‘Accidental First Lady’ Kerry Kriseman on Public Service Behind the Scenes

In this week’s episode, we’re taking a look at public service from a slightly different perspective. Co-host Ryan Coonerty talks with Kerry Kriseman, wife of former NewDEAL Leader St. Petersburg, FL Mayor Rick Kirseman. She joins us to discuss her new book Accidental First Lady: On the Front Lines and Behind the Scenes of Local Politics, where she writes about the highs and lows of integrating public service into her family’s life. They discuss how Kerry approached her role as a political spouse and how she and her family navigated some of the more difficult moments of their life in the public eye, including an antisemitic attack on her son. They also talk about some of the rewards and once-in-a-lifetime opportunities that come with the job. Tune in to this conversation for lessons Kerry learned, suggestions for survival, and tips for crafting a rewarding life in the public eye for anyone (and their partner) thinking of becoming an elected official.