn’t run like I used to, so I decided to focus on my hero items and go narrow and deep with those.
Can you share some key life lessons or insights you've gained throughout your cancer journey that might inspire others dealing with difficult times?
Wow. So many life lessons…most of which I have known but were amplified over the past year: love hard; play hard; have fun; if you want something enough fight for it; don’t take easy wins for granted. Just appreciate them… and most of all be kind to everyone- you never know what someone is going through.
Given your passion for style and living well, has your approach to fashion and home design evolved during your health journey, and in what ways do you find these aspects healing or empowering?
I have always been a minimalist but again, this trait was amplified during my breast cancer journey. I believe in having quality over quantity. In every aspect of life- friends, jobs, stuff. For example, clutter works against you in my opinion. I would rather you have 10 amazing items in your home or closet then have 100 that are just “meh.” Everything should be a “10” and bring you happiness. If not, it goes…I think simplifying everything is really important. Everyone has a superpower. Stick with that superpower and stay in your lane…I think life starts to get more complicated when you aim for too much too fast. Concentrate on what you are good at and what you really love. I feel that is the most authentic way to live as your true self.
Looking ahead, what are the projects or initiatives you’re most passionate about, and how do you see yourself using your platform to make a difference in the lives of others?
Out of the challenges of the past year, a new business has emerged that I am super proud of. During my battle with breast cancer, despite continuing my work with the Today Show, my health restricted my studio time. Although my body wasn't as capable of keeping up its usual pace, my mind remained active and focused. I decided to leverage my unique strength: a mission to help people look and feel their best while staying comfortably stylish. So, I concentrated on four signature pieces, securing prestigious and fan-centric intellectual properties, and launched "The Best Store in the World by Jill Martin." We have the NBA, WNBA, most colleges, greek life and more. Every item on my site is designed to be worn anytime, is machine washable, and comes with a playful warning: "You may never want to take this off!"
I consider myself blessed; I've discovered silver linings amid a challenging year. I'm dedicated to using my platform to educate and advocate, creating products that inspire conversations about genetic testing—a process that saved my life. Helping even one person through this message is deeply fulfilling for me.
Now single and focused on her businesses, it’s clear that Jill’s passion for style, commitment to authenticity, and inspirational journey continue to resonate widely. Whether she’s sharing the latest fashion trends or personal stories of resilience and entrepreneurship, Jill's influence and warmth shine through.
For those looking to connect with Jill or stay updated on her latest projects, you can follow her on social @JillMartin, where she regularly engages with her audience and shares behind-the-scenes glimpses into her life.
Additionally, Jill's work can be seen on the "Today" show, where she provides fashion tips and lifestyle advice.
BY JILL MARTIN IS AVAILABLE AT JILLMARTIN.COM
Interview and Creative Direction by Vanessa Coppes
Assistance to the EIC Aseel Shilleh
Photography By Nigel Barker
Photography Assistance by Toby Sprague, Christian Ern and Tommy Kerns
Makeup by Chris Lanston
Hair by Vinicius Clemente
Stylists Mindy Shapiro + Paula Orlan
Styling + Shoot Assistance by Danielle Kiriakos + Kiera Gainer
Behind the Scenes Photography and Videography by Miguel Pichardo
Location, The Ellington on Broadway