Join sociologist Jessica Calarco, author of "Holding It Together: How Women Became America’s Safety Net," as she challenges societal myths of meritocracy that distort our understanding of success. She shares personal insights into gender roles and the undervaluation of women's labor in education and childcare. Delving into wealth inequality, she critiques how inherited advantages shape societal dynamics. Moreover, Jessica advocates for a Scandinavian-style safety net, emphasizing the need for collective action to transform support systems.

Marti Bledsoe, executive director of the Kids Mental Health Foundation, shares her eye-opening journey of burnout and the relentless responsibilities of caregiving. Sociologist Jessica Calarco adds insights into the societal expectations that position women as primary caregivers, often at the expense of their professional aspirations. They discuss the burden of managing health crises, navigating job searches, and the systemic inequalities that persist in caregiving roles. Together, they emphasize the need for collective support and policy changes to better support women caregivers.

Jessica Calarco, an Associate Professor of Sociology, discusses women's vital roles in America's safety net, revealing the challenges they face due to inadequate social support. The podcast explores the impact on caregiving, motherhood, and the need for collective action to reimagine social safety nets for a more equitable society.

Jessica Calarco from University of Wisconsin talks about how women have become America's safety net, exploring the economic gender gap and challenges faced. The podcast delves into the disparities in unpaid labor, societal expectations, and the importance of valuing care work. Discussions also touch on overcoming misconceptions and uniting for societal improvements.

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.