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True Gretch

What I've Learned About Life, Leadership, and Everything in Between

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About this listen

 From trailblazing Michigan governor, Democratic leader, and national advocate for women’s rights, Gretchen Whitmer, comes an unconventional and deeply personal account of her life and career—“Not your nana’s ponderous political memoir” (New York magazine)—offering insights into her leadership during the Covid-19 pandemic, her fight against domestic terrorism threats, and her resilience in the face of extraordinary challenges.

When Gretchen Whitmer was growing up, her beloved grandmother Nino taught her that you can always find something good in other people. “Even the meanest person might have pretty eyes,” she would say. Nino’s words persuaded Whitmer to look for the good in any person or situation—just one of many colorful personal experiences that have shaped her political vision. (And, as Whitmer writes, one that resonated more than another piece of advice her grandmother offered, to “never part your hair in the middle.”)

In this candid and inspiring book, Whitmer reveals the principles and instincts that have shaped her extraordinary career, from her early days as a lawyer and legislator and her 2018 election as governor of Michigan, to her bold and innovative actions as she led the state through a series of unprecedented crises. Her motto in politics, she writes, is to “get shit done.”

Whitmer shares the lessons in resilience that steered her through some of the most challenging events in Michigan’s history, such as the Covid-19 pandemic, a five-hundred-year flood, the rise of domestic terrorism, and the fierce fight to protect reproductive rights.

Along the way, she tells stories about the outsize characters in her family, her lifelong clumsy streak, the wild comments she’s heard on the campaign trail, her self-deprecating social media campaigns (including her star turn as a talking potato with lipstick), and the slyly funny tactics she deploys to neutralize her opponents.

Written with Whitmer’s trademark sense of humor and straight-shooting style, True Gretch is not only a compelling account of her remarkable journey, but also “welcome reassurance that someone might be courageous and capable enough to run toward the fire” (The Washington Post)—a blueprint for anyone who wants to make a difference in their community, their country, or the world. It is a testament to the power of humor, perseverance, and compassion in the face of darkness. Politicians Politics & Activism Politics & Government Women Funny Inspiring Witty
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I was worried because of the brevity of the audiobook that it may lack in substance or tell less of a story than I was hoping for.

After listening, I ended up buying the book as well. Governor Whitmer really does have a talent for storytelling, and the narrative of her life so far has been enlightening. I only knew a bit about her before but the more I learn the more I admire her.

I doubt governor will be the last public office she holds and I hope she has the aspirations to take her to DC.

Best Political Mémoire in a Decade

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She was brought up to look for the good in people and that’s what I like. Brought up with strong values and shows she really cares by not coming to face value conclusions on matters, but looks for the deeper cause. A problems solver with heart.
Thank you Gretchen.

Whitmer Cares

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