The New Liberal Podcast

Ben Ritz, an expert from the Center for Funding America's Future, breaks down the critical issues facing Social Security, which is set for insolvency in just seven years. He presents a new plan focusing on targeted benefit reductions and smart revenue increases to ensure sustainability. The discussion also highlights the need for reforms that promote intergenerational fairness and suggests implementing a consumption tax as a robust funding mechanism. Ritz advocates for creating a Social Security system that's equitable for all, especially low-income seniors.

Adam Ozimek, Chief economist at the Economic Innovation Group and auto industry expert, joins to bust myths surrounding the American automotive scene. He discusses how the industry is not in decline despite perceptions, emphasizing its cultural significance and stable production rates. Adam also sheds light on the Treaty of Detroit and its impact on labor dynamics, as well as the effects of Trump's tariffs on competitiveness. The conversation is a deep dive into how history and trade policies shape the future of America's auto manufacturers.

In a lively discussion, Andrew Heaton, host of The Political Orphanage podcast and a keen explorer of economics, law, and history, joins to unravel the complex role of the Federal Reserve. They dive into why managing interest rates is crucial for economic stability and explore alternate monetary systems. Heaton illustrates money as a social construct, examines the dynamics of fractional reserve banking, and clarifies the Fed's dual mandate of controlling inflation while promoting employment. It's a thought-provoking chat that challenges conventional economic beliefs!

Adam Aleksic, author of *Algospeak*, explores the fascinating language evolution spurred by social media algorithms. He dives into how users create euphemisms to bypass censorship and the impact of these trends on communication styles. The discussion reveals the challenges creators face in maintaining authenticity while adapting to algorithmic demands. Aleksic also highlights the relationship between language and identity, examining how online cultures shape our understanding of belonging in a digital landscape.

Jack Despain Zhou, founder of the Center for Educational Progress, dives into the pursuit of excellence in education. He questions the balance between equity and academic performance, arguing that focusing solely on closing achievement gaps may hinder overall progress. The discussion also highlights innovative schools that personalize learning and the importance of inclusive yet rigorous academic standards. Parental concerns about advanced classes and grassroots movements striving for reform reveal the complexities of modern educational policy.

In this discussion, Elan Sykes, Director of Energy and Climate Policy at PPI, dives into the ramifications of a major Republican bill affecting energy policy. He highlights how this legislation could lead to pricier and more polluting energy options. The conversation also touches on complex clean energy tax credits set to expire soon, as well as the political dynamics contrasting current GOP stances with prior Democratic efforts for a cleaner energy landscape. Sykes warns of increasing household energy bills and challenges for renewable energy development.

Jason Furman, an esteemed economist from Harvard and former chair of Obama's Council of Economic Advisors, joins Ben Ritz, a policy development expert at PPI, to delve into the implications of Trump's Big Beautiful Bill. They explore how the bill could blow up the deficit, assess the Biden administration's fiscal strategies, and debate the impact of various tax cut proposals. The conversation also highlights the fragile nature of economic dynamics and warns against overlooking historical precedents for sustainable solutions.

The podcast dives into the contentious debates surrounding the concept of abundance in progressive politics. It reveals how different factions within the left grapple with expansive government initiatives amidst local opposition. There's a critique of simplistic antitrust views, emphasizing the complexity of regulatory challenges. The importance of fostering constructive dialogue in a polarized environment is underscored, while the hosts navigate the misconceptions surrounding the Abundance Movement, advocating for innovative yet balanced policy approaches.

Ian Garner, an Assistant Professor at the Poletsky Institute and author of 'Z Generation: Into the Heart of Russia's Fascist Youth', dives deep into the mechanics of Russian propaganda aimed at its citizens. He details how state control of media fosters nationalism and supports the war in Ukraine. Garner explores the roles of social media influencers, state-sponsored youth programs, and the effects of authoritarianism on cultural expression. He challenges perceptions of public dissent and unpacks the troubling rise of authoritarian ideals among Russian youth.

Should we compensate living kidney donors for donating their kidneys? Elaine Perlman joins the show to discuss the End Kidney Deaths Act and the ethics of paying for organ donations. To get bonus episodes, support us at patreon.com/newliberalpodcast or https://cnliberalism.org/become-a-member Got questions? Send us a note at mailbag@cnliberalism.org. Follow us at: https://twitter.com/CNLiberalism https://cnliberalism.org/   Join a local chapter at https://cnliberalism.org/become-a-member/