Person
Every book Shonda Rhimes recommended on podcasts
Shonda Rhimes appeared on The Mel Robbins Podcast, where she discussed how memoirs and autobiographies served as literary mentors when she lacked them in real life. She mentioned reading Phil Knight's Shoe Dog to learn from extraordinary people. Rhimes also referenced Anne Lamott's Bird by Bird as part of the collection of books she used to take lessons from for professional and personal growth. Furthermore, she discussed Michelle Obama's inspiring memoir Becoming as another influential work that acted as a guide. Finally, Rhimes highlighted Andre Agassi's Open as part of the selection of autobiographies that provided foundational lessons and mentorship for her future endeavors.
Books recommended by Shonda Rhimes
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Becoming
Becoming is a widely discussed memoir by Michelle Obama that details her life, public journey, and transition through various stages, including her time as First Lady of the United States.
Discussed“And so what I did was is I started reading books about people, memoirs, autobiographies about people who had done extraordinary things and really decided that those were going to be my mentors. I was going to take my lessons from those books. And it was everything from Shoe Dog by Phil Knight to Bird by Bird by Ann Lamont”
Where to get it
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Bird by Bird
Bird by Bird by Anne Lamott is a widely celebrated guide to the craft of writing that offers practical advice on overcoming creative obstacles while doubling as a reflection on life.
Discussed“And so what I did was is I started reading books about people, memoirs, autobiographies about people who had done extraordinary things and really decided that those were going to be my mentors. I was going to take my lessons from those books. And it was everything from Shoe Dog by Phil Knight to Bird by Bird by Ann Lamont”
Where to get it
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Open
Open by Andre Agassi is a candid and acclaimed memoir detailing the tennis legend's turbulent athletic career, complex relationship with his father, and internal psychological battles.
Discussed“And so what I did was is I started reading books about people, memoirs, autobiographies about people who had done extraordinary things and really decided that those were going to be my mentors. I was going to take my lessons from those books. And it was everything from Shoe Dog by Phil Knight to Bird by Bird by Ann Lamont”
Where to get it
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Shoe Dog
Shoe Dog by Phil Knight is a candid and gripping memoir by the co-founder of Nike that chronicles the harrowing early struggles, relentless perseverance, and eventual global success of the iconic athletic brand.
Discussed“And so what I did was is I started reading books about people, memoirs, autobiographies about people who had done extraordinary things and really decided that those were going to be my mentors. I was going to take my lessons from those books. And it was everything from Shoe Dog by Phil Knight to Bird by Bird by Ann Lamont”
Where to get it
Books Shonda Rhimes wrote
Appearances
| Episode | Podcast | Date | Books |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Secret to Stopping Fear & Creating the Future You Want with Shonda Rhimes | The Mel Robbins Podcast | 2025-11-10 | 4 |