In this episode of Gross Domestic Problem, host William Glass shares his journey from a challenging childhood in a Florida trailer park to becoming an advocate for national debt awareness. Drawing from his personal experience with government assistance programs, William argues that the growing national debt threatens the very social safety net that enabled his own upward mobility. He uses powerful metaphors like the Titanic's iceberg and cites expert opinions to illustrate how the mounting debt poses a critical risk to national security, economic stability, and future generations. He also emphasizes that solving the debt crisis requires shared sacrifice, political will, and a comprehensive approach that includes responsible taxation, addressing mandatory spending, and protecting essential social programs. His key message is that inaction will disproportionately harm vulnerable communities, and immediate, thoughtful intervention is crucial to preserving economic opportunity for future generations. Don’t miss the “why” behind the GDP podcast.

William Glass is a leader in the national conversation on fiscal responsibility, serving as a key voice for the Millennial Debt Foundation. As a passionate advocate for responsible government spending and debt reduction, William works to engage policymakers, young professionals, and thought leaders in addressing America’s growing national debt crisis. Through his work with the Foundation, he champions bipartisan solutions and fosters meaningful dialogue on the economic challenges facing future generations. William brings a fresh perspective to fiscal policy, emphasizing the importance of long-term financial stability and responsible governance.

The Millennial Debt Foundation was launched in mid-2019 by Tennessean Weston Wamp and other millennial entrepreneurs to lead a generational conversation about fiscal stewardship, the role of the federal government and America’s deficit spending crisis. Inspired by the work of our early advisor, the late U.S. Senator Tom Coburn, M.D., the Foundation’s first major project was the Millennial Debt Commission. The business-led Commission is made up of 20 millennial business leaders from across the country working towards a framework for long-term deficit reduction and stabilization of the national debt. The business leaders have been advised by a cohort of current and former members of Congress, leading economists and policy experts. MDF is a nonpartisan, Tennessee-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit funded by individual donors, the Lynde and Harry Bradley Foundation, and Arnold Ventures.