Full Disclosure with James O'Brien

David Lammy: I’ve had imposter syndrome my whole life- until now

Jul 25, 2025
David Lammy, the Shadow Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs and an MP for Tottenham since 2000, shares his compelling journey from a challenging childhood to a prominent political career. He discusses the significant influence of mentors and the trauma of police harassment. David reflects on his struggles with imposter syndrome, revealing how he found acceptance during his time as Foreign Secretary. He candidly explores his complex relationship with his father and the impact of the Broadwater Farm riots on his identity, highlighting resilience and community throughout his life.
Ask episode
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
ANECDOTE

Family Struggles and Abandonment

  • David Lammy's father struggled with alcoholism which caused family instability and poverty.
  • His father left when David was 12 and never returned, leading to a challenging childhood with a single parent.
INSIGHT

Education as a Lifeline

  • David and his mother formed a strong team focused on education as a pathway out of hardship.
  • His fierce ambition and support from adults helped him pursue opportunities beyond Tottenham.
ANECDOTE

Childhood Police Harassment

  • At about age 12, David Lammy was stopped and searched by several police officers, an experience that deeply scared him.
  • This event exemplified the fear of police in his community and shaped his youth.
Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode
Get the app