True Gretch

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

By: Gretchen Whitmer

Narrated by: Gretchen Whitmer

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.

Candid and inspiring

Insightful account of her time as a governor and her personal challenges as a woman and a public figure.

A pretty decent politician autobiography

This was a pretty decent politician autobiography. Seemed short and quick. To the point with stories she told. Nothing was as expanded upon. She did have some funny things to say. I liked the audiobook had the accompanying PDF to show photos and things she spoke of.

Good storytelling with a sense of humor.

Gretchen Whitmer, Governor of the State of Michigan, tells her story with sincere emotion and a sense of humor.

Loved learning about Gretch!

What an interesting and ethical person. She’s an amazing role model! Lots of useful nuggets to help in one’s own life, too!!

Very inspirational and uplifting!

Listening to this book was like a beaming light in the middle of darkness. Very motivational and a great tool for staying positive in times of darkness (or any time!) Thank you for sharing your Life experiences. Great, great book!