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Find Your Fight: Make Your Voice Heard for the Causes That Matter Most

Speak out, spark controversy, and fight for what matters most!

Before you can become an effective activist or trusted ally, you must first find your fight and pinpoint the issue or issues that matter most to you. Once you figure this out, you can start moving what’s inside you to the outside, where change happens.

Jay Ruderman, an accomplished activist, has been doing just that for more than three decades—working to change popular opinion and influence public policy on the issues that move him. In this inspiring call to action, Ruderman offers hard-earned wisdom, sure-fire strategies, and actionable lessons for how to create controversy, speak up, and grab attention for the causes closest to your heart.

With authenticity and purpose, Ruderman details his many successes (and more than a few setbacks) to illustrate these lessons in action. Complementing his stories are profiles of notable activists and advocates from the past and present. Urgent and unapologetic, this practical and empowering guide teaches the next generation of activists and advocates how to step up, shout out, and start doing the hard work of bringing about lasting change.

215 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 26, 2025

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Jay Ruderman

2 books6 followers

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5 stars
42 (70%)
4 stars
9 (15%)
3 stars
7 (11%)
2 stars
1 (1%)
1 star
1 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
Profile Image for ♡Heather✩Brown♡.
1,222 reviews86 followers
August 15, 2025
#ad much love for my finished copy @tlcbooktours #partner

🅵🅸🅽🅳 🆈🅾🆄🆁 🅵🅸🅶🅷🆃
< @jayruderman >
ᴀᴠᴀɪʟᴀʙʟᴇ ɴᴏᴡ

𝑨 𝒕𝒊𝒎𝒆𝒍𝒚 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒊𝒎𝒑𝒐𝒓𝒕𝒂𝒏𝒕 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅…

Not only is this book full of inspiration and ways you can get involved - it’s also compelling. Making for a great read. From the forward to the last page, you’ll gain a better understanding of how you can make a difference.

𝙒𝙚 𝙙𝙤 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙩𝙤 𝙗𝙚𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙚 𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙤𝙚𝙨 𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙣𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩, 𝙟𝙪𝙨𝙩 𝙖 𝙨𝙩𝙚𝙥 𝙖𝙩 𝙖 𝙩𝙞𝙢𝙚.. - 𝙀𝙡𝙚𝙖𝙣𝙤𝙧 𝙍𝙤𝙤𝙨𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙡𝙩

I enjoyed reading the author’s perspective but also all the sources he cited. He covers an array of issues and gives us the tools we need to be activists in our own lives. I especially appreciated the part about how to talk to others who don’t see things the way we do.

Activism can seem daunting at times - but this book proves that you never really know the full reach of your actions and words until you can look back and see those changes.

This book offers hope in a hopeless world.
Profile Image for Bargain Sleuth Book Reviews.
1,797 reviews19 followers
May 18, 2025
Thanks to Greenleaf Audiobooks and NetGalley for the ALC of this book; I am leaving my review voluntarily.

What we in the United States needs right now is a rally cry, and this book does a good job of convincing you that you can be effective, you can speak up and speak out, that causes that matter to you do need your help., like saving Democracy.

Ruderman focuses on advocating for equality for those with disabilities, and he's been doing it for decades. I figured out that he was a few years older than me, so why get a narrator who sounds 25. It was just--weird hearing this really young adult-sounded narrator talking about something that went on in the late 1970s.

Despite my reservations with the narrator, this book couldn't come at a more important time. If you need motivation to get up, speak out, and affect change, this book is for you.
Profile Image for Michael Mantell, Ph.D..
2 reviews
March 27, 2025
‘Find Your Fight:’ Activist’s Manual for Changemaking is a Rallying Cry and Wake-Up Call

By Michael R. Mantell, Ph.D.

Find Your Fight by Jay Ruderman isn’t just a book—I found it to be a rallying cry. A deeply personal, straight-to-the-heart call to action for anyone who feels that pull to create real, lasting change in the world. Ruderman, a lifelong champion of social justice and inclusion, doesn’t deal in vague ideals or abstract encouragement—he hands you the blueprint. This is about turning conviction into movement, passion into impact. It speaks clearly and is highly motivating.

What makes this newly released book stand out isn’t just its message—it’s the way Ruderman delivers it. He doesn’t just talk about the fight; he lives it. We need more of this. He brings the reader into his own journey, sharing both his victories and the roadblocks along the way. And that’s what makes it land so powerfully—his honesty, his experience, his unwavering belief that change isn’t reserved for the powerful or the well-connected. It’s for anyone willing to step up and claim their fight.

But this book isn’t just about his journey. Ruderman shines a light on other changemakers, proving that activism takes many shapes and forms. Whether your passion is disability rights, mental health, or any other social justice cause, this book doesn’t just inspire—it equips. It moves you from “caring” to “doing,” so essential today when many are on the sidelines of life. It’s time to do, not simply “stand with,” and Ruderman makes this case as clearly as can be.

Find Your Fight isn’t here to coddle you. It’s here to wake you up. To shake you out of waiting for the “perfect moment” and remind you that the time to act is now. If you’ve ever felt the urge to stand up for something bigger than yourself but didn’t know where to begin, this book hands you the map. And Ruderman doesn’t stop at motivation—he offers a playbook. Some standout takeaways:

1. Choosing Your Cause with Heart: Passion is the fuel of activism. Ruderman drives home the point that when you fight for something you genuinely believe in, your conviction becomes contagious. Others feel it. Others join in.

2. The Power of Relentless Persistence: Ruderman echoes President Calvin Coolidge’s wisdom: “Persistence and determination alone are omnipotent.” Change doesn’t happen overnight—it happens because people refuse to quit.

3. Becoming an Expert: If you’re going to advocate for something, know your stuff. Ruderman stresses that deep knowledge isn’t just an asset—it’s a necessity. Expertise earns credibility, influence, and, ultimately, results.

4. Finding Your People: No one fights alone. Ruderman highlights the power of collaboration—of bringing together people whose strengths complement your own, amplifying your impact through collective effort.

5. Not Being Afraid to Stir the Pot: Change is disruptive by nature. Ruderman reminds us that controversy isn’t something to fear—it’s often a sign you’re pushing society forward. The discomfort is part of the process.

Through personal passion and strategic action, Find Your Fight offers more than inspiration—it provides the tools to turn conviction into real-world change.

At its core, this book is part memoir, part manual—an unfiltered, hard-earned guide to activism straight from someone who’s been in the trenches. Ruderman lays it all out—the struggles, the wins, the lessons learned—so that you don’t just walk away thinking about change. You walk away creating it.

*
Michael R. Mantell, Ph.D. is a retired psychologist, best-selling author, international speaker, and a highly sought after cognitive behavioral coach whose actionable, valuable, and practical work has been featured on Fox News, ABC-TV, NBC-TV, CBS-TV, The New York Times, and The Huffington Post.
1 review
April 2, 2025
A Powerful Guide to Activism for All

Jay Ruderman’s Find Your Fight is an inspiring and thought-provoking exploration of what it means to be an activist. What stood out to me most was the incredible range of stories he shares—examples of people from all walks of life who found their cause and took action. Ruderman makes it clear that activism isn’t limited to marches or protests; it can take many forms, in any field, and at any stage of life.

One of the book’s most important messages is the distinction between activism and violence. In a world where tensions often escalate into conflict, Ruderman’s emphasis on creating meaningful, lasting change through strategy and persistence—rather than destruction—is a lesson that couldn’t be more relevant.

As someone who attended a high school dedicated to uniting people, nations, and cultures through education, I couldn’t help but think that Find Your Fight should be part of every curriculum. It’s an essential read for young changemakers and anyone looking to make a real impact in the world.
72 reviews3 followers
December 9, 2025
I want to thank Goodreads and Jay Ruderman for a copy of Find Your Fight.

Find Your Fight is a very informative read. I really enjoyed all of the examples that were given throughout the book. I am very impressed with the way young people are getting involved and fighting for causes that are important to them. I keep thinking that these are the people that are going to make the world a little better. Ruderman gives good advice and examples throughout the book. It's okay to speak out, be controversial, and fight for the issues that matter most to you. There is a difference between sparking controversy while fighting for your cause and acting out in violence. He also covered that you are not going to win every fight. Activism takes time and will be met with both successes and failures. However, the positive changes that occur will be long term if they are achieved the right way.

I recommend this book. Even if you are not looking to be an activist, the stories are great and might make you want to get involved to help someone's cause.
1,370 reviews
June 27, 2025
Find Your Fight: Make Your Voice Heard for the Causes That Matter Most is a thought provoking, empowering, powerful and pragmatic guide on how to become an activist. Jay Ruderman is an accomplished advocate for disabled people, and he shares his wisdom, tips and strategies so that anyone can become an activist. He also highlights the accomplishments of a variety of fascinating activists. I was excited to learn about these incredible people and the inspiring work they have done to improve life for others.
Find Your Fight is a rallying cry for the United States right now, as there are so many injustices and atrocities being committed. This book is perfect for those who want to do something to help but don't know where to start. Highly recommended.
Thank you to the Greenleaf Book Group, Jay Ruderman and Copilot Publishing for a gifted copy.
Profile Image for Luna and Co.
216 reviews10 followers
September 20, 2025
I really enjoyed the various examples of activist stories, and the narration on the audiobook was very well done. For the advice: it was very "Here is what worked for me, so now this is the exact thing you need to do". I wish the author had acknowledged his privileges at some point, because, whether he wants it or not, they have affected his views and contributed to his success.
Saying that having more than one cause will "erode your brand" made me cringe badly. My activism will never be a brand, and I don't see how you can fight for one cause without it becoming more. The author's cause is the portrayal of disabilities, but disabled people will have different experiences and will intersect with other causes and realities: POC, immigration, queerness, sex, and others.

Thank you Netgalley and Greenleaf Audiobooks for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
1 review
September 3, 2026
I gave Find Your Fight five stars because it genuinely left me thinking about the kind of impact I want to have. Jay Ruderman manages to strike a rare balance between being motivating and actually practical—this isn’t just about big ideas, but about taking real steps, even small ones, toward something meaningful.

What stood out to me most was how grounded the book feels. It doesn’t pretend that creating change is easy or linear; instead, it leans into the complexity and the setbacks that come with it. That honesty made the message land much stronger.

Overall, it’s an engaging and thoughtful read that pushes you to reflect, but also gives you the tools to act. Highly recommended for anyone who feels the urge to do more, but isn’t quite sure how to start.
1,318 reviews32 followers
April 16, 2025
Find Your Fight: Make Your Voice Heard For The Causes That Matter Most is an empowering, enlightening, captivating, and powerful read! This wonderful book gives readers phenomenal tools to begin activism. The author, Jay Ruderman, is an accomplished activist who shares his wisdom. I love that this book gives the readers strategies and realistic expectations. One act or day of advocacy does not ensure change; change is a continous battle.....but it is always worth the fight. The author shares personal stories and stories of others to inspire and educate the reader. This real world application ties his message together beautifully!
Profile Image for Denise Jacobson.
15 reviews1 follower
September 22, 2025
I won the audible edition of this book through the #goodreadsgiveaway. However; this was my first time using Goodreads and I accidentally entered for a chance to win an audible copy, instead of a regular, physical copy. Unfortunately, I can't read it unless it's a physical book, so I'm unable to read this book, even though I desperately want to. If you would be so kind to send me a physical copy, I would GREATLY appreciate it and read it as soon as I received it! Then, I would be able to give this book an honest and fair review! The topic interests me greatly, and I would really love to read it! I'm very sorry I made such a big mistake!
31 reviews
September 1, 2026
An inspiring and practical guide for anyone who wants to make a difference but may not know where to begin. Jay Ruderman combines personal stories, real-world examples, and actionable advice to show how meaningful change starts with identifying the cause that truly matters to you—and finding the courage to speak up for it.

What I appreciated most was the book’s honesty. Ruderman doesn’t focus only on successes; he also shares the setbacks and lessons that shaped his work. Find Your Fight is thoughtful, empowering, and a timely reminder that every person has the ability to use their voice and create change.
1 review
September 2, 2026
Ruderman’s book turns a life dedicated to disability-rights advocacy into a genuinely entertaining and useful playbook for activism. Real change comes from challenging asymmetric systems and taking public stands — and Ruderman backs that up with a history of examining disability representation in Hollywood and beyond.

There’s personal storytelling and practical strategies. And his lessons apply across myriad causes and has broad applications. Pick up this book especially if you’re interested in fighting for a cause but may not know how to begin!
1,424 reviews17 followers
June 16, 2025
This is a "how to" book about how to become an effective activist for a cause you are passionate about. The author claim to fame is being an advocate to get actors with disabilities meaningful roles in the entertainment industry that they deserve. His main tips are finding your passion, never give up, find and use advocates etc. He gives countless examples of successes in various areas. If I had such a passion I would use this book.
1 review
September 1, 2026
I read this book a few weeks ago and would highly recommend it to anyone interested in making a positive impact in their community. The author provides practical guidance, inspiring examples, and actionable steps that make advocacy feel accessible and achievable, regardless of your background or experience level.

An inspiring and empowering read for anyone who wants to give back, create change, and make a difference in the lives of others.
Profile Image for Ellen.
256 reviews5 followers
June 7, 2025
I really found this book to be inspiring! I liked all of the stories that were shared because this made it relatable and relevant to individuals like myself. The book is easy to understand and the listed techniques are simple enough for anyone to do, but also have the ability to make a great impact.

Thank you to the author and the publisher for the opportunity to read this !
Profile Image for Monica Jo.
10 reviews1 follower
August 17, 2025
Great read for anyone who has a cause worth fighting for, but aren't sure where to begin.
Find your fight by Jay Ruderman is a wonderful guide full of information that will give you the tools and knowledge you need to make your cause heard and to make a difference in your community and the world.
Profile Image for Beware the Bookwyrm.
151 reviews4 followers
September 27, 2025
This is a great book to help you focus on which activism projects you want to work on. So many Americans are getting overwhelmed with the amount of activism that is needed right now because the country is going wild. This book helps you to narrow it down and focus in on what you need to do so others can fight their fight and you work on fighting your fight.
1 review
September 1, 2026
Find Your Fight was a really inspiring read. I loved getting a closer look at Jay Ruderman's personal journey into activism, and the stories throughout the book felt honest and relatable. It left me feeling motivated and reminded me how powerful it can be when people turn their experiences into action. A great read for anyone looking to reconnect with their sense of purpose.
1 review
September 2, 2026
The book was deeply meaningful to me. The writing is excellent, and the messages are important—they gave me greater clarity and sharpened my approach to activism in a very meaningful way. The stories vividly illustrate the challenges along the way, while also strengthening the motivation to create change.

A must-read for anyone who wants to lead social change—or any kind of change.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
1 review
September 2, 2026
Really solid, practical guide on how modern advocacy actually works. Jay Ruderman shares both the wins and the mistakes from his own career, which makes the advice feel grounded instead of just idealistic fluff. Great read if you're tryign to figure out how to actually get people to pay attention to an issue. Easily 5 stars.
1 review
September 2, 2026
Find Your Fight: Make Your Voice Heard for the Causes That Matter Most is an inspiring and empowering read that encourages readers to stand up for what they believe in. With practical advice and motivating stories, it shows how ordinary people can create meaningful change. A compelling guide for anyone looking to make a difference and turn passion into action.
1 review
September 7, 2026
Find Your Fight is an inspiring and practical book for anyone who wants to make a positive impact but isn’t sure where to start.
One of the things I liked most about the book is how honest and relatable it feels. Ruderman talks not only about the successes he has experienced, but also about the challenges, failures, and lessons he encountered along the way.
61 reviews
December 5, 2025
Practical and vulnerable advice about how to be an effective activist from Jay Ruderman, who has worked in activism for disability inclusion for decades! Gives examples of activists from a variety of causes, ages, income levels and backgrounds
1 review
September 1, 2026
Great easy read. Jay really dives into his career with examples of changes he has procured, as well as showing how others have followed his lead. Very inspirational on how even the littlest things can make large difference in the world.
1 review
September 2, 2026
an inspiring book about standing up for the things you believe in. It shares real experiences and practical lessons about creating change and making your voice heard. It’s an easy, motivating read that encourages you to take action instead of just hoping things will change.
1 review
September 7, 2026
I recommend this book.
The author absolutely asks the right questions one should be asking if you want to make your voice heard for the causes that matter to you most.
It is an inspiring read by a passionate philanthropist.
1 review
August 30, 2026
I found this book extremely helpful in providing me a roadmap for effectively advocating for a better environment.
1 review
August 30, 2026
I really enjoyed the stories of how activists from all walks of life changed our world for the better.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews