First, you've got to have someone extremely disruptive and hope others like him follow. Many people dislike Trump, but he certainly checks this off the list. I don't see how one can effectuate serious change unless they're a total outsider and is determined enough to rattle cages day-in and day-out.
Second, term limits are a must.
Third, cut back on the benefits...make any benefit package similar to an average benefit package one might find in the private sector. But once they've served, there are no pensions.
Lastly...and I don't know how this can change since we're a capitalistic society...but once you're elected to serve in the federal government, you shouldn't be allowed to sign a book deal that will net you and your wife $67 million. I'm not just picking on the Obamas, this should apply to anyone serving from any political party. I don't see how the American taxpayer even begins to stomach things like this.