Benjamin Franklin: The Greatest American with Mark Skousen

Roger welcomes Dr. Mark Skousen, economist, author and the Doti-Spogli Chair of Free Enterprise at Chapman University, for a conversation about Benjamin Franklin’s enduring wisdom and what it means for today’s debates on liberty, economics and civic life. They explore Franklin’s defense of wealth and philanthropy, his views on capitalism and free trade, and his complex relationships with fellow Founders such as Washington, Jefferson and Adams. Skousen shares lessons from Franklin on personal finance, diplomacy, optimism in the face of crisis and even the power of compound interest.  The discussion also touches on Franklin’s role in shaping the postal system, his influence on Adam Smith’s “The Wealth of Nations", and why Franklin’s humor and optimism still resonate in divided times. Skousen is the bestselling author of more than 25 books, including his latest, “The Greatest American: Benjamin Franklin, the World’s Most Versatile Genius.” He has served as president of the Foundation for Economic Education, writes widely on business and finance, and is the founder of FreedomFest, a national conference celebrating liberty, ideas and free enterprise.  The Liberty + Leadership Podcast is hosted by TFAS president Roger Ream and produced by Podville Media. If you have a comment or question for the show, please email us at podcast@TFAS.org. To support TFAS and its mission, please visit TFAS.org/support. Support the show