Ben Leff, a Tax Professor at American University Washington College of Law, who has made it his mission to make tax law accessible, engaging, and even fun. Ben shares his unique journey—from studying religious studies to practicing in big law and eventually finding his calling in academia. He discusses the challenges and rewards of teaching tax law, the role of nonprofits, and how technology and AI might reshape tax preparation. Plus, we dive into his podcast, “Tax Class”, where he breaks down tax concepts without overwhelming listeners with numbers and CPA jargon.
Beyond tax law, Ben opens up about his personal experiences, including career shifts, sabbaticals, and his love for singing and hiking. His passion for education and making complex topics approachable shines through in this insightful and engaging conversation.
STORY:
00:00 Introduction
01:50 Background and Career Journey
03:17 Transition to Law and Teaching
04:49 Interest in Tax Law and Nonprofit Work
15:02 Understanding Income Tax
17:37 Technology and Tax Preparation
24:14 Tax Law in Practice
31:51 Advice for Aspiring Tax Lawyers
36:24 Ben's Hobbies and Closing Remarks
BIOGRAPHY:
Ben Leff teaches courses on U.S. federal tax law and the law of charitable and non-profit organizations. His scholarship focuses on the regulation of nonprofits. Prior to joining the faculty, Professor Leff was a visiting assistant professor at Harvard Law School, practiced tax law in Austin Texas, and clerked in Federal District Court. He is a graduate of Yale Law School, holds an M.A. in religious studies from the University of Chicago and a B.A. from Oberlin College.
LINKS:
Tax Class (Spotify): https://open.spotify.com/show/0xvV8nihogJp1RK8LP88W1?si=9889d77de6bc4ad9
Tax Class (Apple): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tax-class/id1764093187
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjamin-m-leff-b331657/
