Ep. 31 - Unpolished: Dr. Jamaal Bowman on Education, Primary Loss to Big Money & DSA

Ep. 31 - Unpolished: Dr. Jamaal Bowman on Education, Primary Loss to Big Money & DSA In this episode of Policy & Culture, Dan Lloyd and Drew Ayodeji sit down with former Congressman Dr. Jamaal Bowman for a candid conversation about winning, losing, and fighting back in American politics. Dr. Bowman went from middle school principal in the Bronx to a historic 2020 victory in New York’s 16th District. In 2024 he lost the most expensive House primary in U.S. history. He opens up about what came after that loss, how the 2025 Mamdani campaign gave him back his sense of purpose, and why he believes grassroots movements are reshaping politics across the country. The conversation also explores what it means to be Black and progressive in today’s politics, the influence of big money and AIPAC in elections, and how lessons from his journey could shape the road to 2028. Additional topics include: Running for office as an educator, and what it takes to win Behind the scenes of the 2021 bipartisan infrastructure vote His first trip to Palestine and the fight over U.S. foreign policy Big money in politics and the 2024 primary spending against him Hip Hop as a tool for political education and organizing The future of public education in a post-COVID, AI-driven world Healthcare, housing, childcare, and workers’ rights Where American democracy is headed over the next 10 to 20 years 📚 Dr. Bowman’s new book, UNpolishED, is out November 17, 2026 from JAB Press. Pre-order your copy now: www.unpolishedbook.com This episode is a raw, honest conversation about loss, leadership, and liberation, and what it will take to build people power for a new America. Support the show Thanks for tuning in to Policy & Culture, where we bridge the gap between power, policy, and culture. We’re your hosts, Dan Lloyd and Drew Ayodeji. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. 📲 Download the Policy & Culture App on the App Store for breaking political news, exclusive content, and episode updates. 🌐 Visit: www.policyandculture.com 📸 Follow us on Instagram: @PolicyNCulture 💬 Have a question or topic suggestion? Email us at info@policyandculture.com Remember, staying informed is the first step toward making a difference. Until next time, this is Policy & Culture helping you understand the people, policies, and power shaping our world.