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Roger welcomes Kurt Couchman, senior fellow in fiscal policy at Americans for Prosperity, for a conversation on the risks of the nation’s growing debt and his proposal for a balanced budget amendment to restore sound governance.They discuss why fiscal insolvency threatens future generations, how intergenerational debt burdens undermine prosperity, and why Congress struggles to act despite bipartisan public support for reform. Couchman explains “fiscal democracy,” outlines his balanced budget amendment, and shares lessons from countries like Switzerland and Sweden. The discussion also touches on the politics of government shutdowns, Social Security’s unsustainable path, and how institutional reforms could improve Congress’ ability to govern responsibly.Kurt Couchman is the author of “Fiscal Democracy in America: How a Balanced Budget Amendment Can Restore Sound Governance.” He has worked on Capitol Hill as a congressional staffer, at leading budget policy organizations, and is a frequent commentator in national media on fiscal issues. A TFAS alumnus, Couchman received the 2023 Kevin Burkett Alumni Service Award for his contributions to the TFAS community.The Liberty + Leadership Podcast is hosted by TFAS president Roger Ream and produced by <a href='https://podvillemedia.com/'>Podville Media</a>. If you have a comment or question for the show, please email us at <a href='https://tfas.org/'>podcast@TFAS.org</a>. To support TFAS and its mission, please visit <a href='https://tfas.org/support/'>TFAS.org/support</a>.<a rel="payment" href="https://www.TFAS.org/Support">Support the show</a>

Fiscal Democracy in America: Kurt Couchman on the Case for a Balanced Budget Amendment

TFAS has reached 53,000 students and professionals through their academic programs, fellowships and seminars. Representing more than 140 countries, TFAS alumni are courageous leaders throughout the world – forging careers in politics, government, public policy, business, philanthropy, law and the media. Join TFAS President, Roger Ream, as he reconnects with these outstanding alumni to share experiences, swap career stories, and find out what makes their leadership journey unique. The Liberty and Leadership podcast is produced at Podville Media in Washington, D.C. If you have a comment or question for the show, please drop us an email at podcast@TFAS.org.