Making Change From Scratch: A Candid Conversation with Former Congresswoman Marie Newman

In this powerful episode of I Am Refocused Radio, we sit down with Congresswoman Marie Newman—former U.S. Representative, movement-builder, and author of the upcoming memoir A Life Made From Scratch. Known for her unapologetic stance on healthcare reform, economic justice, and LGBTQ+ rights, Congresswoman Newman shares what it really takes to stand on your values in Washington—and why she’s still hopeful about the future of American democracy. We dive deep into her personal journey from entrepreneur and mother to political firestarter, and she gives us a raw, honest look at the cost of fighting for change in a divided nation. If you’ve ever wondered how real change gets made—or how to keep pushing forward when the system pushes back—this episode is for you. Congresswoman Marie Newman is a trailblazing former U.S. Representative, nonprofit CEO, marketing executive, author, and nationally recognized advocate for equity and justice. She is the author of When Your Child Is Being Bullied: Real Solutions and the forthcoming memoir A Life Made From Scratch (March 2025), which chronicles her journey from mompreneur and activist to Congress and beyond. Known for building movements and tackling the nation’s toughest problems, Newman has been a fierce advocate for healthcare reform, anti-bullying policy, LGBTQ+ rights, gun safety, reproductive freedom, and economic equity. A former spokesperson for Moms Demand Action and a nationally recognized LGBTQ+ ally, she has dedicated her career to ensuring marginalized voices are heard—and centered—in policymaking. Marie has been featured on MSNBC, CNN, FOX, NBC, ABC, CBS, and PBS, and her work has been spotlighted by The New York Times, Washington Post, Elle, Teen Vogue, Ms. Magazine, The New Yorker, Chicago Tribune, and many more. Her op-eds and public speeches have sparked conversations across the political spectrum, from Capitol Hill to kitchen tables. She currently lives in LaGrange, Illinois, with her husband and beagle, Iggy. Marie is a proud mom of two adult children, an active consultant, and a podcaster. Her debut novel—a work of political fiction—is due out in 2026, and she will launch her new podcast in 2025. Her personal motto? “When you don’t see the solution you desperately need—make it from scratch.” http://marienewmanstudio.com/ Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/i-am-refocused-radio--2671113/support.