Business Bankruptcy Basics: Episode 6: What Sticks and What Doesn't: The Bankruptcy Discharge Explained

Business Bankruptcy Basics: Episode 6: What Sticks and What Doesn't: The Bankruptcy Discharge Explained

From To the Extent That... by ABA Business Law Section

June 26, 2026 · 36 min

About this episode

The episode explores the bankruptcy discharge process, including key differences between Chapter 7 and Chapter 11 discharges and non-dischargeable debts.

In this episode of Business Bankruptcy Basics, hosts Andrew Still and Miles Taylor are joined by Judge Cathleen Parker (Bankr. D. Wyo.) and dive into one of the most fundamental goals of the bankruptcy process: obtaining a discharge. The episode covers what a discharge is and the concept of the "fresh start," key differences between Chapter 7 and Chapter 11 discharges, the major exceptions to discharge (including non-dischargeable debts and non-dischargeability actions), and what happens when a party violates a discharge order. What We Cover in This Episode • The Bankruptcy Discharge — What is a discharge, and how does it give debtors a "fresh start"? We break down the difference between the temporary relief of the automatic stay and the permanent relief of a discharge order. • Chapter 7 vs. Chapter 11 Discharge — Not all discharges are created equal. We explore the key differences between liquidating under Chapter 7 and restructuring under Chapter 11, including why not every debtor ultimately receives a discharge. • Non-Dischargeable Debts — Some debts simply cannot be wiped out. We cover the categories Congress has carved out under Section 523, including a critical distinction…

People in this episode

Hosts: Andrew Still, Miles Taylor

Guest: Judge Cathleen Parker

Topics covered

Keywords

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Bankr. D. Wyo.

More episodes of To the Extent That...

Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the To the Extent That... podcast page.