Cincinnati Mayor Aftab Pureval on Taking Big Policy Swings

In this week's episode, co-host Ryan Coonerty is joined by Cincinnati's first Asian American Mayor, Aftab Pureval, who talks about his vision to make Cincinnati the city of the future by taking "big policy swings." They delve into Pureval's major victories so far, such as his efforts to eliminate $1.4 million in medical debt for 30,000 residents, establish a baby bonds program, and start a pilot for universal basic income. In addition, Pureval describes his political journey, including how he leveraged his diverse background to lead a successful mayoral campaign. Tune in to hear Mayor Pureval reflect on the challenges of leading a blue city in an increasingly red state, as well as the lessons he took from the nationally-watched constitutional amendment vote in Ohio this summer.

IN THIS EPISODE

• [1:05] Get to know today’s guest, Cincinnati Mayor, Aftab Pureval. 

• [2:12] How a successful sports franchise can boost morale.

• [4:27] Why Mayor Pureval is so excited about Cincinnati’s potential. 

• [4:27] An overview of the plans for the Brent Spence Bridge, the poster child for the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

• [6:13] The work being done to address racial and historic inequities in Cincinnati. 

• [6:53] A rundown of the factors driving uncertainty in American cities. 

• [7:37] Cincinnati's climate resilience and how they are preparing for expected population growth. 

• [9:05] Working in the private sector and what this taught Mayor Pureval about innovation, risk, and failure. 

• [9:51] How he is convincing people to get behind his big swings for the city.

• [12:27]The big swings, policy initiatives, and changes that the mayor is most excited about. 

• [13:53] Steps being taken to address historic segregation and redesign the city. 

• [18:46] The Pureval family’s journey from Tibetan refugees to elected official within one generation. 

• [21:27] How Mayor Pureval approached his campaigns as someone who is part of a minority group. 

• [23:56] Leading a blue city in an increasingly red state and how this impacts governance. 

• [28:30] How to spend 24 hours in Cincinnati: sporting, entertainment, and restaurant opportunities!