Nick Offerman came to Ann Arbor’s own Michigan Theater to start his book tour for his newest work, "Good Clean Fun." It was an evening of hilarity, real advice, learning, and tomfoolery. What else could one expect from Offerman?
He was kind, funny, and made sure to meet every single person. And he made sure to look you in the eye while he shook your hand firmly, and say “Nice to meet you.” There's a lesson in here.
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For those who weren't lucky enough to be there in person, here's some of the highlights of the evening.
His advice to budding journalists:
“Be true. Find the truth. There’s more to life than a meme. It might not be as fun, but only write the truth. The world needs more truth-tellers.”
On politics:
“Ron Swanson is a feminist. There’s no other way to be. A business man is not a politician. These things should be obvious.”
Business cards are important.
Especially when they're printed on some seriously high quality cardstock.
His advice on love:
“Learn and know when to just shut up. Be okay with learning lessons from each other. Accept when you’re wrong.”
On being the best:
“Other people are better at other things. A woman is the strongest person in my shop. This is good, and normal. Know your strengths. Ask for help. Improve yourself.”
Friendship is important.
And we got ours Swanson/Offerman-approved, "Angie, do you by chance know Lynn? Yes? Good.”
On music:
“Music will set the scene. Choose wisely. What is good at the end of the day is not good at the beginning of the day. My woodshop knows this.”
On becoming an actor:
“It was liberating to finally get a role in which I said more than one line. Be thankful for your past because it will lead you to your present. My past in these roles and set building brought me to my wife, and to Ron Swanson. Work hard.”
Sharing meals curates collective health.
Yes, there are recipes in his new book. All Offerman-Approved. Yes, I will be making them.
On photography:
“Just learn to live in the moment. Okay? This is a moment. Live in it. Put your phone away. Just live in the moment.”
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On learning:
“The best way to learn is by simply doing. Making things with your hands is the best way.”
On meeting new people:
“Be in the moment. I want to know my people. It’s my favorite part of this.”
