POPULARITY
Julia Regier is a policy and research manager at MIT's Stone Center on Inequality and Shaping the Future of Work, where she focuses on workforce and policy impacts. Her path here was anything but straight, from studying philosophy at Wellesley to an MBA at Yale to translating dense economics research for people who don't speak economics. We talk about what the data shows for workers without college degrees (spoiler: it's not great, and it's been getting worse since 1980), why the self-checkout AI surveillance story is a perfect case study in automation gone wrong, and what it would take to redirect AI development toward something that works for workers, not just around them. We also get into the market failure at the heart of how AI is being built, why a handful of people setting the vision for all of us is a problem, and what policy levers could shift things. Julia also makes the moral case, loud and clear, for a living wage, and we're here for it. Chapters 00:00 - Intro - Felicia and Rachel talk local politics, civic assemblies, and more 20:28 - Welcome Julia! Her Nonlinear Path: Philosophy, Recruiting & Landing at MIT 25:00 - Worker Ownership, Co-ops & Why It's Harder Than It Sounds 29:35 - Job Quality for Workers Without College Degrees: What the Data Shows 37:00 - AI Surveillance, Self-Checkout & the Annoyance Factor 43:45 - Taking the Long View: Policy Impacts & the Case for Investing in Children 49:40 - Who's Setting the Vision for AI (and Why That's a Problem) 54:26 - Pro-Worker AI: Policy Levers That Could Actually Change Course 62:00 - Gender, Diversity & Who's Missing from the Research 65:20 - If You Could Change One Thing + Closing Thoughts Visit us at InclusionGeeks.com to stay up to date on all the ways you can make the workplace work for everyone! Check out Inclusion Geeks Academy and InclusionGeeks.com/podcast for the code to get a free mini course.
Are you interested economic mobility and zoning reform? What do you think about the connection between housing capacity and housing affordability? How can we leverage housing for better urban economic outcomes? Trailer for episode 434 - interview with Keith Cooke, Director of Planning & Community Development Markets at Esri. We will talk about his vision for the future of cities, economic mobility, the connection between housing capacity and affordability, urban geography, and many more.Find out more in the episode.Episode generated with Descript assistance (affiliate link).Music by Lesfm from Pixabay
Michael D. Tubbs is running to be California's next lieutenant governor to build a California future that sets the example for how government can work for everyone. He was Stockton's first African-American mayor in 2016, and the youngest mayor of any major city at the age of 26. Under his leadership, Stockton saw a decline in homicides and officer involved shootings, as well as record low unemployment rates. Michael is also the Special Advisor to California Governor Gavin Newsom for Economic Mobility; the Founder of Mayors for a Guaranteed Income; and the Founder of End Poverty in California (EPIC).In this conversation, we discussed how the desire to reduce gun violence inspired Michael to get involved in politics, what it was like to be the mayor of a struggling city, how government CAN work if leaders are willing to try something new, and why it's so important to vote in California's crowded primary. Connect with Michael: Website | Instagram | FacebookIf you're looking to unleash your potential, find your personal, professional, or political fire, and to connect with a community who is doing the same, click here to learn more. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit shannonwatts.substack.com/subscribe
Rachel Orose, President and CEO of the United Way of San Diego County, shares data-driven insights on affordability, economic mobility and the "real cost" of living for working families. Orose notes how United Way mobilizes corporate partners, STEAM-to-Careers pathways and the Earned Income Tax Credit Coalition to help San Diego's workforce move from survival to stability. Listen Where You Live!About Spotlight and Cloudcast Media "Spotlight On The Community" is the longest running community podcast in the country, continuously hosted by Drew Schlosberg for 20 years. "Spotlight" is part of Cloudcast Media's line-up of powerful local podcasts, telling the stories, highlighting the people, and celebrating the gravitational power of local. For more information on Cloudcast and its shows and cities served, please visit www.cloudcastmedia.us. Cloudcast Media | the national leader in local podcasting. About Mission Fed Credit Union A community champion for over 60 years, Mission Fed Credit Union with over $6 billion in member assets, is the Sponsor of Spotlight On The Community, helping to curate connectivity, collaboration, and catalytic conversations. For more information on the many services for San Diego residents, be sure to visit them at https://www.missionfed.com/
In this episode, we explore one of the most pressing challenges facing the social sector today: economic mobility. While the idea of the “American Dream” suggests that upward mobility is widely available, the data tells a more complicated story. Only about 64% of Americans believe those opportunities exist, and research shows that a significant portion of income advantage is passed from one generation to the next.To dig deeper into this issue, I'm joined by Dr. Michelle Carrera-Morales of Xiente, an organization working directly with families to build pathways from poverty to the middle class.In this conversation, we cover:How economic mobility is defined and experienced at the community levelStructural barriers like housing, employment, childcare, and the “benefits cliff”What guaranteed income is—and how it works in practiceHow Xiente is implementing a pilot program combining cash transfers with holistic supportsThe role of data and research in understanding impact, including partnerships with the University of PennsylvaniaWhat early signals suggest about financial stability, decision-making, and long-term outcomesOne of the most compelling themes in this episode is the idea that stability creates possibility. When families are no longer operating in constant survival mode, it opens the door to longer-term thinking, planning, and opportunity.This episode is for anyone working in human services, public health, behavioral health, or economic development who is thinking about how to move from short-term stabilization to long-term mobility.Learn more at www.commongooddata.com/podcast
In this episode of Add Passion and Stir, host Billy Shore talks with Maureen Conway, vice president at the Aspen Institute and executive director of the Institute's Economic Opportunities Program, and Giselle Veloz, senior program manager of parent engagement and recruitment for LIFT in New York.The conversation explores why ending childhood hunger requires more than food alone — it also means supporting parents, reducing systemic barriers, and creating pathways to economic mobility. Maureen explains how the Aspen Institute's Economic Opportunities Program advances promising policies and practices that help low- and moderate-income people connect to better opportunities and build better lives. Giselle shares how LIFT's coaching, cash infusions, and trust-based support help parents move toward stability. Together, they make the case that poverty is not an individual failure but the result of systems, and that real change comes from policy, partnership, and lived experience. If you care about child hunger, family well-being, or practical solutions to poverty, this is an essential listen.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
As Central Ohio grows, the question isn't just how fast—but who benefits. In this timely conversation, leaders from economics, community development, and education explore what truly drives economic mobility, why generational poverty persists, and what it will take to create more equitable pathways to opportunity. From systemic barriers to promising solutions, we examine how Columbus can ensure prosperity is shared more broadly across the region. Featuring: Dr. Joyce J. Chen, Professor of Economics in Women's, Gender and Sexuality Studies, The Ohio State University Will Crossley, Executive Vice President, The Woodson Center and President, The Piney Woods School Stephanie Hightower, President and CEO, The Columbus Urban League, and Co-Chair, The Equity Now Coalition The host is Rodney Dunigan, Evening Manager and Anchor, WSYX ABC6. This forum was sponsored by The Oakwood Management Company and The Robert Weiler Company. The presenting sponsor of the CMC livestream was The Center for Human Kindness at the Columbus Foundation. CMC's livestream partner was The Columbus Dispatch. This forum was also supported by Downtown Columbus, Inc., The National Veterans Memorial and Museum, and by Tom Bolon and Keith Jones. If you would like to keep exploring this week's forum topic, our partners at The Columbus Metropolitan Library recommend reading "Poverty, by America," written by Matthew Desmond (2023). This forum was recorded before a live audience at The National Veterans Memorial and Museum in Columbus, Ohio on May 6, 2026.
What's the difference between digital literacy and AI literacy—and why does it matter for the future of work?In this episode, Corey sits down with Nancy Mwirotsi, founder of Pi515, to break down how technology is shaping economic mobility for youth. They explore why basic digital skills are still missing, how AI tools are changing critical thinking, and what it takes to prepare the next generation for real opportunities.Nancy shares her journey building Pi515 to support underserved and refugee youth through tech education. She also explains how exposure, mentorship, and hands-on learning can change a child's trajectory.If you care about education, workforce development, or closing opportunity gaps, this conversation will challenge how you think about tech and youth development.Show NotesWhat you'll learn: The difference between digital literacy and AI literacy Why many students still lack basic tech skills How AI tools can weaken or strengthen critical thinking The role of mentorship in shaping career paths How tech access impacts economic mobility Why youth need exposure to real-world opportunities The risks of over-relying on AI tools How to prepare kids for the future of work Key Moments: 00:00 – Introduction to Nancy and Pi515 03:00 – How Pi515 started and supporting refugee youth 05:30 – Why exposure shapes career possibilities 09:00 – Digital literacy vs AI literacy explained 13:00 – The danger of overusing AI tools 17:00 – Skills youth need for future jobs 20:00 – AI risks: misinformation and deepfakes 22:30 – How parents and educators can guide kids 27:00 – Best AI tools and how to use them wisely 32:00 – Youth, entrepreneurship, and making money with AI 34:00 – Why talent leaves cities like Des Moines 40:00 – Building innovation ecosystems for the future Notable Quotes: “Kids cannot be what they don't see.” “Digital literacy is basic skills. AI literacy is understanding the tool, the ethics, and the impact.” “You can't let the tool do the thinking for you.” “We need to empower young people as leaders, not just learners.” Resources & Links: Pi515: https://pi515.orgCall to Action: Subscribe for more conversations on health, community, and opportunity Share this episode with educators, parents, and leaders Leave a review to help more people find the show ★ Support this podcast ★
Recorded LIVE! on the Harbor Terrace at the ASU+GSV Summit in San Diego, Mike Palmer is joined by Dr. Steven Taylor, Policy Director and Senior Fellow for Economic Mobility at Stand Together Trust. Steve brings a unique perspective to the table, combining a national philanthropic lens with his roles on the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia and the National Advisory Committee for Institutional Quality and Integrity (NACIQI). The conversation captures the shifting energy of the summit, moving away from the peak of AI hype toward what Steve calls "optimistic skepticism" - a more mature look at how technology can practically transform learning while remaining grounded in the reality of its current limitations. The discussion explores the potential of AI to revolutionize the K-12 experience, using examples like Austin's Alpha School to show how personalized learning can compress the school day, allowing students more time to pursue their passions. Steve and Mike tackle the difficult questions of equity and the "risk capital" required to bring high-cost innovations to scale. Then we pivot to the higher education landscape, where Steve emphasizes the need to dignify non-degree pathways. He shares insights from Virginia's FastForward program, a pay-for-performance model that has successfully moved residents into high-demand fields through short-term credentials, proving that ROI isn't just a metric for four-year degrees. As the conversation turns to the future of work, Steve expresses concern over the potential displacement of entry-level roles—the "desk jockey" jobs that traditionally provide young people with essential social capital and early career experience. He argues that our labor laws are antiquated and must evolve to support a more flexible, AI-driven workforce that favors 1099 and gig-based contributions. From the necessity of correcting AI's erroneous outputs to the complexities of AI-driven hiring and the debate over universal basic income, this episode offers a comprehensive look at the policy and philanthropic shifts needed to ensure everyone can contribute to a changing economy. Time Stamps 00:00 - Welcome to Trending in Ed Live from San Diego 01:00 - Steve Taylor's roles at Stand Together, SCHEV, and NACIQI 02:00 - Moving from AI hype to "optimistic skepticism" 03:00 - Transforming K-12: The Alpha School model 05:00 - The role of risk capital and philanthropy in scaling tech 08:00 - Dignifying non-degree pathways and the ROI of trades 09:30 - Virginia's "Fast Forward" and the success of short-term credentials 12:00 - Why states shouldn't let federal funding dictate workforce design 13:30 - AI skepticism: Correcting outputs and the "mid" floor 16:00 - The risk of losing entry-level career experiences 18:00 - Social capital and the "future of working" 20:30 - Why federal labor law must catch up to the 1099 economy 22:30 - Thoughts on AI adjustment assistance vs. UBI 23:30 - Closing thoughts and where to find Stand Together To keep up with the latest in the world of learning, make sure to Follow, Like, and Subscribe to Trending in Education wherever you get your podcasts.
As part of the Future of Texas series in partnership with Texas 2036, this episode explores how rapid population growth is reshaping the state — and what it will take to manage that growth successfully over the next decade. In this episode of Texas Talks, host Brad Swail is joined by Henry Cisneros, former U.S. Secretary of Housing and Urban Development and former mayor of San Antonio, and A.J. Rodriguez, Executive Vice President at Texas 2036, for a deep dive into the rise of Texas “mega regions” — particularly the fast-growing Austin–San Antonio corridor. With Texas now exceeding 31 million residents and continuing to grow rapidly, the conversation focuses on how interconnected metropolitan regions — including the broader Texas Triangle — are becoming the true drivers of economic growth, population expansion, and global competitiveness. Cisneros and Rodriguez explain that Texas is no longer defined primarily by rural or energy-based economies, but by large, dynamic urban regions producing the majority of the state's GDP. They argue that the key challenge ahead is not whether Texas will grow — but whether leaders can plan effectively to manage that growth. The discussion also covers: • The rise of the Austin–San Antonio mega region and the broader Texas Triangle • Why regional collaboration — not city-by-city planning — is critical to future success • Housing affordability challenges and the risks of underbuilding • Water supply, infrastructure gaps, and long-term sustainability concerns • Transportation bottlenecks, congestion, and the need for rail and mobility innovation • Workforce development, education, and closing the postsecondary attainment gap • Economic mobility, poverty challenges, and the importance of human capital investment • Lessons from other global regions that failed — or succeeded — in managing growth The conversation highlights a central theme: Texas is at a pivotal moment. With the right planning, coordination, and investment, it could become one of the most dynamic economic regions in the world — but failure to act could lead to congestion, affordability crises, and missed opportunity. Through the Future of Texas podcast series, Texas 2036 brings together diverse perspectives as we explore the opportunities and challenges facing our state over the next ten years. The views expressed in this program are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of Texas 2036, its staff or its Board of Directors. 00:00 — Introduction to Texas growth and the Future of Texas series 00:25 — Texas population growth and rise of mega regions 01:15 — Guests introduced: Henry Cisneros and A.J. Rodriguez 02:01 — Urbanization and the Texas Triangle explained 03:36 — Why Texas growth is inevitable — and what's at stake 05:09 — Regionalism and planning for 2036 population growth 06:18 — Austin–San Antonio mega region and regional identity 08:14 — Economic power of Texas metro regions 09:44 — Texas as a global economic competitor 10:38 — Collaboration vs competition between cities 11:32 — Infrastructure challenges: transportation and congestion 16:11 — Water supply risks and long-term planning 18:43 — Housing affordability and supply challenges 22:08 — Economic mobility and poverty concerns 25:02 — Workforce development and education gaps 29:00 — Need for regional coordination and governance structures 32:04 — Rail, mobility innovation, and future transportation 37:00 — Role of state government and policy coordination 41:34 — Lessons from other regions that failed to plan 45:13 — Global competition and Texas's economic potential 52:17 — Preparing the workforce for AI and future jobs 54:56 — What Texas must focus on before 2036 57:04 — Final vision: what Texas could become if done right Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@TexasTalks
In this episode of the Eye Believe Podcast, we're joined by Adrián Franco, Ph.D., founder of Broken Not Broke, an initiative dedicated to addressing the often-overlooked financial toxicity of childhood cancer. After his son was diagnosed with Ewing sarcoma in 2022, Adrián experienced firsthand the overwhelming financial challenges families face during treatment. In response, he created Broken Not Broke to help connect the dots—serving as a centralized resource that links patients, parents, social workers, and caregivers to organizations offering financial assistance for pediatric cancer families across the United States. In this conversation, Adrián shares: His personal journey as a cancer parent The real impact of financial strain on families How Broken Not Broke functions as a national resource hub Why improving access to financial support is critical for families' long-term well-being Adrián is also the Executive Director of the Guarini Institute for International Education and Economic Mobility and serves on the Patient and Family Advisory Council for Quality at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. This episode shines a light on an important gap in cancer care—and offers hope, resources, and direction for families who need it most. Check out Broken Not Broke- https://brokennotbroke.org https://youtube.com/@thebrokennotbrokeinterview?si=4h220ZDNSxME3BT7
How do you transition from leading in high-stakes environments like the Pentagon and Chick-fil-A to building a movement for community unity? In today’s episode, Nathan Stuck sits down with Rodney Bullard, CEO of The Same House, to unpack what he is doing to bridge social and economic divides in Atlanta and beyond. Rodney shares his journey from the Air Force Academy to the corporate world, illustrating how a legacy-driven mindset can transform organizations and communities. Rodney is the author of the best-selling book Heroes Wanted and a recognized leader in corporate social responsibility. He brings a unique perspective on "significance versus success," rooted in the mentorship of civil rights giants and his own lived experience. In this episode, you will learn: The fundamental difference between "success" (titles and wealth) and "significance" (helping people and creating lasting impact). Why "tyrannical" leadership doesn't scale and how authentic care builds a team that will "go through a wall" for the mission. The "Same House" philosophy: why we cannot sit comfortably in one room while our neighbor's room is on fire. RESOURCES RELATED TO THIS EPISODE Visit https://thesamehouse.org/ Learn more about Rodney at https://www.rodneybullard.com/ Follow Rodney Bullard on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/rodneybullardatl/ Learn more about B Local Georgia at https://blocalgeorgia.com/ CREDITS Theme Music
Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker announced her city budget proposal this week. We hear how she's planning to fund “Pothole Squads” and ending street homelessness. Two teens from Bucks County were arrested for allegedly throwing explosives into a crowd of clashing protesters outside New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani's home. We also have the latest backlash to the Philadelphia School District's plan to close 18 schools, a lesson on how elections work, and a recap of who the Eagles have lost and gained so far during free agency. 00:00 Intro 02:00 Mayor Parker's $7 billion budget proposal; Penn goes to court over lists of Jewish employees 07:00 Bucks County teens allegedly inspired by ISIS in NYC bombing attempt 13:06 School closure plan, school budget, and SEPTA bus changes 18:37 NJ Gov. Mikie Sherrill's plan to reduce $3 billion deficit 24:38 Pulling back the curtain on the election process 30:09 Eagles say goodbye to several players during free agency Listen to The Week in Philly with Matt Leon and our team of reporters on KYW Newsradio every Saturday at 5am and 3pm, and Sunday at 3pm. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Nick Phillips from St. Louis Magazine is here to talk about their new Economic Mobility Lab, and Dave Murray's forecast!- h3 full 2005 Wed, 04 Feb 2026 22:10:25 +0000 o4TWX79sSYzY9dEtvYAGw4qGrxM3kvSp comedy,religion & spirituality,society & culture,news,government The Dave Glover Show comedy,religion & spirituality,society & culture,news,government Nick Phillips from St. Louis Magazine is here to talk about their new Economic Mobility Lab, and Dave Murray's forecast!- h3 The Dave Glover Show has been driving St. Louis home for over 20 years. Unafraid to discuss virtually any topic, you'll hear Dave and crew's unique perspective on current events, news and politics, and anything and everything in between. © 2025 Audacy, Inc. Comedy Religion & Spirituality Society & Culture News Government Fals
The American dream is often presented as the product of someone "pulling up their bootstraps" to a better life. But that's just one way of explaining an idea that economists call "economic mobility.” A new project by St. Louis Magazine, the Economic Mobility Lab, is diving into that idea and the research into what it takes for low-income kids to out-earn their parents. To understand economic mobility in St. Louis, we sit down with St. Louis Magazine senior editor Nick Phillips to talk about his latest story, "How one St. Louisan found something rare: upward economic mobility." We also meet Nehemiah Colyer, whose experience after changing schools to Parkway West High School is an example of what economists call "social capital" and “economic connectedness.”
Episode Topic: Creating Economic Mobility Through Public Transit For families facing impossible choices between a doctor's visit and a job interview, transportation costs can be a breaking point. Discover how King County, WA, and University of Notre Dame researchers used rigorous evidence to test a solution: free transit. The results reveal transformative impacts on community well-being, charting a new course for equitable mobility. Featured Speakers:David Phillips, University of Notre DameMatthew Freedman, University of California, IrvineTruong Hoang, State of Washington Department of Social and Health ServicesMaria Jimenez-Zepeda, King County MetroRead this episode's recap over on the University of Notre Dame's open online learning community platform, ThinkND: https://go.nd.edu/06aa02.This podcast is a part of the ThinkND Series titled Evidence Matters. Thanks for listening! The ThinkND Podcast is brought to you by ThinkND, the University of Notre Dame's online learning community. We connect you with videos, podcasts, articles, courses, and other resources to inspire minds and spark conversations on topics that matter to you — everything from faith and politics, to science, technology, and your career. Learn more about ThinkND and register for upcoming live events at think.nd.edu. Join our LinkedIn community for updates, episode clips, and more.
In this episode of Boldin Your Money, Steve Chen catches up with Paula Pant, founder of Afford Anything to explore how her work and thinking have evolved. Paula shares how earning a graduate degree in economic journalism deepened her approach to personal finance, why her audience is juggling more competing priorities than ever, and how rising uncertainty is shaping financial behavior. She and Steve discuss housing lock-in, geo-arbitrage, and the growing value of human soft skills in an AI-driven world. Paula also breaks down her “Double-I FIRE” framework and explains why real estate, entrepreneurship, and empowered decision-making matter more than ever.
What if America tried to eliminate crime instead of just reacting to it? Not with slogans, but with staffing, technology, and strategy scaled to the problem. In this episode, Erik Torenberg speaks with Garrett Langley, founder and CEO of Flock Safety, and Ben Horowitz, cofounder of a16z, about what is happening in the cities that are trying. Flock now works with over 5,000 communities to detect crime, recover missing children, and close cases faster than ever. Ben has been closely involved in Las Vegas, where Flock technology, drones, and community policing have raised clearance rates while reducing use of force. They outline what a real national crime-reduction strategy could look like: solving the police staffing crisis, using intelligence to make policing safer, understanding why clearance rates have collapsed, and how public–private partnerships are filling gaps cities cannot. They also tackle the hard questions around privacy, criminal justice failures, and the hidden role of organized crime in everyday offenses. Timecodes: 0:00 — Introduction and the Cost of Crime1:09 — Technology, Privacy, and Trust in Policing1:22 — Eliminating Crime: A National Strategy2:54 — People: Staffing, Culture, and Recruitment8:45 — Products: Technology in Modern Policing9:41 — Policy: Accountability and Prosecution20:11 — Community Policing and Clearance Rates25:16 — Case Study: Las Vegas and Public-Private Partnerships32:00 — Criticisms, Privacy, and Trust35:23 — Economic Mobility, Safety, and Social Impact36:44 — Reform, Recidivism, and Alternative Approaches52:14 — Organized Crime and Policy Challenges54:32 — The Future of Policing: Intelligence and Precision57:24 — Success Stories and ConclusionResources: Follow Garrett on X: https://twitter.com/glangley Follow Ben on X: https://twitter.com/bhorowitz Stay Updated: If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to like, subscribe, and share with your friends! Find a16z on X: https://twitter.com/a16z Find a16z on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a16z Listen to the a16z Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5bC65RDvs3oxnLyqqvkUYX Listen to the a16z Podcast on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/a16z-podcast/id842818711 Follow our host: https://x.com/eriktorenberg Please note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details, please see a16z.com/disclosures. Stay Updated:Find a16z on XFind a16z on LinkedInListen to the a16z Show on SpotifyListen to the a16z Show on Apple PodcastsFollow our host: https://twitter.com/eriktorenberg Please note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In today's episode, we break down shocking income and wage statistics that reveal how Americans are really earning — and why homelessness, poverty, and economic pressure look the way they do. We explore everything from minimum wage realities to demographic income breakdowns and the surprising rise of top earners. We also discuss the mindset shift needed to rise above the median and bring more value to the marketplace, plus how generational challenges like home prices, interest rates, and inflation are reshaping the financial future.If you're interested in money, motivation, and real-world insights that impact everyday life, this episode is for you.
In this episode of Main Street Matters, Jordan Bruneau sits down with economist David Bahnsen to break down the real economic impact of the recent government shutdown and what the latest off-year election results signal for the country. They explore the growing healthcare crisis, persistent labor shortages, and the cultural shifts influencing workforce participation—particularly among men. Bahnsen outlines the biggest priorities for conservatives in the year ahead, emphasizing the need to restore economic mobility, strengthen personal responsibility, and confront the deeper societal issues driving America’s long-term challenges.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In the latest episode of Better Money Better World, Daniel Pianko sits down with four remarkable alumni from the Impact Capital Managers Mosaic Fellowship — Mary Chen, Staphany Hou, Iliana Griva, and Rob Rush — to explore how the next generation is shaping the future of impact investing.Each of these bright minds took a unique path into the field, but they share one powerful common thread: a passion for aligning capital with purpose. From tackling climate and circularity to improving economic mobility and financial inclusion, their stories reveal what it truly means to invest for both profit and purpose.True impact investing starts with investing in people. The Mosaic Fellowship demonstrates how nurturing skilled and diverse talent and providing mentorship unlock not only career opportunities but new ideas, energy, and empathy within the field.Ready to learn more or get involved?Visit Impact Capital Managers to learn more about how investing for impact drives returns.
With technical colleges serving as the front line for breaking generational poverty, one question rises to the surface: how do we design education that truly creates economic mobility?In this episode of The TechEd Podcast, host Matt Kirchner digs into that question with Dr. Anthony Cruz, President of Milwaukee Area Technical College — the largest nonprofit technical college in the country and one of the most diverse institutions in the Midwest.Dr. Cruz brings a compelling mix of lived experience and visionary leadership: a first-generation college graduate whose parents worked in factories, now leading a college that serves 31,000 students a year and sits at the epicenter of Milwaukee's economic and social challenges. From meeting students where they are to engineering economic mobility, Dr. Cruz lays out the blueprint for how technical colleges can change the trajectory of entire families.From breaking cycles of generational poverty to preparing students for an AI-driven workforce, this conversation explores what's required from technical colleges today, and why their role has never been more vital.Listen to learn:How technical colleges serve as engines of economic mobilityWhy student support must go far beyond academicsHow to nurture grit in students who have never seen success modeled around themWhat AI disruption means for technical college programsWhy urban technical colleges face unique challenges — and unique opportunitiesBig Takeaways1. Technical colleges are uniquely positioned to break generational poverty.MATC sees itself as an “engine of economic mobility,” serving students who often arrive without the financial resources or social capital others take for granted.Layered support — scholarships, retention coaches, food pantries, advising — helps remove barriers so students can persist and earn family-sustaining wages.2. Student success requires developing grit, not just academic skill.Cruz emphasizes that grit is innate but must be nurtured. Many students have never seen examples of success around them, so MATC focuses on helping them build resilience semester after semester until they launch into the workforce.3. The future of technical education demands agility — especially with AI.AI is reshaping jobs faster than curriculum cycles. MATC is equipping faculty to use AI tools now, while building flexible programs that can adapt quickly to emerging technologies rather than waiting years for revisions.ResourcesMilwaukee Area Technical CollegeMATC Promise ProgramChecota Scholars ProgramWe want to hear from you! Send us a text.Instagram - Facebook - YouTube - TikTok - Twitter - LinkedIn
Urban Institute senior fellow Elaine Waxman and Jeremiah Program president and CEO Chastity Lord know the power of single moms on the economic mobility of entire communities. “Great moms are dreaming in threes: they dream for themselves, they dream for their children, and they naturally dream for their community,” says Lord. The Jeremiah Program supports single mothers as they invest simultaneously in their own goals as well as their children's education. Waxman recently published “Policy Levers to Support Single-Mother Economic Mobility” with support from Share Our Strength. “I always think of food insecurity as the canary in the coal mine. It's often the first symptom of instability to emerge because that's a quick way that people can try to move resources around. It's also often one of the last ones to resolve,” she reports.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Rural America is on the brink of an economic transformation. With more than $1 trillion in advanced manufacturing investments (and nearly two-thirds of that flowing into rural regions) this moment represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to revitalize local economies, strengthen school-industry partnerships, and empower students with career pathways in advanced manufacturing.Matt Kirchner sits down with Duwain Pinder, Partner at McKinsey & Company and a leader of the McKinsey Institute for Economic Mobility to explore the institute's new report: Manufacturing in rural America: A plan for K–12–industry partnershipsThis conversation examines the gap between the career-connected learning students want access to, and the opportunities afforded them in rural districts. Matt and Duwain discuss how manufacturers and school districts can work together to close this gap and prepare the next generation for the influx of jobs coming to rural America.Listen to learn:Why 63% of $1 trillion in new U.S. manufacturing investment happening within 15 miles of rural communities means for K-12 educationHow we solve the problem of 8 in 10 students wanting access to career-connected learning, but only 3 in 10 having itThe $34 billion annual wage impact advanced manufacturing could create for rural Americans, and what must happen to realize itWhy employers should think about school districts like they do about their suppliersWhat success could look like in 2035 if schools and industry build long-term, evidence-based partnerships that sustain economic mobility3 Big Takeaways from this Episode:1. Rural America is the new frontier for advanced manufacturing. McKinsey's analysis found that 63 % of $1 trillion in announced U.S. manufacturing investments are being built within 15 miles of rural communities. Pinder explains that these projects will define America's manufacturing future and bring high-quality jobs to places that have long been left behind.2. The skills gap solution isn't either-or...students need basic academic and technical skills. McKinsey's research shows that foundational reading and math scores are eroding across the U.S., especially in rural communities, even as demand grows for advanced manufacturing talent. Duwain and Matt agree that employers shouldn't accept this trade-off. Students must graduate ready to read, calculate, and communicate and understand robotics, PLCs, and other manufacturing tech, which requires schools and employers to work together on both fronts.3. Using existing successful models (not always reinventing the wheel) will help rural K-12 accelerate and scale career-connected learning. Nearly 8 in 10 rural students want apprenticeships and hands-on learning, yet only 3 in 10 can access them, a gap that represents a massive opportunity. Evidence-based models like youth apprenticeships, dual-enrollment, and early-college high schools already exist. If districts embrace these, plus partner with employers and workforce associations, they can create career-connected learning more quickly.Visit the show notes page for more We want to hear from you! Send us a text.Instagram - Facebook - YouTube - TikTok - Twitter - LinkedIn
In this conversation, we interview Toni Cunningham, the president and CEO of the Godman Guild, a nonprofit organization focused on workforce development and economic mobility. Toni discusses the organization's mission to empower individuals through durable skills training, personalized career pathways, and community partnerships.She shares insights from her journey into nonprofit leadership and emphasizes the importance of team management and collaboration. The conversation also highlights upcoming events and the exciting future plans for the Godman Guild.Charity Charge is a financial technology company serving the nonprofit sector. From the Charity Charge Nonprofit Credit Card to bookkeeping, gift card disbursements, and state compliance, we help mission-driven organizations streamline operations and stay financially strong. Learn more at charitycharge.com.
Michael Smerconish sits down with Dr. Michael Strain of the American Enterprise Institute to challenge the idea that the American Dream is out of reach. With Investopedia pegging its “cost” at over $5 million, Smerconish and Strain unpack what really defines success in America today. Is homeownership essential? Does hard work still pay off? And are our expectations part of the problem? A sharp, timely look at what it means to “make it” in modern America. Original air date 30 September 2025. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
On this episode of Rutherford Issues, host Bryan Barrett talks with Ashley Wenzel, VP of Development and Programs, and Haley Vaughn, Assistant Director of Economic Mobility wi
In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark dives into the intersection of education and workforce innovation with Kerry McKittrick, Co-Director of Harvard's Project on Workforce. Together, they explore the evolving job market in the AI era, discussing challenges like the "AI job apocalypse" and the importance of creating agile pathways to economic mobility. Kerry highlights the critical role of work-based learning, industry partnerships, and personalized career navigation to prepare learners for a complex and dynamic workforce. Tune in to hear about the future of work, education's response, and how regional and adaptive pathways can create equitable opportunities for all. Outline (00:00) Introduction: AI's Impact on Jobs (02:27) Pathways to Economic Mobility (04:12) Current Job Market Challenges (09:05) Education's Response to Workforce Changes (14:21) Governors' Role in Workforce Development (24:58) Conclusion and Future Work Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog here Kerry McKittrick | LinkedIn Bloomberg Philanthropies CTE Initiative Harvard Project on Workforce
In this episode of the Immigration Conversation podcast, Partner Cosmina Morariu and Business Immigration Manager Ayana Ibrahimi are joined by Lara Dyer, Chief Program Officer (Americas) at Talent Beyond Boundaries (TBB), to explore Canada's Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot (EMPP). The EMPP merges Canada's humanitarian and economic priorities, enabling employers to hire skilled refugees from around the world.Together, Fragomen and TBB have created an innovative, award-winning business-driven solution enabling skilled refugees to legally migrate for work, benefitting both displaced professionals and economies struggling with skills and labor shortages.
Education and job training can lead to good jobs and living wages; but for many adult learners, that path to greater prosperity is anything but straightforward. Structural barriers, disconnected systems, and outdated models often make it difficult for individuals to gain the skills and credentials they need to advance their careers. How can we modernize education and workforce systems and create opportunities for all learners? In this episode of the Leading Voices podcast, host Danny Torres talks with Kathy Booth, Director of the Center for Economic Mobility at WestEd, and Randy Tillery, Director of Economic Mobility and Postsecondary and Workforce Systems at WestEd and Co-Director of the Center for Economic Mobility. They discuss the challenges many adult learners face—such as balancing work, caregiving, and school—and why short-term training alone often falls short. They emphasize the value of cross-sector partnerships between community colleges, employers, and workforce organizations in building systems that are more responsive to both learners' needs and local labor markets. Their conversation covers the following topics: How valuable it is to build partnerships that connect education institutions, employers, and workforce systems How labor market data can inform program design and improve outcomes Why lifelong learning and skills-based hiring are essential in today's economy How systems can adapt to support learning across all stages of life Read the Transcript Additional Resources WestEd Center for Economic Mobility (Website) The Credential Value Index (Website) What Gets in the Way of Education Reforms? (Blog) About the Center The Center for Economic Mobility at WestEd brings together employers, educational institutions, and workforce systems to codesign solutions that meet the needs of both learners and employers. By strengthening linkages between systems, the Center aims to foster greater access to education, job training, and credentials so that learners can build stable and rewarding careers. Visit economic-mobility.WestEd.org to learn more.
Five of America's top philanthropists are teaming up for a new venture aimed at helping low-income Americans rise from poverty. An AI giant has signed on to help. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Investor Fuel Real Estate Investing Mastermind - Audio Version
In this episode of the Real Estate Pros podcast, Kristen Knapp interviews Alan and Kris Hon, a dynamic couple in the real estate industry. They share their journey of developing a passion for helping others, particularly veterans and single parents, navigate the challenges of home ownership. The conversation delves into their nonprofit initiative aimed at providing affordable housing solutions and the systemic changes needed to support these underserved communities. They discuss various down payment assistance programs and their vision for creating a supportive community for veterans. The episode highlights the importance of compassion in real estate and the couple's commitment to making a difference in people's lives. Professional Real Estate Investors - How we can help you: Investor Fuel Mastermind: Learn more about the Investor Fuel Mastermind, including 100% deal financing, massive discounts from vendors and sponsors you're already using, our world class community of over 150 members, and SO much more here: http://www.investorfuel.com/apply Investor Machine Marketing Partnership: Are you looking for consistent, high quality lead generation? Investor Machine is America's #1 lead generation service professional investors. Investor Machine provides true ‘white glove' support to help you build the perfect marketing plan, then we'll execute it for you…talking and working together on an ongoing basis to help you hit YOUR goals! Learn more here: http://www.investormachine.com Coaching with Mike Hambright: Interested in 1 on 1 coaching with Mike Hambright? Mike coaches entrepreneurs looking to level up, build coaching or service based businesses (Mike runs multiple 7 and 8 figure a year businesses), building a coaching program and more. Learn more here: https://investorfuel.com/coachingwithmike Attend a Vacation/Mastermind Retreat with Mike Hambright: Interested in joining a “mini-mastermind” with Mike and his private clients on an upcoming “Retreat”, either at locations like Cabo San Lucas, Napa, Park City ski trip, Yellowstone, or even at Mike's East Texas “Big H Ranch”? Learn more here: http://www.investorfuel.com/retreat Property Insurance: Join the largest and most investor friendly property insurance provider in 2 minutes. Free to join, and insure all your flips and rentals within minutes! There is NO easier insurance provider on the planet (turn insurance on or off in 1 minute without talking to anyone!), and there's no 15-30% agent mark up through this platform! Register here: https://myinvestorinsurance.com/ New Real Estate Investors - How we can work together: Investor Fuel Club (Coaching and Deal Partner Community): Looking to kickstart your real estate investing career? Join our one of a kind Coaching Community, Investor Fuel Club, where you'll get trained by some of the best real estate investors in America, and partner with them on deals! You don't need $ for deals…we'll partner with you and hold your hand along the way! Learn More here: http://www.investorfuel.com/club —--------------------
Promoting economic mobility and ensuring this generation is better off than the last starts at the local level, because local leaders are closest to the issues and the solutions. Allan Golston from the Gates Foundation joins Clarence Anthony to discuss why economic mobility is so critical to our future and the foundation's goals for the next twenty years as they wind down their operations.For more information, visit us at nlc.org.
Sectoral training programs have emerged as a promising driver of economic mobility for people with low incomes. These programs prepare people for quality jobs in specific industries where there's strong employer demand and an opportunity for career advancement. Studies find that sectoral programs can meaningfully improve participants' earnings, yet not all programs have the support they need to apply the best research evidence to improve their services. In this episode, Leigh Parise talks with three guests: Jessa Valentine, Deputy Director of Learning and Impact at Ascendium Education Group, a collaborator and funder of MDRC's work; Frieda Molina, Director of the MDRC's Economic Mobility, Housing, and Communities Policy Area; and Kelsey Schaberg, MDRC Research Associate. They discuss exciting initiatives like the Economic Mobility Lab at MDRC and the Sector Training Evidence-Building Project — efforts that aim to understand the most important components of sectoral programs and address some of the challenges these programs face.
Send us a textWhat makes some states thrive while others trap people in place? And what does it really mean to be free to move, grow, and flourish?In this episode, I talk with economist Justin Callais about the deep connections between personal fulfillment, economic mobility, and institutional quality. We begin with the personal: why real change starts internally, and how self-mastery and agency are prerequisites for meaningful, external progress. Then, we zoom out to ask: what kinds of systems make it easier for people to rise?We explore questions like:What is economic mobility—and what does it look like in practice?Why is Utah the top-performing states on the Archbridge Institute's Social Mobility Index, while Louisiana lags behind?How do factors like governance quality, opportunity, and freedom of movement shape people's life outcomes?What role do individuals, institutions, and state policies play in promoting (or restricting) upward mobility?Justin Callais is the chief economist at the Archbridge Institute. He studies development economics, polycentric governance, and the institutional roots of freedom and flourishing.If you've ever wondered why where you live matters—or what it takes to build a society where people can truly move up in life—this conversation is for you.Want to explore more?James Heckman on Inequality and Economic Mobility, an EconTalk podcastRaj Chetty on Economic Mobility, an EconTalk podcastArnold Kling, The Kids Are...Different, at EconlibKerianne Lawson on Equal Economic Freedoms, a Great Antidote podcastJeremy Horpedahl on the Real Cost of Thriving Index, a Great Antidote podcastSupport the showNever miss another AdamSmithWorks update.Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
2025 marks 120 years for United Way of Greater Atlanta. Milton J. Little, Jr., president and CEO of UWGA, discusses their long-standing mission, their resiliency, and their ongoing efforts to improve economic mobility across 13 metro counties by providing access to services and resources. Plus, Grant Wallace, known for his lawncare and glass recycling businesses featured on “Closer Look,” returns to the program to share his latest venture: The Southern Shmooze. The serial entrepreneur talks with Rose about his new business directory that was born from a Facebook group. He also shares how it’s helping Atlanta area residents connect with business owners.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On today's show, we hear how Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art is partnering with the Arkansas Schools for the Blind & Visually Impaired and the Deaf to pilot a program to educate and provide access. Also, Ozarks at Large's Matthew Moore reports that the city of Fayetteville is collaborating with a local nonprofit to increase economic mobility. Plus, a new edition of Sound Perimeter with Lia Uribe.
Send us a textRyan Streeter is the executive director of the Civitas Institute at the University of Texas at Austin. Today, he tells us about his time in the intersection of think tanks, government, and academic communities. We talk about cities, the importance of mobility and growth, how to foster those characteristics, skepticism of government, and living in and creating a community that fosters social cohesion and critical thinking. Want to explore more?Alain Bertaud on Urban Planning and Cities, a Great Antidote podcast.Raj Chetty on Economic Mobility, an EconTalk podcast.Scott Winship on Poverty and Welfare, a Great Antidote podcast.Charles Murray on Dignity and the American Dream, a Future of Liberty podcast.Jeremy Horpedahl, Americans are Still Thriving, at Econlib.Support the showNever miss another AdamSmithWorks update.Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
In this episode of Work in Progress, we dive into the significant contribution that immigrants and foreign-born workers already make to our economy and explore ways to create better pathways to economic mobility through education and training. In March, at SXSW EDU in Austin, WorkingNation brought together business, education, and nonprofit leaders for a discussion on the subject. Joining me on stage at the conference were Katie Brown, founder and chief education officer for EnGen; Jina Krause-Vilmar, CEO of Upwardly Global; and Arturo Cázares, CEO of Latino Business Action Network. There are 47.8 million immigrants in our country. That's about 14% of the population. One in five workers in our country is an immigrant. Immigrants and foreign-born workers generate trillions in economic activity and tax revenue. Economists argue that reducing immigration could have a major negative impact on GDP growth. The immigrant workforce is diverse, touching every industry and community. Immigrants have a range of educational and skill levels, from low-wage workers to entrepreneurs to highly-educated professionals. And there are barriers to economic mobility for all levels of the immigrant population. These hurdles include lack of English skills, difficulties getting professional credentials and qualifications earned in other countries recognized in the U.S., lack of access to capital, and lack of access to career navigation and support services. My conversation with Brown, Krause-Vilmar, and Cázares looks at those barriers and what is being done to break them down for the contribution by immigrants to our economic growth can be even greater. The podcast here also includes the lively discussion with the audience members who joined us in the room. My thanks to the panelists and the audience, and to SXSW EDU for giving us the stage for this important conversation. I also want to share my gratitude and thanks to my colleague Laura Aka for bringing this panel together and sharing her insights and knowledge with us on the subject. I encourage everyone to take the time to listen. You can listen to the full podcast here or wherever you get your podcasts. You can also find our podcasts on the Work in Progress YouTube channel. Episode 359: From SXSW EDU: Katie Brown, Jina Krause-Vilmar, and Arturo CázaresHost & Executive Producer: Ramona Schindelheim, Editor-in-Chief, WorkingNationProducer: Larry BuhlTheme Music: Composed by Lee Rosevere and licensed under CC by 4Transcript: Download the transcript for this episode hereWork in Progress Podcast: Catch up on previous episodes here
In this episode of Work in Progress, we dive into the significant contribution that immigrants and foreign-born workers already make to our economy and explore ways to create better pathways to economic mobility through education and training. In March, at SXSW EDU in Austin, WorkingNation brought together business, education, and nonprofit leaders for a discussion on the subject. Joining me on stage at the conference were Katie Brown, founder and chief education officer for EnGen; Jina Krause-Vilmar, CEO of Upwardly Global; and Arturo Cázares, CEO of Latino Business Action Network. There are 47.8 million immigrants in our country. That's about 14% of the population. One in five workers in our country is an immigrant. Immigrants and foreign-born workers generate trillions in economic activity and tax revenue. Economists argue that reducing immigration could have a major negative impact on GDP growth. The immigrant workforce is diverse, touching every industry and community. Immigrants have a range of educational and skill levels, from low-wage workers to entrepreneurs to highly-educated professionals. And there are barriers to economic mobility for all levels of the immigrant population. These hurdles include lack of English skills, difficulties getting professional credentials and qualifications earned in other countries recognized in the U.S., lack of access to capital, and lack of access to career navigation and support services. My conversation with Brown, Krause-Vilmar, and Cázares looks at those barriers and what is being done to break them down for the contribution by immigrants to our economic growth can be even greater. The podcast here also includes the lively discussion with the audience members who joined us in the room. My thanks to the panelists and the audience, and to SXSW EDU for giving us the stage for this important conversation. I also want to share my gratitude and thanks to my colleague Laura Aka for bringing this panel together and sharing her insights and knowledge with us on the subject. I encourage everyone to take the time to listen. You can listen to the full podcast here or wherever you get your podcasts. You can also find our podcasts on the Work in Progress YouTube channel. Episode 359: From SXSW EDU: Katie Brown, Jina Krause-Vilmar, and Arturo CázaresHost & Executive Producer: Ramona Schindelheim, Editor-in-Chief, WorkingNationProducer: Larry BuhlTheme Music: Composed by Lee Rosevere and licensed under CC by 4Transcript: Download the transcript for this episode hereWork in Progress Podcast: Catch up on previous episodes here
WYCE's Community Connection (*conversations concerning issues of importance in West Michigan)
In this episode, WYCE Station manager, Phil Tower speaks with Nik Thomasma, the Executive Director of The Michigan Music Alliance.The Michigan Music Alliance is presenting the Music Econ Summit at the Grand Rapids Center for Community Transformation in partnership with Monk Recordings LLC., Push the City Cipher and Triumph Music Academy.The Music Econ Summit was founded in 2024 by Monk Mattheus, founder of Monk Recordings LLC., and is happening again this year, April 11-13 at The Grand Rapids Center for Community Transformation.The Music Econ Summit brings together music industry experts and professionals for 3 days of educational workshops, panel discussions, networking and showcase opportunities all focused on sustainable income strategies and upward economic mobility for the Michigan music community. Scholarships are available.Registration and details are at The Michigan Music Alliance.
Targeted networks and student-centered approaches can transform educational outcomes for under-resourced communities. By connecting Historically Black and Predominantly Black Community Colleges, Alabama Possible is changing narratives, amplifying student voices, and creating economic pathways in one of the nation's poorest states. Join CCA Alliance Engagement Director Jamia Stokes in conversation with Alabama Possible Executive Director Chandra Scott.
Highlights from this week's conversation include:Ian's Journey in Wealth Management (0:41)Founding Westfuller Advisors (5:05)Challenges in Early Days (10:36)Current Differentiation and Pitch (12:18)Long-term Strategic Asset Allocation Model (14:37)Ownership Lens Focus (16:57)Advocacy for Due Diligence (18:16)Economic Mobility and Career Decisions (22:32)Insider Segmeng: Catalyst 2045 Initiative Overview (25:59)Investment Focus Areas (28:32)Challenges in Supporting Underrepresented Founders (32:16)Future of Values-Aligned Investing (35:04)Investment in Generative AI (40:56)Incremental Impact in Investment (43:46)Active Ownership and Corporate Stewardship (46:43)Building Long-Term Partnerships (48:39)Final Thoughts and Takeaways (50:55)Westfuller Advisors is a values-driven investment advisory and wealth management firm dedicated to providing advice, strategy, and investment management for mission-aligned individuals, families, nonprofits, and foundations globally. Committed to fostering a just and equitable society, Westfuller integrates clients' values into tailored financial solutions. Learn more: https://westfulleradvisors.com/Silicon Valley Bank (SVB), a division of First Citizens Bank, is the bank of the world's most innovative companies and investors. SVB provides commercial and private banking to individuals and companies in the technology, life science and healthcare, private equity, venture capital and premium wine industries. SVB operates in centers of innovation throughout the United States, serving the unique needs of its dynamic clients with deep sector expertise, insights and connections. SVB's parent company, First Citizens BancShares, Inc. (NASDAQ: FCNCA), is a top 20 U.S. financial institution with more than $200 billion in assets. First Citizens Bank, Member FDIC. Learn more at svb.com.Swimming with Allocators is a podcast that dives into the intriguing world of Venture Capital from an LP (Limited Partner) perspective. Hosts Alexa Binns and Earnest Sweat are seasoned professionals who have donned various hats in the VC ecosystem. Each episode, we explore where the future opportunities lie in the VC landscape with insights from top LPs on their investment strategies and industry experts shedding light on emerging trends and technologies. The information provided on this podcast does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice; instead, all information, content, and materials available on this podcast are for general informational purposes only.
On this episode of MHD Off the Record, MHD sits down with Abigail Marquez, General Manager of the Community Investment for Families Department (CIFD), and Michael Tubbs, Founder of Mayors for a Guaranteed Income (MGI) and Special Advisor to Governor Gavin Newsom. Together, they dive into the realities of Guaranteed Basic Income (GBI)—a policy designed to provide no-strings-attached cash payments to individuals and families in need.With millions struggling to make ends meet, we ask: Does GBI empower people to escape poverty, or does it foster dependency? Our guests share insights from pilot programs in Los Angeles and Stockton, breaking down the data, misconceptions, and long-term impact of direct cash assistance.Abigail R. Marquez serves as the General Manager of the City of Los Angeles' Community Investment for Families Department (CIFD), a position she has held since 2021. With nearly 21 years of experience advancing anti-poverty initiatives in Los Angeles, Marquez plays a key role in overseeing programs designed to disrupt generational poverty and support low-income residents. She is responsible for administering the City's Consolidated Plan, which allocates around $120 million in federal funds annually to support various capital projects and social services. This includes managing 20 FamilySource Centers and services for domestic violence and human trafficking survivors. Under her leadership, CIFD has implemented notable initiatives, including the Guaranteed Basic Income pilot program (BIG), the largest of its kind in the nation, and the Opportunity LA Children's Savings Account program, which helps thousands of first-graders build financial security. Prior to this role, she was the Assistant General Manager at the Los Angeles Housing and Community Investment Department (HCIDLA), where she led efforts in community services and development.Michael Tubbs is the Founder of the Non-profit organization, End Poverty in California (EPIC), the Founder of Mayors for a Guaranteed Income (MGI), and the Special Advisor to California Governor Gavin Newsom for Economic Mobility and Opportunity. In 2016, he was elected Mayor of Stockton at 26-years-old. He was the city's first African-American Mayor, and the youngest Mayor of any major city in American history. As Mayor, Tubbs was lauded for his leadership and innovation. He raised over $20 million dollars to create the Stockton Scholars, a universal scholarship and mentorship program for Stockton students. Additionally, he piloted the first mayor-led guaranteed income pilot in the country. His book, The Deeper the Roots: A Memoir of Hope and Home, where he details the experiences of his life is available now wherever books are sold.Community AnnouncementsFree Tax PrepThere are free tax prep locations all across LA. Here are four locations where you can get help:All People's Community Center – South LABarrio Action Youth & Family Center – El SerenoEl Nido Family Center – South LA & PacoimaWest Adams/Leimert Park FamilySource CenterVisit www.FreeTaxPrepLA.org to find a location near you and book an appointment today.Impacted Worker & Family Recovery CentersProviding family support, job assistance, youth services, and small business resources at no cost. Open Monday - Friday 9 to 5pmWest LA WorkSource Center (JVS-SoCal)5446 Sepulveda Blvd., Culver City, CA 90230310-309-6000Northeast San Fernando Valley WorkSource Center (Mission College)13356 Eldridge Ave., Campus Center, Sylmar, CA 91342818-482-1754West Adams/Leimert Park FamilySource Center4305 Degnan Blvd., Suite 105, Los Angeles, CA...
“Homeownership is the American Dream.” This saying is so ingrained in our zeitgeist that most Americans don't even pause to question it. However, according to the Black Knights Home Price Index, the average US home price increased nearly 80% from April 2015 to April 2023. Census data reveals that the median household income only increased by 4% during this period. Homeownership has thus become increasingly out of reach, especially for young professionals. So, how did the American Dream become an American nightmare?In his brand new book, “Stuck: How the Privileged in the Propertied Broke the Engine of American Opportunity,” The Atlantic's Deputy Editor Yoni Appelbaum offers a contrarian view, arguing that the crisis in American homeownership isn't actually about cost—it's about mobility. There are many places in America where housing remains affordable and even dirt cheap. The problem is that those affordable options are in less desirable locations, with fewer opportunities for high-quality jobs, education, and health care. Thus, young professionals continue to migrate to communities where opportunities are bountiful, but housing is not.Appelbaum joins Bethany and Luigi to discuss how Americans got “stuck.” Why does mobility matter so much? What are the implications of reduced mobility for Americans' faith in capitalism and the belief that our country is still the land of opportunity? If treating a home as an investment—which many of us do—means less mobility, is being “stuck” so wrong for society? Together, the three of them unpack this entangled question of mobility, homeownership, and what it means for the reformulation of the American Dream.Capitalisn't episodes mentioned:Shattering Immigration Myths: Data Beyond Borders, with Leah BoustanRaj Chetty's Surprising New Insights on How Children SucceedWhat Happened to the American Dream? With David LeonhardtRead an excerpt from Appelbaum's book on ProMarket (Penguin Random House)
Sector-based training programs prepare people for jobs in specific industries where there is strong local demand and an opportunity for career advancement. Several models for technology jobs have been found to be effective in improving long-term earnings for workers with low incomes. But for many people, the programs are too expensive and too far from home. With support from the $100-million Google Career Certificates Fund, Social Finance is leading an initiative that will allow training providers to better support 20,000 learners in getting industry-recognized certificates that can lead to better wages. The providers combine Google Career Certificates, which offer online instruction in sector-specific skills, and outcomes-based loans, in which learners are only required to pay for training and related costs if they find jobs above a certain income threshold. Learners also receive supportive services, such as living stipends or childcare assistance, and career-related guidance. MDRC's study will examine how training providers make use of online training courses and financing, how learners experience the programs, and how learners fare in the labor market. In this episode, Leigh Parise talks with Edith Yang, project director and Senior Research Associate at MDRC, about the initiative and the research questions MDRC is hoping to answer.
It's YOUR time to #EdUp In this episode, #1,002, President Series (Powered By Ellucian) #325, & brought to YOU by the InsightsEDU 2025 conference YOUR guest is Dr. David A. Tandberg, President, Adams State University YOUR host is Dr. Joe Sallustio How does serving 5 of Colorado's 10 lowest-income counties shape Adams State's mission? What makes the "Adams Promise" & direct admissions a game-changer for access? How is the one-stop student service center transforming the student experience? Why is being Hispanic-serving different than Hispanic-enrolling? How are grow-your-own initiatives keeping talent in the San Luis Valley? What strategies drive success in state funding advocacy? Ad-Free & extended conversation ONLY for #EdUp Subscribers includes: Dr. Tandberg's insights on public policy strategy & state funding The art of crafting compelling narratives for legislative presentations His perspective on building relationships with other institutions Strategic approaches to Joint Budget Committee testimony Views on preparation vs perception in leadership communications Listen in to #EdUp Do YOU want to accelerate YOUR professional development? Do YOU want to get exclusive early access to ad-free episodes, extended episodes, bonus episodes, original content, invites to special events, & more? Do YOU want to get all this while helping to sustain EdUp? Then BECOME A SUBSCRIBER TODAY! Want to get YOUR organization to pay for YOUR subscription? Email EdUp@edupexperience.com Thank YOU so much for tuning in. Join us on the next episode for YOUR time to EdUp! Connect with YOUR EdUp Team - Elvin Freytes & Dr. Joe Sallustio ● Join YOUR EdUp community at The EdUp Experience! We make education YOUR business!
In this episode, host Kent Hance welcomes Senator Phil Gramm, a former senator and economist, to discuss his book, "The Myth of American Inequality." The conversation highlights their shared experiences in Congress and focuses on Gramm's critique of government statistics on income inequality and poverty. Gramm argues that the narrative of the rich getting richer while the poor get poorer is misleading, presenting data to support his claims. He emphasizes the importance of accurate data in shaping public policy and advocates for work requirements in government assistance programs to promote self-sufficiency. Timestamps by PodSqueezeIntroduction of Senator Gramm (00:00:04) The speaker introduces Senator Phil Gramm, highlighting their friendship and shared congressional experiences. Senator Gramm's Background (00:01:21) Gramm discusses his origins in Fort Benning, Georgia, and his academic background in economics. Overview of "The Myth of American Inequality" (00:02:03) Gramm introduces his new book, challenging the narrative of growing income inequality in America. Government Statistics on Poverty (00:02:27) Gramm critiques government statistics, showing discrepancies in poverty rates despite increased welfare spending. Transfer Payments and Income Reporting (00:04:25) Discussion on how the Census Bureau underreports transfer payments, skewing income inequality statistics. Real Income Inequality Statistics (00:06:05) Gramm presents revised statistics showing income inequality is not as severe as reported. Poverty Rate Misconceptions (00:07:49) He argues that the actual poverty rate is significantly lower than commonly believed. Economic Mobility in America (00:08:47) Gramm emphasizes that most children from poor families improve their economic status as adults. Living Standards Comparison (00:09:26) He compares modern lower-income Americans' living standards to those of historical kings. Wealth and Opportunity Perspective (00:10:28) Discussion on how wealth accumulation by individuals does not detract from others' wealth. Envy and Economic Perspectives (00:10:49) The speakers discuss the societal issues of envy and how it affects perceptions of wealth. The Role of Government Assistance (00:13:30) Gramm argues that government assistance programs often fail to reach those truly in need. Welfare Reform Insights (00:15:52) He proposes extending work requirements to all means-tested programs to encourage employment. Job Market Discrepancies (00:16:28) Discussion on the mismatch between job openings and unemployment rates in the current economy. Personal Responsibility and Opportunity (00:17:21) Gramm shares personal anecdotes emphasizing the importance of hard work and opportunity. Need for Accurate Data (00:18:03) He stresses the importance of accurate data in informing public debate on economic policies. Government Transfers and Income Distribution (00:19:40) Gramm discusses the significant amount of money transferred to needy individuals in America. Book Collaboration and Insights (00:20:03) Gramm mentions his co-authors and their contributions to the book's findings. Critique of Income Tax Reporting (00:23:24) He critiques how tax data is reported, emphasizing the importance of context in income discussions. Discussion on Taxation and Billionaires (00:25:12) Senator Gramm critiques the misconception that taxing billionaires can significantly fund government needs. Middle-Income Tax Burden (00:26:14) Speaker 1 highlights how middle-income earners, not billionaires, bear most of the tax burden. Clinton's Tax Increase (00:26:50) Discussion on the tax increase under Clinton, affecting middle-income Americans, not just the wealthy. Job Creation vs. Government Benefits (00:27:45) Speaker 1 shares experiences of losing workers to unemployment benefits that paid more than construction jobs. The Myth of American Inequality (00:30:11) Speaker 1 emphasizes the book's argument against the narrative of growing inequality in America. Capitalism vs. Socialism (00:30:32) Comparison of North and South Korea illustrates the benefits of capitalism over socialism. Reagan Budget Cuts Discussion (00:32:09) Plans to discuss Reagan's budget and tax cuts in a future episode. Funny Anecdote about Locked Keys (00:32:41) A humorous story about Speaker 1 locking his keys in the car at the White House.
How do you fix the disconnect between work and learning? In this episode of Work in Progress, I'm joined by Taylor McLemore, entrepreneur and founder of the Human Potential Summit, and Ryan Stowers, senior vice president of Stand Together and the executive director of the Charles Koch Foundation, organizations that were founding sponsors of the summit. In this conversation from the Human Potential Summit, held in Denver this fall, McLemore and Stowers share their concerns about the state of our current work and learning systems. McLemore describes it as more broken than functional and says education and careers have become disconnected. Stowers agrees, adding that we need to address this disconnect now in order to unleash the human potential in everyone. Both agree it is crucial for economic mobility, democracy, and global competitiveness. In the podcast, we talk about the role employers must play in fixing the system, including a deeper investment in training and developing the workforce. Helping people develop their human potential and find purpose and dignity in their work is also an imperative for the society. You can listen to the entire conversation here, or wherever you get your podcasts. You can also find our podcasts on the Work in Progress YouTube channel. Episode 343: Taylor McLemore, Human Potential Summit, and Ryan Stowers, Stand TogetherHost & Executive Producer: Ramona Schindelheim, Editor-in-Chief, WorkingNationProducer: Larry BuhlTheme Music: Composed by Lee Rosevere and licensed under CC by 4Transcript: Download the transcript for this episode hereWork in Progress Podcast: Catch up on previous episodes here
Is race a more consequential determinant of social mobility than class? How and under what circumstances do Americans move up the economic ladder?For years, Harvard economist Raj Chetty has leveraged big data to answer these questions. In his recent paper, Chetty and his team show that Black millennials born to low-income parents have more quickly risen up the economic ladder than previous Black generations, whereas their white counterparts have fared worse than previous low-income white generations. That said, Chetty finds little movement in or out of the top income brackets and that the income gap between Black and white Americans remains large.Chetty joins Bethany and Luigi to discuss these new insights as well as why mobility matters, what costs come in the pursuit of bolstering mobility, and how other factors such as parenting, gender, and social capital factor into the equation. What policies should America pursue, especially against the backdrop of the 2024 presidential election, where many conservatives argue that white working-class Americans are falling behind and liberals argue that Black and brown Americans continue to face systemic inequalities?Show notes:Revisit our Capitalisn't conversation with Oren Cass, who is mentioned by LuigiRevisit our Capitalisn't conversation on Chile, which is mentioned by BethanyCheck out related coverage on ProMarket, including a write-up by Raj Chetty and co-authors on "Lost Einsteins," mentioned in the episode