What role does cultural exchange play in creating balanced perspectives? This week, host Roger Ream is joined by Anna Smith Lacey, executive director at the Hungary Foundation and alumna of TFAS summer programs in Prague and Washington, D.C., to explore her remarkable leadership journey from Budapest to Washington, D.C. Anna reflects on her upbringing in post-communist Hungary and its influence on her understanding of liberty, highlighting the transformative impact of TFAS programs in shaping her views on socialism and freedom. Through nuanced discussions, Anna provides insight into the intricacies of cultural exchange, offering a distinct perspective on the pursuit of liberty by both Americans and Hungarians across generations.

Anna Smith Lacey serves as executive director of the Hungary Foundation, an organization dedicated to strengthening the connections between the United States and Hungary. Prior to this role, she served in the Hungarian Foreign Ministry as U.S. Desk officer and as political attaché at the Hungarian Embassy. She was a contributor to the Hungarian Weekly Magazine, Heti Válasz, where she covered American politics. Anna was born and raised in Budapest, Hungary, and earned her Master’s degree in International Relations at Corvinus University.

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 [email protected]. To support TFAS and its mission, please visit TFAS.org/support.

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