Podcast Summary: "Running Toward the Fire with Governor Gretchen Whitmer"

Episode Title: Running Toward the Fire with Governor Gretchen Whitmer
Host: Reshma Saujani
Guest: Governor Gretchen Whitmer
Release Date: April 23, 2025
Podcast: My So-Called Midlife with Reshma Saujani
Produced by: Lemonada Media

I. Introduction

In this episode of "My So-Called Midlife," host Reshma Saujani engages in a profound conversation with Governor Gretchen Whitmer of Michigan. The discussion delves into topics ranging from leadership and resilience to personal challenges and societal issues faced by women in midlife. This episode offers listeners invaluable insights into navigating midlife with strength, confidence, and “swag.”

II. Background of Gretchen Whitmer

Governor Whitmer is recognized for her steadfast leadership during Michigan's pandemic response, a kidnapping attempt, and natural disasters. Her new book, "True Gretchen," serves as a cornerstone for the conversation, providing a window into her experiences and the lessons learned throughout her political career.

III. Midlife Mindset and Personal Growth

Reshma Saujani opens the dialogue by exploring the concept of the midlife mindset. She asks Governor Whitmer how she perceives this phase of life.

• Gretchen Whitmer (04:01):
  "I think a lot about growth. I look at my kids who are in their 20s today, and it’s a totally different experience. I’m grateful to be in my mid, 53, and really owning my space in a way I didn’t feel in my twenties."

Whitmer emphasizes that midlife brings a sense of ownership and clarity about one's identity, a contrast to the uncertainties of earlier years.

IV. Challenges in Leadership

The conversation shifts to the complexities of political leadership and the constant pressures that come with it.

• Reshma Saujani (05:06):
  "In politics, you’re going from one thing to the next, which seems like an oxymoron when trying to stay present."

• Gretchen Whitmer (05:23):
  "Every waking minute of my day is designed for me. The challenge is staying in the moment amidst unpredictability."

Whitmer discusses the balancing act of meticulous planning while remaining adaptable to unforeseen challenges, highlighting the unpredictability inherent in political roles.

V. Societal Issues: Gender Pay Gap and Menopause

The discussion delves into pressing societal issues affecting midlife women, such as the gender pay gap and menopause.

• Gretchen Whitmer (35:38):
  "The largest gender pay gap is for women above the age of 50. It’s data-driven discrimination, perceiving older women as less capable or having too many responsibilities."

• Reshma Saujani (36:43):
  "Menopause is a real health issue that impacts women's participation in the workforce. There’s a lack of research and support."

Whitmer and Saujani address the systemic barriers that midlife women face, advocating for greater investment in women's health and more inclusive workplace policies.

VI. Personal Experiences: Divorce and Sexual Assault

Governor Whitmer shares deeply personal experiences, illustrating the intersection of personal adversity and public service.

• Divorce Experience (47:26):
  Whitmer recounts her amicable divorce, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing the well-being of her children and maintaining a respectful relationship with her ex-husband.

• Sexual Assault Disclosure (50:14):
  Whitmer courageously discusses her experience of being sexually assaulted in college and the ensuing decision to share her story publicly to advocate for reproductive rights and healthcare access for women.

  • Gretchen Whitmer (53:24):
    "When I put my story out there, I lost the fight, but I gained a purpose to advocate for others."

These narratives underscore the resilience required to navigate personal trauma while maintaining a commitment to public service.

VII. Leadership and Resilience

A central theme of the episode is the cultivation of resilience and effective leadership.

• Running Toward the Fire Metaphor (21:38):
  Whitmer explains her book's metaphor, emphasizing the importance of facing challenges head-on rather than avoiding them.

  • Gretchen Whitmer (22:02):
    "When there's a fire, you can run away, stand and watch, or run toward the flames. We’re running toward the flames."

• Handling Criticism and Maintaining Composure (43:44):
  Whitmer discusses managing public criticism, particularly regarding her appearance, by maintaining focus on her responsibilities.

  • Gretchen Whitmer (43:44):
    "I laugh it off and keep moving forward. People respect that I’m not going to be pushed around."

• Advice on Owning One’s Narrative (57:23):
  Whitmer advises women to authentically present themselves, stressing the importance of individual voices and perspectives.

  • Gretchen Whitmer (57:23):
    "Show up exactly as you are. Every one of us has an important voice and perspective to offer."

VIII. Societal and Structural Support for Women

Whitmer highlights the necessity of societal and structural support systems to empower midlife women.

• Support for Caregiving (38:40):
  Discussing the immense caregiving responsibilities many midlife women shoulder, Whitmer calls for better support systems to alleviate the pressures that lead to workforce attrition.

  • Gretchen Whitmer (38:40):
    "We haven’t devoted the resources needed to support older adult care. It’s a structural issue that needs addressing."

IX. Embracing Authenticity and “Swag”

The conversation touches on the concept of “swag” and the importance of women embracing their authentic selves.

• Ownership of Swag (28:19):
  Whitmer credits previous trailblazing women for paving the way for her to confidently present herself.

  • Gretchen Whitmer (28:19):
    "With experience and years, more badass women are owning their space. I’m grateful for those who walked through the fire before me."

X. Conclusion and Final Advice

In wrapping up, Governor Whitmer offers heartfelt advice to women navigating midlife challenges.

• Show Up as Yourself (57:23):

  • Gretchen Whitmer:
    "Be exactly who you are. Every one of us has an important voice and perspective."

• Resilience Through Adversity (55:07):
  Whitmer shares a therapeutic analogy that reframes her trauma as a vessel for purpose.

  • Gretchen Whitmer (55:07):
    "Life will carve you out, but it allows you to carry water and give purpose."

Whitmer’s insights reflect a profound understanding of the multifaceted nature of midlife, emphasizing resilience, authenticity, and the importance of supportive structures.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Gretchen Whitmer (04:01):
  "I’m really owning my space in a way that I didn't feel like I could when I was in my twenties."

• Reshma Saujani (05:06):
  "In politics, you’re going from one thing to the next, which seems like an oxymoron when trying to stay present."

• Gretchen Whitmer (35:38):
  "The largest gender pay gap is for women above the age of 50. It’s data-driven discrimination."

• Gretchen Whitmer (22:02):
  "When there's a fire, you can run away, stand and watch, or run toward the flames. We’re running toward the flames."

• Gretchen Whitmer (57:23):
  "Be exactly who you are. Every one of us has an important voice and perspective to offer."

Key Takeaways

1. Embrace Growth in Midlife: Midlife offers an opportunity for personal growth, ownership of one’s identity, and enhanced confidence.

2. Resilient Leadership: Effective leaders face challenges head-on, maintain composure under criticism, and stay true to their values.

3. Addressing Societal Barriers: Systemic issues like the gender pay gap and lack of support for menopause and caregiving need urgent attention to empower midlife women.

4. Personal Adversity as Strength: Personal challenges, such as divorce and trauma, can be transformative, fostering resilience and a commitment to advocacy.

5. Authenticity and “Swag”: Authentic self-presentation is crucial for confidence and effectiveness in leadership roles.

6. Support Systems are Essential: Robust societal and structural support systems are necessary to alleviate the pressures faced by midlife women, particularly those balancing caregiving responsibilities.

This episode provides a candid and inspiring exploration of midlife through the lens of a seasoned leader. Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s experiences and insights serve as a testament to the strength and resilience inherent in navigating midlife challenges, encouraging listeners to embrace their authentic selves and lead with confidence.