Ryann Liebenthal

Ryann Liebenthal, author of 'Burdened: Student Debt and the Making of an American Crisis', discusses the staggering $1.7 trillion student debt crisis affecting millions of Americans. She reveals how the student loan system evolved from supportive initiatives to a heavy financial burden, especially for lower-income students. Liebenthal critiques current debt cancellation measures and advocates for a complete overhaul of the education financing system, emphasizing the need to view education as a public good rather than a personal investment.

This discussion features Ryann Liebenthal, a writer focused on student debt, along with Chenjerai Kumanyika, a journalism professor and audio documentarian, and Mike Pierce, director of the Student Borrower Protection Center. They dive into the alarming rise of student debt, which now surpasses $1.8 trillion, and argue for systemic reforms including free college. The conversation also tackles the predatory nature of for-profit colleges, the emotional toll of debt, and the importance of collective action to challenge the current financial landscape of higher education.

Astra Taylor hosts a thought-provoking discussion with Ryann Liebenthal, a passionate advocate on student debt, Chenjerai Kumanyika, a seasoned journalist and professor, and Mike Pierce, the executive director tackling predatory lending. They delve into the origins and transformation of student debt in the U.S. and critique the shortcomings of current political responses. The conversation sheds light on the emotional toll of debt, the failures of for-profit colleges, and emphasizes the urgent need for systemic reforms and collective action to reshape higher education.