Sociologist Jessica Calarco discusses how women in the US serve as the country's safety net, highlighting the challenges they face in caregiving roles with inadequate social support. The episode explores disparities in social security benefits, historical workforce challenges, and the need for policy changes to achieve equity. It also compares social safety nets for women in the US and Europe, emphasizing the importance of strengthening support systems for caregivers.
Women in the U.S. are the backbone of the social safety net, highlighting disparities in support systems between the U.S. and European countries.
State-level initiatives like paid family leave in Colorado reflect a shift towards prioritizing workers' well-being and addressing caregiving challenges, aiming to level the playing field for businesses.
Deep dives
Women's Crucial Role in America's Social Safety Net
Women in the United States play a significant role in upholding the country's social safety net. The podcast highlights how the U.S. lags behind peer nations in providing robust social safety nets, with women often shouldering the responsibility of caring for family members with varying needs. Personal stories illustrate the challenges faced by women, such as managing caregiving responsibilities while dealing with financial constraints.
Comparison with European Social Safety Nets
Comparing the U.S. to European countries, the discussion reveals differences in social support systems. While European nations offer comprehensive programs like paid family leave, universal healthcare, and affordable childcare, the U.S. stands out with its DIY approach, emphasizing individual responsibility over government-backed safety nets.
State-Level Initiatives Addressing Social Support
State-level initiatives in Colorado showcase efforts to enhance social support mechanisms. The successful passage of paid family leave in Colorado reflects a shift in prioritizing workers' well-being and addressing caregiving challenges experienced by women. The move towards comprehensive state programs aims to level the playing field for businesses and improve work-life balance for employees.
Navigating Financial Risks and ESG Concerns
The podcast discusses environmental, social, and governance (ESG) considerations in financial decision-making. The timeframe for addressing risks related to climate change is emphasized, highlighting the need for businesses to integrate ESG factors into their strategies. Long-term horizons, industry specifics, and current climate impacts underscore the evolving landscape of financial risk management.
Other countries have social safety nets. The U.S. has women. In the new book "Holding it Together: How Women Became America's Safety Net," sociologist Jessica Calarco says it’s time that changed.
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