The culmination of an extraordinary adventure has manifested in a robust collection of 66 poignant life stories, each a mirror reflecting the reader’s own experiences and illuminating the shared tapestry of the human condition. At the heart of Leeson’s thesis lies a profound truth: beneath our apparent differences, fundamental similarities unite us, fostering deeper connections and empathy. Accompanying these narratives are 52 perspectives on the current state and future trajectory of the United States.
This book, nestled within the Amazon category of Behavioral Psychology, has swiftly captured the public’s imagination. Within mere weeks of its release, the Kindle edition soared to #1 in New Releases, while the paperback claimed the #2 spot. This meteoric rise speaks volumes about the book’s resonance; people are hungry for uplifting stories that help them connect with others. Notable endorsements from McAdams and Randall—renowned narrative psychology and narrative gerontology scholars, respectively—further validate its impact.
If you’re curious about the transformative potential of being interviewed using the protocol designed by Dan McAdams (detailed in the book’s Appendix), consider the heartfelt feedback from just one participant. For those who dare to embrace this opportunity, the experience promises more than just catharsis. It offers a profound journey of self-discovery, deepening your understanding of both yourself and the intricate lives of others.
Academic Endorsements
Academic Endorsements
“At a time when Americans feel more divided from each other than ever, Gregory Leeson offers a message and a methodology of hope. People find common ground through storytelling, Leeson shows us, for it is nearly impossible to dismiss, let alone hate, another person once you have come to know their story. Leeson clocked over 26,000 miles on his intrepid travels across the United States (and Canada), conducting extensive life-story interviews with people he met along the way. In this remarkable volume, he translates those unwieldy narratives into concise and riveting accounts that depict the many-splendored variation of contemporary American lives, as well as shared understandings and common ground. More than anything else, Leeson knows how to listen to people with humility and grace. We all need to learn how to do the same.”
“Gregory Leeson has done something many of us only dream about doing in our later years. Setting out on the quintessential road trip, he has crisscrossed the continent, listened in-depth to people from all walks of life, and woven their stories into this accessible, edifying volume, one worth taking the time to read.”
“At a time when Americans feel more divided from each other than ever, Gregory Leeson offers a message and a methodology of hope. People find common ground through storytelling, Leeson shows us, for it is nearly impossible to dismiss, let alone hate, another person once you have come to know their story. Leeson clocked over 26,000 miles on his intrepid travels across the United States (and Canada), conducting extensive life-story interviews with people he met along the way. In this remarkable volume, he translates those unwieldy narratives into concise and riveting accounts that depict the many-splendored variation of contemporary American lives, as well as shared understandings and common ground. More than anything else, Leeson knows how to listen to people with humility and grace. We all need to learn how to do the same.”
“Gregory Leeson has done something many of us only dream about doing in our later years. Setting out on the quintessential road trip, he has crisscrossed the continent, listened in-depth to people from all walks of life, and woven their stories into this accessible, edifying volume, one worth taking the time to read.”
Amazon Reviews (4 examples)
Amazon Reviews (4 examples)
A Monumental Work of Empathy and Insight
“Leeson’s book is more than a project—it’s a calling. From the first page, I knew I’d read it to the end. Through 66 mini biographies drawn from 71 interviews, he invites us into lives that feel both intimate and universal. These short stories tap into emotion, each one compelling the next.
In the Preface, Leeson shares his goal: “for readers to recognize that our shared experiences greatly outweigh our differences.” He succeeds. Many interviewees express frustration and division about America’s current state, yet their stories reveal common ground.
Leeson listens like a therapist—intently, empathetically. His role transcends chronicler; he’s doing the work of understanding. The “Story Tellers” section is especially powerful, offering nuanced glimpses into real lives that resonate deeply.
On page 4, Leeson delves into Neil Howe’s Cycle Theory of History and how it parallels the human lifecycle. His work is geopolitical, reflective, and intellectually ambitious. It will appeal to readers who enjoy biographies, critical thinking, academia, social science, and political theory.
This book is a monumental feat. It’s not just a read—it’s an experience. Highly recommended for anyone seeking depth, empathy, and insight into the current state of American identity, civic tension, and the stories that bind us. A second volume is much anticipated.”
A Powerful Collection of Resilience and Hope
“Ordinary People, Extraordinary Lives by Gregory J. Leeson is a deeply moving and thought-provoking book that delves into the lives of everyday individuals who have faced extraordinary challenges. This book is perfect for anyone interested in memoirs, personal development, and social commentary. It’s a must-read for those seeking to understand the complexities of human experience and the power of storytelling in bridging societal divides.”
A Message of Hope During Divided Times
“This book resonates deeply for me in today’s social climate. In a world often fraught with polarization, this message serves as a poignant reminder of the power of human understanding and connection. The book encourages readers to look beyond surface differences and recognize the common threads that bind us all. It is a call to action for readers to seek out common ground, engage in meaningful conversations, and embrace the rich diversity of our shared experiences. This book is not just a collection of interviews; it is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring power of connection.
Highly recommended for anyone seeking understanding in a divided World.”
A book for our times that promotes societal communication, empathy, and understanding, not division
“Mr. Leeson writes that rare book for our times that promotes societal communication, empathy, and understanding, not division. By presenting peoples’ shared commonalities in life experiences, both positive and negative, as well as sharing intimate details of his life story, Mr. Leeson demonstrates that there is much that unites us and that can be harnessed for self improvement and reconciliation as well as being a greater positive influence on society in general.
I found the life interview protocol he used to engage those he interviewed to be a particularly insightful and practical guide for improving my communication with those I already know as well as new acquaintances.”
Interviewee Feedback (Amy)
Interviewee Feedback (Amy)
They say things happen for a reason, and this is a perfect example.
I met Greg randomly in Seattle. I live in Los Angeles but visited Seattle for two days for a job interview. In line at a chocolate store, we said hello and did some small talk, then went our separate ways. Later, we bumped into each other two more times. By the third random meetup, something told me we needed to talk more, but I had no idea why. I just went with it.
When we were about to say our last goodbyes, I briefly shared a little more about my life with the hopes he would ask to interview me, as I know my life story is a unique one to share. It turned out the timing couldn’t have been any better. Greg’s travels brought him to Los Angeles three weeks later, so we planned to meet then.
From the pre-interview homework question of breaking my life down into chapters and naming each chapter (a great retrospective exercise) to the last question, each was meticulous, had a purpose, and was well-thought-out. Greg took me on a journey of my own life while gathering everything he needed to write my story. My interview lasted about five hours.
The questions covered many different topics, and the answers to his questions brought out all types of emotions, from happiness to sadness, guilt to shame to regret, moments of pride, and everything in between. Not once did I feel judged or uncomfortable sharing.
When I first met Greg in Seattle, he mentioned some people he had interviewed later reported that they had healed or could process parts of their lives that they had never done before. I didn’t think I would have the same outcome.
But I was speechless when Greg emailed me my short story after turning my five-hour interview into 500+ words. He understood! He GOT MY STORY! Someone finally heard me, understood my journey, and could tell it in a way that allowed me to release so much of the pain I had been carrying for years. For that, I am forever grateful to Greg.
They say things happen for a reason, and this is a perfect example.
I met Greg randomly in Seattle. I live in Los Angeles but visited Seattle for two days for a job interview. In line at a chocolate store, we said hello and did some small talk, then went our separate ways. Later, we bumped into each other two more times. By the third random meetup, something told me we needed to talk more, but I had no idea why. I just went with it.
When we were about to say our last goodbyes, I briefly shared a little more about my life with the hopes he would ask to interview me, as I know my life story is a unique one to share. It turned out the timing couldn’t have been any better. Greg’s travels brought him to Los Angeles three weeks later, so we planned to meet then.
From the pre-interview homework question of breaking my life down into chapters and naming each chapter (a great retrospective exercise) to the last question, each was meticulous, had a purpose, and was well-thought-out. Greg took me on a journey of my own life while gathering everything he needed to write my story. My interview lasted about five hours.
The questions covered many different topics, and the answers to his questions brought out all types of emotions, from happiness to sadness, guilt to shame to regret, moments of pride, and everything in between. Not once did I feel judged or uncomfortable sharing.
When I first met Greg in Seattle, he mentioned some people he had interviewed later reported that they had healed or could process parts of their lives that they had never done before. I didn’t think I would have the same outcome.
But I was speechless when Greg emailed me my short story after turning my five-hour interview into 500+ words. He understood! He GOT MY STORY! Someone finally heard me, understood my journey, and could tell it in a way that allowed me to release so much of the pain I had been carrying for years. For that, I am forever grateful to Greg.