American Progress

In their ability to afford healthcare. In the cost of housing. In whether the economy is working for them or against them.

In this episode of Coffee With Ken, Ken sits down with Neera Tanden, CEO of the Center for American Progress and longtime senior advisor to three U.S. presidents, for a wide-ranging conversation about policy, power, and the purpose of public service.

From helping pass the Affordable Care Act to shaping landmark legislation like the Inflation Reduction Act, CHIPS and Science Act, and the bipartisan infrastructure law, Neera offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at what it actually takes to turn big ideas into real change — and why affordability has become the defining issue of this moment.

Recorded at the Center for American Progress in Washington, DC, this conversation explores the intersection of healthcare, housing, economic policy, energy, AI, and leadership — and what progress must look like in an increasingly expensive America.

Key Takeaways from the Conversation

Progress Saves Lives

The Affordable Care Act didn’t just change policy — it changed outcomes. Neera reflects on why healthcare access remains a moral and economic imperative.

The Cost of Living Is the Political Fault Line

From housing to energy to everyday goods, rising costs shape how Americans experience politics — regardless of party.

Housing Is a National Challenge

Building more housing isn’t enough. Affordability, zoning, permitting, and federal leadership all determine whether communities can thrive.

Governing Is Coalition-Building

Major legislation requires compromise, listening, and hard choices — especially in a system designed to slow change.

AI, Energy, and Fairness

As data centers drive demand for power, Neera questions why working families should shoulder higher utility costs for trillion-dollar companies.

Communication Starts with Lived Experience

Effective leadership and storytelling must reflect how people actually experience the economy — not how spreadsheets describe it.

Why This Conversation Matters

Public service isn’t about winning elections — it’s about delivering results.

At a time when trust in institutions is strained and economic anxiety is rising, this episode is a reminder that policy decisions shape real lives — and that progress only matters when people can feel it.

From healthcare and housing to energy and innovation, Neera Tanden makes the case for an approach to governing rooted in fairness, evidence, and long-term thinking.

About the Guest

Neera Tanden is the CEO of the Center for American Progress and one of the nation’s most influential policy leaders. She has served as a senior advisor to Presidents Clinton, Obama, and Biden, playing a central role in shaping healthcare, economic, and social policy. Neera is widely recognized for her leadership on affordability, public service, and progressive governance.