Podcast & Book Reviews

August 13, 2025

Book Review | Greenlights by Matthew McConaughey

Greenlights by Matthew McConaughey

Greenlights by Matthew McConaughey is not a memoir per se but a collection of stories, insights and philosophies. Surprisingly, the book covers a collection of his writings, which he started at the age of 15.

McConaughey’s journey is unconventional at best, and his approach to seeking “greenlights” is quite fascinating, from spending a gap year in Warnervale on the Central Coast of NSW, to studying at the University of Texas, where he commenced a law degree, before switching to film school. As he shares his journey into Hollywood and global travels, you start to understand his approach to life and how he avoids “red lights”.

It's remarkable what he was able to achieve, from living in a trailer to earning an Oscar to re-evaluating his career and turning down $14 million movie offers to stay true to himself.

Ultimately, Greenlights is about catching more green lights by creating them for yourself, embracing life's detours, and trusting the process. Even if you’re not a fan, it’s an easy read, packed with his life lessons on persistence and humility, often delivered via catchphrases or post-it notes.

Link to Book

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