A New York Times bestseller! It’s never too late to unearth your hidden passions, rewrite your story, and live with a renewed purpose. Former Today show host Kathie Lee Gifford shares stories from her remarkable life in a beautiful reminder that God is still dreaming big for our years ahead. When Kathie Lee Gifford stepped down as cohost of the fourth hour of the Today show with Hoda Kotb, you might have thought her best days were behind her...but it turns out that she was just getting started. As Kathie Lee says, “I’m not retiring; I’m refiring!” Taking us from her Chesapeake Bay childhood when she first heard God’s calling, to her skyrocketing fame with Regis, to her decision to leave television for Nashville, Kathie Lee inspires us to pursue what really matters. Because it’s never too late to forgive, to dance the cha-cha, or to make a difference in the world. God placed His dreams in your heart for a reason. And like Kathie Lee, you might just discover that the best is yet to come. Whether you’re an empty nester, newly single, navigating a career change, or just eager for any change, Kathie Lee helps you hear God’s loving calling. It’s Never Too Late includes: Is it time for you to rewrite your story, unearth your hidden passions, and live with a renewed purpose? It’s never too late.
Kathryn Lee Gifford (born Epstein, previously Johnson; born August 16, 1953) is an American television host, singer, songwriter, author, comedian, and actress. She is the co-host, with Hoda Kotb, of The Kathie Lee and Hoda Show, the fourth hour of NBC Today. She is best known for her 15-year run (1985–2000) on the talk show Live! with Regis and Kathie Lee, which she co-hosted with Regis Philbin. She has received 11 Daytime Emmy nominations and won her first Daytime Emmy in 2010 as part of the Today team. Gifford's first television role had been as Tom Kennedy's singer/sidekick on the syndicated version of Name That Tune, from 1974 to 1978. She also occasionally appears on the first three hours of Today and is a contributing NBC News correspondent.
Kathie Lee married Paul Johnson, a Christian composer/arranger/producer/publisher in 1976. After their divorce in 1982, she married sportscaster and former NFL player Frank Gifford in 1986. He died in 2015. Kathie Lee has released a number of studio albums and written a number of books.
Before listening to this audiobook I had heard of Kathie Lee Gifford and 'The Today Show' (thanks to the entertainment news shows) but wasn't aware of who she really was. This audiobook, which is narrated by Kathie Lee herself, has given me a glimpse of who she is and what I found inspiring is her positive outlook on life, career and faith despite going through her own fair share of bad experiences. Also, can I just say I fell in love with her voice too....it is so soothing, warm and endearing I really could listen to her for hours!
My thanks to NetGalley, the publisher Thomas Nelson/ W Publishing and the author Kathie Lee Gifford for the audio-ARC of the book.
I felt as if this author and I were sitting down in comfy chairs, drinking coffee, and sharing from the heart, life experiences and how they affected us. What has kept this author sane is the fact that she has stayed true to herself and her faith. I loved the honest approach in which she shares the happy, sad, glad, bad and everything in between. She talks about how the Lord called her and she followed. She could not have orchestrated important meetings and opportunities that came her way. Even when everyone thought she might be foolish to do what she felt lead to do. Kathie had a peace about listening to that still small voice. She took courage and answered the call. She was never sorry! She said, “…little is much when God is in it.”
I loved how she shared Devine moments that changed the course of her life and encouraged her when she needed it most. I was surprised to hear about the people she was able to meet and work with. She is an inspiration to all in following your heart, and your dreams. She reveals things about her childhood, her parents, her first marriage, about knowing she was supposed to be in show biz and how hard it was. Living in the limelight, getting falsely accused in the tabloids and how it felt being in the public eye through it all. Kathie says this about tabloids,” It doesn’t really matter if any of it is true or not; all that matters is that it sells. And it will sell until the next person arrives on the scene and it starts all over again under a new name.”
“If I hadn’t been able to hold on to my own truth through all the viciousness of those years, I’d be in the Betty Ford Center, or in prison, or dead. But I didn’t let the headlines define me. I battled every day to keep reminding myself that only god could do that. And every day I clung for dear life to what His word said about me.”
This book has it all, it is encouraging, funny, heart-felt and a must read when you think it’s too late to start something new, follow a dream, and learn a new skill. It is not over till it’s over! The author has that right. Thanks to this author for her encouragement during these hard times. I’m thankful for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”
Nora St. Laurent TBCN Where Book Fun Begins! The Book Club Network blog www.bookfun.org
Thank you NetGalley for giving me this wonderful book in exchange for my honest review.
What can I say about this wonderful wonderful book written with so much warmth, faith and love. This was my first book by Kathie Lee Gifford and every minute that I spent reading this book, made my heart happy. It was like listening to her whole life in just 4 hours. But there was so much more. What an amazing strong lady! I loved this so much. ♥️ Truly mesmerised me.
I didn't know that much about Kathy Lee. I remember the little things and she talked about them all. Her marriage, befriending the Kardashians, her line of clothes at Walmart, and did you know that she used to open for Bill Cosby when he did stand up? She also spoke about her amazing relationship with God. All throughout her life, through ups and downs, her relationship never wavered. She prayed for so many people and helped others in so many different ways. I loved listening to her voice as the narrator. It was as though I was sitting on her porch, just listening to her discuss her life.
Surprisingly candid and inspiring, I sincerely enjoyed listening to this audio book, read by the author herself. Kathie Lee's life has been far more interesting than I would have imagined. This is told as a memoir, in a series of personal essays. I was quite inspired by her deep faith. She tells of many experiences in her life, some joyful and some heartbreaking and the fact that she has needed Jesus to get through them all. I was surprised at how touching I found this to be, and just how much I enjoyed it.
Narrated by Kathie Lee herself makes you feel like you've pulled up a chair and cup of coffee for a chat and encouragement.
Biography-ish and encouragement of listening to the Holy Spirit. Gifford has kept her faith during her career in the media and stardom since she was 12 years old. And actually admired by her colleagues for it.
As a gifted writer she has been offered many opportunities in life and feels blessed by God. She is an honest and heartwarming listen. Her many friends, and love of her life Frank, are mentioned and used as examples.
I only knew her name and that she had appeared on televisions shows and I picked this up from my library wanting to know more about her. I felt like this book is more memoir than an inspirational book, It did provide me with a better understanding of her as both a celebrity and a woman of faith.
I selected this book because I am a HUGE Kathie Lee fan. I have always admired Kathie Lee's extraordinary talent, affable personality, strength, persistence, and strong family values.
"Longevity" is not easy in the entertainment industry and Kathie Lee has nailed this. Yes, Kathie Lee's book truly gives readers insight into how/why Kathie Lee has achieved long-term success. In spite of the fact that Kathie Lee's life has taken many twists and turns, her willingness to take chances, pivot (leaving "Regis and Kathie Lee" and "Today"), and overcome obstacles are just some of the many reasons why Kathie Lee is the icon she is today.
Kathie Lee shares "all" about the "rock-bottom" times in her life-- (her first marriage, K-Mart scandal, Frank Gifford's cheating), and this was very inspirational Also shared in this book was more information on her last visit with Regis and her relationship with the Kardashians. Who would know that Kathie Lee first met Kris Jenner in a Bible Study class??? Yes, Kris Jenner used to go to Bible Study classes!
Before listening to this book, I knew that Kathie Lee was a singer in her early career but I did not know that she was a songwriter, too. Throughout the book, Kathie Lee shares her songs with readers.
I listened to the audio version of this book that was read by Kathie Lee. I always love it when memoir authors read their own books and Kathie Lee's superb narration did not disappoint. Kathie Lee is a talented storyteller on so many levels.
This book did not earn 5-stars from me because it contained too much information about Kathie Lee's Christian beliefs. I respect Kathie Lee's religious beliefs and her strong faith in God and I realize that Kathie Lee's faith is a very important part of who she is. However, I felt that since at least 30% of this book referenced Kathie Lee's religious beliefs, that readers should have been warned upfront about this. Perhaps this fact should have been mentioned on the book's cover and/or this book should be classified as a Christian memoir. Quite frankly, I felt like I was blindsided because reading so much information about Christianity was just not what I signed up for.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
It’s Never Too Late, by Kathie Lee Gifford, is a memoir filled of encouragement, love, and inspirational stories. She looks back at events in her life that challenged and changed her, both professionally and personally. She shares life lessons with empathy and compassion.
Kathie Lee was raw and authentic in her stories. I recommend the audio version as Kathie Lee, with her smooth voice, narrates it herself. The pacing is perfect, and her impersonations are hilarious.
This book presents her as human, and relying on her faith, she shares the peaks and valleys of her life. She has touched so many people. You will be pleasantly surprised at how many people are referenced in the book! By listening to this book, she touched mine. I looked forward to listening to it and was always left feeling better when I was done. It was certainly inspirational and good for my soul!
Thank you NETGALLEY, Kathie Lee Gifford and Thomas Nelson W Publishing for this ARC, in exchange for my honest review. ❤️️
Never would I have thought that I'd be excited and raving about reading a Kathie Lee Gifford book! Don't get me wrong. I loved her on Regis and Kathie Lee. She was hilarious, and I was shocked when she left. But I never really connected with her or watching her material outside of the live show. Until I saw her on an interview on a short-lived day time talk show....I don't remember whose, maybe Meghan Kelly's. And I was enthralled by how real she was and how boldly she talked about her faith. That wasn't a side of her I'd ever seen before.
But that is the side of her that I got in this book. Real. Authentic. And Bold.
What an amazing life she has led. I really had no idea that she was such a faith-filled woman her entire life. She say for Kathryn Kuhlman. Later she wrote a play Amy Semple McPherson. Wow! These are bold women of faith whom I grew up hearing about but had no idea Kathie Lee Gifford knew they at all.
Here is the fault of the media and the way celebrities are portrayed....or oftentimes feel like they have to portray themselves....their true self, true nature, gets squashed below the media line, and only what media qualifies as interesting or important is shown. Like Kathie Lee always drinking wine......
They've made almost made her out to be a bimbo over the years....but she has such depth. She's fun. She hilarious, actually. She's interesting. She's grace-filled (both in character and in her faith). Despite the shows that she hosted and the "gossip train" that TV made her look like, she didn't say a bad word about any celebrities in this book. In fact, even when she had something unkind to say, she would always back it up with how human they were or with a story that taught her to look passed one experience with someone (like Tammy Baker).
I found it interesting, too, because she wrote an entire chapter about how we should never solely believe what television and media is telling us about celebrities and people. In that chapter, she listed several names (include Donald Trump). She also wrote an entire chapter on the Kardashians, with similar undertones.
It always makes me laugh when I read reviews from readers of celebrity memoirs who are annoyed that the author name dropped so much or talked so highly of themselves. I mean, that's the name of the game...and also probably the reason you picked up the book. But Kathie name drops, and you don't even feel like she did. This was her life. Her world. It was no different than me talking about my friends and interesting stories I have with them. And that just makes her feel real. I mean, celebrities are human too. Don't you know?
Anyway, as shocked as I am, I absolutely LOVED this book. Loved it.
>>>Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an advanced reader copy for review. My opinions are my own.
I had no idea what to expect from Its Not Over by Kathie Lee Gifford, but was completely taken by surprise and have to say, I absolutely loved it! What a delightful, refreshing story. I listened to this book on audio and Kathie Lee herself narrated it, which made it feel all the more authentic and personal.
The premise is one that particularly peaked my interest, the concept being that you’re never too old to dream, even when you’ve lost the motivation or youthful energy and ambition to do so. You continue to look for joy and the fullness of life; to seek out opportunities to live, love and share God’s goodness at any and every phase. Kathie Lee’s graciousness and love for others radiates through her stories and her outlook is truly inspirational. Her exuberance for living is evident on every page of this book as she recounts her memories shared with her friends (many of whom are name-drop worthy) and experiences in life.
It’s Never Too Late is a moving and heartfelt book filled with encouraging vignettes about Kathie Lee; but all stories that point to her loving Savior, Jesus. Her style is relatable and familiar even though she has lived a truly awe-inspiring life. This was just the book I needed and I hope to read it again in the future.
I remember Kathie Lee Gifford when she was on Good Morning America, and I've followed her career through the years. I've heard her mention her faith on TV, but this book reveals just how important it has been in her life. Gifford shares her ups and downs, her triumphs and her failures, and she's credits God with the fantastic opportunities she's been given. She talks honestly about her marriages, her life with Frank Gifford, and the joy of being a mother to Cody and Cassidy. She also praises two former co-workers who became her best friends, Hoda Kotb and the the late Regis Philbin.
It's Never Too Late is a memoir, but I also consider it a motivational journal. Gifford writes as though she's giving a pep talk, as she urges readers to follow their hearts and their dreams. If a different path needs to be taken, don't be afraid, and never give up on those dreams! I thoroughly enjoyed this heartwarming book that is filled with memories, faith, inspiration, and encouragement, and I have a whole new respect for Kathie Lee Gifford!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher via FrontGate Media. There was no obligation for a positive review. These are my own thoughts.
This is the second book authored by Kathy Lee Gifford that I’ve read. Her books always catch my eye because I know that they’re going to include the role that her faith plays in her life. It read a bit more like a memoir than what I expected, but I enjoyed her stories and the message that she was trying to communicate in each one of them. There were some sweet and poignant moments in the stories, and I appreciated her willingness to share them. Thank you to #netgalley and #thomasnelsonpublishing and #wpublishing for the ALC of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
Wonderful autobiography by Kathie Lee. Stories of her beginnings in the entertainment business, as well as the projects she has worked on and created. Inspiring and biblical words and advice. She shares from the heart. I loved her song lyrics and poems. So glad I read her autobiography.
Encouraging .. a bit exhausting .. as KLG tackles quite a range of big projects ! What enthusiasm ! and does she have a bit of ADHD i wonder. An engrossing read with nice short “complete story” chapters. There is something for everyone in this book. I was introduced to (and subsequently watched)The God Who Sees video with Nicole C Mullins. Nice job KLG ! It was filmed in Israel & Jordan.
If you are looking for a self-help book to motivate you as you age, this isn’t the right book for you. But if you’re looking for a memoir of inspirational events in the life of a well-known fellow believer who has walked with God for decades, then Kathie Lee Gifford’s book, “It’s never too late,” might be just the ticket. Of course, due to Gifford’s celebrity, many of us are well acquainted with some facets of her life. Yet this book delves more deeply into the spiritual motivation behind her career and personal decisions. She also has a unique vantage point of ministering to other celebrity icons and the stories included help the reader realize despite riches or fame, ultimately we all need Jesus. I do wish she had shared more about her failures and heartbreaks and how to overcome them and go on. It was an interesting and insightful read, especially for those of us a bit older who remember her journey through the years.
I never would have picked this up if a friend didn’t hand it to me. I almost felt obligated to read it; so I thought, “What the heck!” Immediately, I loved it! Heartfelt, hope-filled, God-Centered, inspiring, and interesting!
I flipped on the fireplace and read this in a day. Very unlike me to punt ALL plans for a book. It was like sitting down with a dear friend and talking heart-to-heart all afternoon (and evening!) Kathie Lee shares joys, sorrows, memories, lessons learned, advice, and her faith. Warm and inviting, gentle, and encouraging. A day well-spent!
It’s Never Too Late by Kathie Lee Gifford is a wonderful book that I have truly enjoyed and taken to heart. This book is a memoir and through her stories and experiences, Kathie gives the reader a true treasure trove of motherly (or sisterly) advice.
I have always loved and respected Kathie Lee Gifford. I always enjoyed her on GMA and Regis and Kathie Lee. What I did not know (and I know this is bad, but better late then never!) was how much of a generous and sweet soul that she truly has. Through her shared stories, we can see some of the peaks and valleys to her life, how she has learned from them, and all that she has done to keep herself, her family and loved ones, and her soul with purpose and on the right path. Sure she has made mistakes, she is the first to admit them, but that makes her even more endearing. Despite the obstacles in her life, the losses, and the hiccups, she has stayed strong, positive, and passionate in her faith. She is not just a talented singer, songwriter, actress, reporter, producer, director, and TV personality, but she is a genuine Christian with strong values that she shares with everyone she can. She is wise beyond her years.
To say that this book has stirred something within me would be to diminish the feelings that I have experienced from reading this. It has truly spoken to me, she has spoken to me, and I feel that I have been led to read her book now, at this time, for a reason. I cannot thank her enough for this amazing outreach and I hope that others will be changed by reading this book as well.
I have already pre-ordered a physical copy and I have to say this is my favorite book this year. Like the favorite. I am so glad that I had the privilege of having this book enter my life at this time. It was just what I needed. I hope others feel the same.
Thank you Kathie, and Bless you and your family.
5/5 stars. Excellent, life-changing book.
Thank you EW and Thomas Nelson for this wonderful ARC and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I am posting this review to my GR, Instagram, and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 12/1/20.
Enjoyed reading the snippets of Kathie Lee's life and her commitment to faith is admirable and inspiring. However, I was expecting more practical tips for living life as a woman of a certain age.
Did not finish. What I read was very superficial--I was hoping for information about "how to make the next act the best act of my life," but it must have been in the portion I skipped.
IT’S NEVER TOO LATE was sent to me by Net Galley, free of charge, in exchange for my honest review. Thomas Nelson was the publisher for this Christian memoir by Kathie Lee Gifford. Her foreword was written by Dolly Parton. Both of these lovely ladies are very special to me. I’ve kept up with them since I was young. I followed Kathie Lee on THE REGIS AND KATHIE LEE SHOW (seldom missed an episode). Then, I watched her on THE TODAY SHOW. And, now, I watch all of her films and listen to her music. Of course, I had to listen to the audiobook of her memoir, IT’S NEVER TOO LATE! She is one precious lady. In her memoir, she tells of her childhood in Chesapeake Bay. She tells about how, after a difficult first marriage, she met, fell in love with, and married Frank Gifford, the athlete and, later, sport’s announcer. She tells about how hard his indiscretion was for her and how she was able to forgive him. And, she tells us how difficult it was to lose the love of her life. She tells us the true story about the “sweat shop scandal” that she went through. I love how passionate she spoke of her time with REGIS AND KATHIE LEE, and how she loved Regis and Joy Philbin…how hard it was when he passed, as well. She told us how she came to be on the TODAY SHOW with Hoda Kotbe, and how she became known for her glass of wine on the set each day. She even spoke of why she left after so many years. I loved her quote for the book, “I’m not retiring. I’m retiring”. This was when we learned of her current undertakings as a musician, an actress, and a producer. I promise you, you WANT TO read this book or listen to this audiobook (narrated by Kathie Lee, herself). It is so inspiring!! I RECOMMEND THIS BOOK!
A lovely book that renewed my faith in God's creation
Kathie Lee opened my eyes to the people around her and me. Her way of "writing as if talking right to me" was so easy to read. I loved her humor laced with emotions as she spoke of how God has directed her path through her career. I would recommend this book to anyone who wants to learn more about her life. I had a preconceived notions she was a drunken fool from a couple of times I saw her on God's and Kathie Lee, but she wasn't and isn't one. She is a wonderful woman of God who let's him lead her to her next adventure. I was truly blessed by her words. Because knowing God is just like knowing a friend. Someone who will lead you on the path he has planned for you. Helping you through the dark forests and into the beautiful clearing. Someone asked her, " How can you be a Christian and work in Hollywood? " Her profound answer was, "How could I not be a Christian and work in Hollywood!". Being a Christian doesn't mean separating oneself from the world, it means living in the world and shining Jesus' light in those dark forests so others can see him and his love for them . He was the Son of God but he didn't let that go to his head. He loved everyone he came in contact with. Just the same way Kathie Lee has done. Thank you Kathie for shining your light through your words, music, and movies!
First I have to thank NetGalley , Thomas Nelson; W Publishing and Kathie Lee for a copy of this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
This audiobook, narrated by Kathie Lee herself was a game changer for me! I will be honest and say that I was not a fan of Kathie Lee, I've watched her on TV and thought she was a loud mouthed know it all. But as I learned from reading this book you can't judge a person by their cover, or how tv portrays them. Kathie Lee is a faithful, loving , caring and honest person and it shows when you listen or read this book. I enjoyed her truthful stories about her life and her faith in God during all of it. Having a new found faith I can truly appreciate her insight and found myself nodding along several times in the book. She seems like a true gem and I would love to have a friend like her, not to mention the energy she has! Recommended for those fans of autobiographies, Christian Non-Fiction and celebrity tell alls. I just might have to check out her other books! And movies, and music... whew!