Alina Selyukh

In a compelling discussion, Alina Selyukh, NPR's business correspondent on employment and labor, highlights the legislative hurdles facing President Biden's $2 trillion social spending plan. She dives into the surge in labor movements across the U.S., driven by essential workers seeking better pay and conditions amid rising costs. The conversation also sheds light on pandemic-induced wage increases and the implications for minimum wage debates, showcasing a pivotal moment in workers' rights.

Alina Selyukh, an NPR reporter specializing in the food service industry, dives into the growing trend of food service workers leaving for better opportunities. She discusses how workers have gained unprecedented bargaining power, resulting in a mass exodus from restaurants. Challenges for owners, particularly in areas with housing shortages, are highlighted alongside the impact of the pandemic. The conversation also touches on the struggle for sustainable wages versus temporary hiring bonuses, showcasing personal stories of workers seeking improved conditions.