Undiplomatic: How My Attitude Created the Best Kind of Trouble

by Deesha Dyer

Without credentials, connections or a college degree, a hip-hop journalist and community leader conquered her imposter syndrome while landing one of the most exclusive, sought-after and fun positions in the White House.

From the most unlikely person to end up as a senior official to President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama comes a candid, incredible and inspiring story. Moved by the election of the country’s first Black president, Deesha Dyer applied for a White House internship in 2009 as a thirty-one-year-old part-time community college student, taking a leap that carried her through being hired in a full-time position, followed by two promotions landing her at the epicenter of politics.

But in spite of the little voice in her head telling her she didn’t deserve to be there, Deesha thrived and rose to the highly coveted role of White House social secretary, giving her a front row-seat to executing events that communicated defining moments in history while curating some of the flyest parties 1600 Pennsylvania has ever seen. With humor and realness, she peels back the curtain, revealing the hard truth about why she spent years trying to hide behind it. Undiplomatic is a deeply personal narrative about combating the feeling of self-doubt while being on top of the world. Deesha reflects on how imposter syndrome threatened her self-esteem, proven aptitude and survival until she realized that it was neither her fault nor her responsibility.

In this vivid portrayal from a true “around the way girl” on the personal impact of the Obama presidency, Deesha shares her road map from imposter to impact. In Undiplomatic, she invites you on a journey of self-discovery where she overcame doubt, unearthed true love for herself and learned that your unique worth is not something to be earned, but something inherently deserved. Uplifting, funny and candid, Deesha’s story shows you how to embrace your authenticity at all costs, and the joy and freedom that awaits on the other side.

Genres: Memoir, Nonfiction, Politics, Audiobook, Biography, Biography Memoir, Autobiography

Audible Audio

Published April 23, 2024

Reviews

[laurel [the suspected bibliophile] · Rating 5 out of 5]

Deesha Dyer's memoir of her time at the White House and after is a must-read.

I know. I know I keep saying this of my nonfiction reads, but this book is truly special.

It's about a Black woman fighting for a seat at the table in a political environment skewing toward Ivy League, white young things. It's about imposter syndrome, of burnout and doing 110% and being called aggressive and angry and loud for just...speaking up as a Black woman.

It's a good behind the scenes look at White House operations—from Pope Francis' first visit to the handling of Melania Trump's Tiffany box gift gaffe during the Trump inauguration to Dyer's mortifying first words to President Obama ("I can jump out"—they were on a plane).

And of course it's a love letter to Philly and community and therapy and taking chances on yourself.

[Lori · Rating 4 out of 5]

A well written, thoughtful memoir by Deesha Dyer, the Obamas’ last social secretary. We all have built in biases, as did Deesha, and assume that all White House interns fit a certain mold, including attending a top-tier university. Deesha had no credentials, connections, or a college degree. What she had was the grit to apply to be an intern at the age of 31, which started her career in the White House. Even as she moved up the ladder, she suffered from “imposter syndrome.” That voice in her head kept telling her she didn’t deserve to be there, which made her only work harder to prove herself. Eventually, after many years, she comes to realize that she must put herself first and that her career does not define who she is.

The memoir is easily readable, written as someone from Philadelphia would talk, and relatable. I think many of us suffer from “imposter syndrome” at some point in our lives. The memoir does not delve very deeply into politics, but is more a story about Deesha, from childhood until the present. I think the book is truly inspirational, especially for young African American women, but really for anyone who feels they don’t belong or aren’t good enough.

While it was interesting to learn what a social secretary’s duties are, the book glossed quickly over some other areas. My biggest concern is for Ms. Dyer herself, who seemed to put her work duties above everything else, to the detriment of her health. That might have been due to her “imposter syndrome,” but I hope she has learned a better work/life balance.

Thank you to NetGalley for providing an eARC in exchange for my honest review. I requested this book to learn more about how someone with Ms. Dyer’s background could rise to such a powerful position. On that, the book delivered.

[Kathleen · Rating 5 out of 5]

My biggest take away from this memoir is to resist the harmful judgments of others, the rolled eyes, the tone of voice, the in-your-face put downs and criticism, the insidious messages that roll around in your head…even if it takes years, even if it takes you out of your comfort zone, even if you have to make tough decisions about who is in your life, or not, even if it leads to therapy.

“Imposter Syndrome,” the demon that haunted Deesha Dyer throughout her life, is pervasive in marginalized groups. Despite her abilities and accomplishments, she felt like a fraud or phony, always waiting to be called out. In the memoir, Dyer explains how it surfaced at the Milton Hershey School, her early college and work experiences, and almost railroaded her a number of times. She describes herself as “undiplomatic” having an attitude that “created the best kind of trouble.” I saw her as having a well of resilience that she courageously tapped over and over again to take risks, to heal herself, and to do good for others.

I admired her honesty, sharing with the reader her darkest moments, the importance of therapy, the boundaries she established for herself, acknowledging the importance of true friends and faith.

Her journey, applying to be a White House intern and rising to become the social secretary, brings the reader behind the scenes, which is exciting, and also left me sobered by the ever-present imposter syndrome. Her life beyond the White House is even more interesting, establishing a non-profit organization, mentoring young women, practicing self-care.

Who should read this book (beyond my Memoir Writing Group, all my friends, family, and colleagues)? I would hope any young person just starting out or having doubts about their worth, feeling hopeless or frightened of the future would read this memoir. Deesha Dyer practically crawls out of the pages to speak to you.

[Roslyn Leon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Amazing. I really enjoyed reading about Deesha’s story and her time in the White House. But what I enjoyed the most, was how much of a badass she is. As a brown woman myself, i’ve had imposter syndrome, especially being in a room with white people. So to read about her story and all that she accomplished, makes me know that i myself can also accomplish. This also goes to show that you don’t have to have it all figured out, no matter the age. As long as you have that help.

[Tamela Gordon · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was recommended to me by a friend who swears I have imposter syndrome.

This was a relatable read as a Black woman who's had success in a career I can't necessarily afford and don't often fit in. Imposter syndrome is a significant theme as it's a constant presence in Deesha Dyer's life, personally and professionally. Rather than sitting in a place of feeling like an imposter, through her experiences with working at the White House, the author uncovers what life is like actually moving forward, despite feelings of inadequacy.

[Jean · Rating 3 out of 5]

I sort of stumbled on this book through an Instagram post, and I'm really glad I did. Deesha Dyer has a fascinating story to tell! I really appreciated her openness and honesty throughout the book and her discussion of imposter syndrome really hit home. I will say, this book did lean a little more self-help than I usually pick up, but overall it was still a great read. I would definitely recommend to anyone who enjoys memoirs and/or self-help. I would also highly recommend listening to the audiobook if possible, because it really adds something extra to hear it in her voice.

[Evangeline White]

This book was ok but it seemed like the author couldn’t decide if she wanted to write a self help book or a memoir. I wish she’d committed to memoir because she was strongest when sharing personal stories and weakest when she was vague and wrote in generalizations.

[Brendan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really loved this book. You get such a sense of Deesha as a young woman in her twenties--her love for her city, her passion for hip hop, how she bends over backwards to help her friends and invest in her community. Even though I knew the ending I got so invested in each small triumph, she plunges you into each moment whether she's applying for an internship or flying on Air Force One for the first time. So many small details will stay with me (a smudge of lotion on a folder at a memorable job interview, a rip in a dress getting a last-minute fix). She really brings to life the nuts and bolts of working at the White House. I loved it!

[Ryan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Deesha’s journey is so exciting and inspiring. I felt like I was with her every step of her journey, and I finished with new perspective and motivation to deal with the self-imposed limitations I apply to myself when planning and goal-setting. I would recommend this book to anyone.

[Liz Reiter · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an honest, vulnerable, well-written memoir that both touched and inspired me. I especially love author-read audiobook memoirs, and Deesha Dyer delivers with sincerity and humor.

[Tana · Rating 5 out of 5]

I laughed, I cried, I danced a little, too, and I wish I'd known more at the time to be a better friend and sister. Thank you for sharing your story.

[Jenn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hugely inspiring overall and the discussion on imposter syndrome really hit home 💜

[Shai · Rating 5 out of 5]

Undiplomatic is the memoir of a 31 year old woman studying for her associates who decides to apply for an internship to Obama's press office. I like when memoirs are written in a conversational way. From the first page, it felt like Deesha Dyer was speaking to me as a reader. She has imposter syndrome but works her way up to become his press secretary. She talks alot about how she kept having imposter syndrome throughout the book, but it was good to see how she overcame it. I feel that this book is an inspiration to anyone who finds themselves stuck in life and needs a push to make changes.

[Marie (Readbyurtherapist) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Deesha shares about her journey from dropping out of Howard to becoming the social secretary for First Lady Michelle Obama. Really amazing reflection on the feeling of imposter syndrome. Also super interesting to hear about the work that goes on in the white house behind the scenes.

[Austin Shay · Rating 4 out of 5]

Undiplomatic by Deesha Dyer is a captivating memoir that offers a refreshing perspective on navigating the often exclusive world of politics while staying true to oneself. Dyer's story, from her beginnings as a hip-hop journalist to becoming the White House Social Secretary, is both inspiring and raw. What sets this book apart is Dyer's unapologetic honesty about her struggles as a Black woman in predominantly white, male-dominated spaces. Her insights into battling imposter syndrome, systemic racism, and sexism are relatable and thought-provoking.

While Dyer's bold attitude and fearless approach often serve as a source of empowerment, the book sometimes strays into repetition, making certain points feel overemphasized. However, this minor flaw doesn't overshadow the book's overall impact. The anecdotes are engaging, and her dedication to advocating for marginalized communities is deeply moving.

For anyone interested in politics, social justice, or personal growth, Undiplomatic is a compelling read that highlights how breaking norms and refusing to conform can create lasting change. Dyer's journey is a testament to resilience, making this memoir a must-read for those looking for inspiration and a reminder that the best kind of trouble often leads to the greatest rewards.

[Ell, Ess Jaeva · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an awesome story, but a meh telling of it. DEI 5*s credited for trying.

There's too much tell vs show. The author speaks about her lack of qualification... lack of diplomacy... etc. but still was promoted to more important roles within the Obama WH. HOW?!? In one of her "imposter" retellings, some friend reminds her of passion, work ethic, etc... But this author does little to show you any of these things. You only hear of her negatives, not why she deserves opportunities despite those negatives... From the telling, it seems she got everything by luckily having a black president and affirmative action, then failing up... The reader must interpolate that the author is smart and diligent and organized and a personable capable leader etc, outside of the personal bad credit, attitude accusations and abortion irresponsibility.

this book is filled with the minutia around: i applied to this thing, though i was too ignorant to know i wasnt qualified. i, ironically, felt unqualified but applied anyway. i was anxious, though i didnt care since i knew it wasnt for someone like me. i got the thing, shocker, glad i applied... rinse, repeat.

Question: Would she get these opportunities if not for Obama? Probably not. She seemed to only network amongst other black staffers who had the power and authority to push her forward. Kinda like a nepo C- "W Bush". Black president, black senator, black business... Connections can move mountains. But how about navigating within a hostile environment??? Obama is gone... There are few "black only" opportunities where you can thrive like this. The pendulum will swing back/forth between accommodations from non-blacks to your NOT code switching. This would be a far more impactful telling if about finding affinities to earn a hookup, when out of your comfort zone (politically, socially, class, education, race). connecting with non-black staffers/leaders in addition to black ones, etc.

Random asides (given i finished Coleman Hughes's book the same day i started this one):

Most interesting is hearing a snipe at Trump WH entrance, his lack of etiquette that all WH docs belong to govt. BUT, 99% of her "imposter syndrome" spiel is about her not fitting into norms. Grace for me not thee, i guess. (and from a Fuck Trumper like me; well F em all actually, none care about u). us vs them mentality keeps all from seeing common humanity

She speaks about displeasure at code switching… but also mentions lots of church… so she does not code switch from who she-can be, sound like, express freedoms-on the street VS when in a church service??? or does trying to frame things through [stereotypical] black/white trees, she misses the forest of interaction in which she fluidly navigates as different selves.

Advancing racists perceptions, that her differences are Black… Like all black folks do this thing vs that white thing. It's "black" to be brash, loud, partying, uncredentialled, etc... it comes down to a class thing, a where-you-personally-feel-comfy thing. A non-Ivied white person from "Sackler" Appalachia "East side" would have as much trouble fitting in... i just googled Deesha: married a white dude (but given how race keeps coming up, given a throw away mention vs any depth. is he "8-Mile" or "Friends" white)?!? how "same" we all may be when you get out of your myopic cultural bubble.

Throw away mention per pre-diabetes... Let go of those cultural things literally killing you. embrace those things that will help you: slim down--a lot, via healthy eating and vigorous exercise NOT a pill or scalpel... highlight discipline, diligence, curiosity, compromise, accommodation, flexibility... and gasp, conformity, when it suits a more productive/prosperous future

[Lady Katie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am so thankful to Goodreads for this giveaway book. I am thrilled to have it! I love a good strong female about whom to read.

Who will enjoy this book: women, black people, people interested in democratic politics, and people looking for encouragement.

Who will not enjoy this book: those who claim a conservative political perspective and people who are offended by foul language (although it isn't all throughout the book, there is some cursing).

I enjoyed reading this book. I liked learning what it's like to work in the White House, at a number of levels.

As for the layout, I liked that the beginning of each chapter was on the right-hand side of the page. That made navigating the book easy. I also appreciate that even the first page of each chapter had a page number, again making it easy to orient myself in the book.


Although, I don't claim a political party, myself, I have most enjoyed the bit retelling the celebration after Obama's first presidential win. The unity it brought about in Ms. Dyer's community was most heartwarming.

Going to boarding school at age 9, must have been very scary. Miss Dyer handled that with grace (more grace than I might have shown), and that likely made her more fearless in some respects. Ms. Dyer, in her adult life, took a lot of risks. I felt a lot of empathy for 9-year-old Deesha.

Her former employer was very generous to her! They must have known how exceptional she was!

On page 29, Ms. Dyer said something that related to my own experiences.

"Accomplishments can be motivation, but when you depend on them, it can become an addiction to always compete, compare, and be perfect--all in a quest to find your value."

On pages 138-139, Ms. Dyer relayed my own thoughts about myself (except that I've never worked in the White House.

"I decided pretty early in my White House career that I didn't want to compromise the parts of myself that made other people uncomfortable because I didn't operate in the confines of the box the built for me."

She also said that she was unwilling to be quiet when she had questions of concerns, which is a quality I admire and share. It seems to get me in trouble, though, when I ask questions or express concerns, or even try to be helpful.

I am glad she found people who love and support her. It makes me hopeful that I can find those people for myself.



I found the book encouraging and hopeful. I think it would make a wonderful book club pick, you know, for the right book club!

[Bookworm · Rating 2 out of 5]

I borrowed this book on a whim, because I liked the idea of being able to work at the White House despite not having the "credentials" that might be "expected." So while that was cool, then comes with the very different experience of being someone who is a little older, who does not have those same connection, who does not know the "ins" and "outs of being a DC insider or knowing the people who are.

Dyer becomes Social Secretary but this all goes along with learning what "imposter syndrome" really is, how to navigate that dynamic, and how to give and accept grace along this journey. This was not without the pitfalls (including it becomes harmful to her health), which is unfortunate and also explains how and why it can be really difficult to work in a job like working in a presidential administration.

It's an important book for chronicling her time at the White House as well as talking about what a journey like hers could look like (and that you do not have to follow that same path!). But I found it very messy: was it a self-help book talking about finding your place and confidence or was it a chronicle of her time at he White House? I had been under the impression that it was the latter so I was honestly a little bored at the talk of imposter syndrome.

Don't get me wrong: it's an extremely important conversation as we move forward and there perhaps should be fewer Ivy League grads and more "non-traditional" people who work at the WH but it did at feel like there were separate books being written here.Maybe it was a publisher's decision to want more of one or the other but it also made reading the book a little frustrating.

There's an audience for this book and I wish her well. I do hope we do get more of these stories for future federal employees, as our future administrations and presidents are going to look a lot more like Dyer than Joe Biden. I would recommend this as a library borrow, though.

[Artem Vardanian · Rating 2 out of 5]

An Honest Look, But Lacks Depth

While the book offers an inspiring message of perseverance for young Black women facing imposter syndrome, it suffers from repetitiveness and unnecessary fillers

The central theme of overcoming self-doubt is commendable. However, the narrative becomes monotonous due to constant reiteration of the author's imposter syndrome experience.

The audiobook narration, while functional, lacks the emotional connection that could elevate the listening experience.

Furthermore, some details raise questions. The claim of working at the "highest level of the federal government" seems incongruous with the description of event management duties.

The financial situation presented is also puzzling. A social secretary position with a significant salary of $118,000 (potentially leaving around $80,000 after taxes) and minimal expenses suggests a comfortable financial standing. However, the author's statement about savings after 2 years, mentioning $8,000 (including an unused vacation compensation), raise doubts about financial literacy. Given the reported income, no family, no car payments, inexpensive rent, and presumably three meals a day at the White House, the lack of substantial savings is unclear.

So maybe it's not just imposter syndrome after all, but a genuine question about lack of basic finacial skills?

Despite these shortcomings, the book offers a valuable takeaway: with determination, even unconventional paths can lead to success. However, the message could be strengthened by delving deeper into imposter syndrome's complexities and providing practical advice on navigating professional challenges.

Recommendation:
This book might resonate with readers seeking a general message of encouragement. However, those looking for a nuanced exploration of imposter syndrome or practical career advice may find it lacking.

[Grace Silva · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to netgalley and Grand Central Publishing for a digital arc in exchange for an honest review.

Deesha Dyer's Undiplomatic takes the audience along with her as she works her way from Philly to an internship with the White House all the way to Social Secretary in the Obama administration, while examining the all-too familiar feeling of imposter syndrome.

Overall, I really enjoyed Undiplomatic. Dyer has a clear, very engaging voice that makes it easy to fly through the novel itself. She never loses her integrity throughout it, opening herself up to vulnerable moments and memories. She doesn't shy away either from her own negative traits, instead calling herself out for what they are and why she acted a certain why—but also taking a critical look at where these ideas come from.

It was a bit more self-help-y than I personally realized, which threw me off. This isn't a slight on the memoir itself, but I did find myself taken aback at the amount of advice that was given, until I realized the billing also included self-help.

I think my only critique is that I wanted Dyer to stay a bit more in the pocket of certain memories. She has a beautiful way of reflecting but there were chapters that felt a bit rushed or glossed over. There's so much that she briefly references—especially when discussing how she worked to over come the imposter syndrome—but I felt like we needed a bit more extrapolation and explanation.

There were also a few grammar/editing errors, but I assume those will be cleaned up by the release date.

Overall, I did really enjoy Undiplomatic! I just felt like there were missed opportunities to really dig deeper into the memoir.

[Madeline · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had the privilege of experiencing one of Deesha's speaking engagements at a fundraising conference in Philadelphia a few years ago. She was engaging, funny, and honest. Her speech touched on imposter syndrome (the common denominator of this memoir) but what I remember most is her unconventional path towards a life of public service. I was working for an HIV-focused non-profit at the time and her journey began as an HIV community activist. I remember her saying during the presentation that "'Social impact' is the new gentrified term for doing what you're supposed to do." Amen.

This memoir is different. It focuses on her internal struggle with imposter syndrome, self-worth, and people-pleasing--to the point of sacrificing her own health at times. It is honest, well-written and immensely relatable, despite her not-at-all traditional career. If you can relate to those internal struggles, this book is for you--it's nice to feel seen. Also, if you are interested in politics, the inner-workings of D.C., and the Obama family, it's a great fit for you, too!

My only critique is I feel that there were parts of her story that were missing. By the end, Deesha mentions she's put in a lot of work and therapy hours in overcoming her struggles. However, I would have liked to see that journey as well. Especially since the thesis of the book is an immensely relatable topic.

I am grateful for the free ARC Kindle copy that was provided to me by NetGalley and Legacy Lit. All opinions are my own.

[Jamie Cha · Rating 4 out of 5]

I give the book 4.5 stars. I received this book from Netgalley in exchange for a fair review. I am a huge Obama fan, so I was excited to read this book. I had never heard of Deesha but the story sounded amazing. I was really hooked on Deesha's story.

The author's story was so relatable to me. I am a white woman but could really relate to her imposter syndrome. I was, also, hooked on how amazing this woman was before even going to the white house.

The book was part self help and her story. I felt her rooting for the reader by carefully telling her story. Her story was very authentic and real.

The book covers everything that has happened to the world in the last decade. She talks about Obama, Trump, covid, Black Lives Matter, and more. It brought me back to everything we, as a society, has gone through recently.

It's a book that has a happy ending. She goes through a lot ( if are honest, most of us have gone through a lot too). She encouraged us to take care of ourselves in all ways.

The books target audience is probably young black women. I loved the book. I think there is something for everyone in this book. I can't wait to read her next book.

[Lit_Vibrations · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a MUST READ‼️ Without credentials or connections, community college student and advocate Deesha Dyer navigated her imposter syndrome, landing one of the most exclusive positions in the White House.

Loved reading about Deesha’s experience and journey to the White House. How often is a regular day person without a political background given the opportunity to intern at the White House? Not many but sus applied, got the role, turned it into a permanent position, and showed everyone why she deserved to be the Social secretary‼️

She spoke on so many themes throughout the book from chronic imposter syndrome, finding her place in the world, overcoming doubt, her educational/ career background, abortion, relationships, the effects music has on our culture, and of course what lead up to her applying for the internship and working at the White House. This book and her personal story proves nothing is out of reach for a dreamer. Had she allowed doubt and the assumptions of others to get in the way of her potential she wouldn’t be where she is today.

Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed reading this. Not only was her story inspiring but it was such a joy hearing from someone that I could relate to. There were even a few moments I laughed out loud. Imagine meeting Barack Obama for the first time and you blow it. Her attempt to make a good impression resulted in her suggesting she could jump off the plane in midair like girl what lmao. If you’re looking for another great memoir you found it and check out the custom playlist curated by the author on Spotify. Special thanks to the author & @legacylitbooks for my gifted copy‼️

[Rhonda · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a good read! I loved Deesha’s story, and the look into her life leading up to her time in the White House as well as the inner workings of what she did there. She has a unique voice that pulled me in and made me want to keep reading.

In a way, this book left me wanting more. It felt like a very high-level overview of her life, and I wanted more details of just about everything—from her time at MHS to the actual work she did at the White House. At the same time, I didn’t feel like I learned much about impostor syndrome—either how it affected her or how to overcome it. Rather than diving into how certain situations made her feel, it was a “welp, that was my impostor syndrome” and she’d move on to the next thing. I would have liked a deeper look, to see how she really felt about it and how she pushed through to eventually overcome it. It would go a long way in helping people understand their own and work through those limiting beliefs to get to the point she was at at the end of the book—not letting it hurt her mindset and hold her back.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[OoohGoshTara Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this memoir. What an amazing journey from a college drop out with zero connections to holding a highly coveted job in the White House. Deesha's journey wouldn't be considered typical but oh it's truly inspiring. And just goes to show that there is no one way to get where you're going as long as you get there. Often as Black women we share some similar experiences. If we deviate from "the plan" whatever that plan is we're often left filled with self doubt, struggle fitting into spaces not accepting of us as we are. Who of us hasn't had to deal with microaggressions in school and the workplace. I found Deesha's memoir easy to read and relatable. Deesha offers self reflection and introspection throughout her memoir. We get a peek into her lived experiences. I love how open and honest she was. The novel makes you feel like you're catching up with an old friend. Kudos to her making her own way when odds are so very often stacked against Black women and overcoming any obstacle thrown her way.

[Natalie · Rating 5 out of 5]

We love a good trouble maker.

Deesha Dyer was an underdog. She was 31 without a degree or connections when she applied for the White House internship. With zero expectations for a callback, she couldn’t believe when she got an interview or when she landed the job. That internship changed her life.

Despite grit and a blossoming career, Deesha’s imposter syndrome haunted her in each new position. I think there’s something for everyone laced in these pages. Thanks to her candidness and vulnerability, I saw a bit of myself in her as she struggled to see her own successes and recognize her right to be in that space. It’s always inspiring to hear the stories of badass women!

What a great read! I love a good memoir and it’s not often that we get to hear about the inner-workings of the White House. Not me perusing the job postings to see what’s out there after finishing this—maybe in another life. 🤪

tw: racism, mention of miscarriage, mention of abortion

[Cristina Artis]

Undiplomatic by Deesha Dyer is truly the story of an "underdog". I say that lightly with all the intention to mean that it does not matter where you start, you just need to start to get to the place that is your wildest dreams. I so appreciated this narrative work, I related so much in being from Philly myself and just feeling out of place in a lot of rooms that I have been in so far in my life. It takes courage and perserverance to stay there not only to show others that you can handle the "hard" things but to prove it to yourself to in the midst of imposter syndrome especially as a black woman in America. Thank you for sharing your story Deesha and I am sad to say I was not aware of you and your work as social secretary while you held the position, but am grateful that you made the choice to share your story. Thank you to NetGalley and Hachette Publishing Group for this ARC.

[Emy Makakalala · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.8 - I love how Deesha articulates feelings that I’ve experienced yet struggled to put into words, especially around the scaricity mindset inherited from being the first/only black woman / first gen / etc in the room. It is clear through this book the central role that her imposter syndrome has had throughout her life. I wish it didn’t only center around the imposter syndrome but also around how Deesha learned to trust her gut and the mental models that she developed with time to be where she is today. Many of the decisions feel binary when they are often more nuanced. For eg: how did she build trust at the White House with different individuals? What were the trade-offs she had to make and what was the impact of these? At what point could she put her foot on the ground to start changing the status quo? She is undeniably remarkable, the book missed some of these learnings.

[Juniper Lee · Rating 3 out of 5]

I put this audiobook on hold before it came out. I then listened to one of my podcasts, Hysteria, and surprise! Deesha Dyer was a guest on the pod! I was so pumped when my hold was delivered and I started listening to it.

While I really liked this biography, I can’t help but feel a little “meh” about it overall, because I wanted more White House TEA! I liked Dyer’s perspective overall and there were some moments where I felt teary about her journey. Dyer is such a likeable person, which made this such a good listen. It was so wild to hear her journeys with abortion medical care in the Obama age too. Like wow, you could just. Go out and not worry about getting a medical abortion done. Wild.

While I do think this is an inspirational, uplifting biography, I did indeed want more tea.

[Kim Topper shorb · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. I was interested in it because I thought hearing about inside the White House stories would be fascinating but it was so much more. It was an extremely candid and inspiring adventure of an amazing woman. One particular quote really hit me hard. So much so that I wrote it down for future inspiration. I would recommend this book to anyone who's ever felt less than, unworthy or not enough. I am so appreciative of Netgalley offering me a free advanced digital copy of this wonderful book. Highly recommended.