Wiser Than Me with Julia Louis-Dreyfus Wiser Than Me with Julia Louis-Dreyfus

Julia Gets Wise with Governor Janet Mills

May 20, 2026

Summary

Julia Louis-Dreyfus interviews Maine Governor Janet Mills, who discusses her "see you in court" defiance of Trump’s executive orders and her pandemic leadership. Mills shares personal stories, including escaping domestic violence, her unconventional path from Republican family to Democratic governor, and the camaraderie among female governors. The episode highlights themes of kindness, resilience, and standing up to bullies.

Topics discussed

Intro: Kindness, TV recommendations, and political climate Guest intro: Janet Mills' background and age Female leadership, friendship, and fashion mishaps Pandemic collaboration and Sister Rose's advice Ad breaks: Macy's, Quince, BritBox, Aloha, Amazon Confronting Trump on transgender athletes and federal overreach Family political differences and Margaret Chase Smith Watergate era, personal struggles, and finding purpose Dating, domestic violence case, and meeting husband Stepmotherhood, husband's illness, and advocacy Ad breaks: SoFi and Sleep Number Childhood scoliosis and navigating healthcare systems Breaking barriers, sexism, and poetry Quick fire questions and closing thoughts Bonus: Decision to drop out of Senate race Outro: Call with mom and credits
Listen ad-free on Castria