Understanding The Resurgence of Jobs In America's 'Left Behind' Counties

This podcast episode discusses the impact of recent infrastructure investments on job growth and workers' lives. It explores how investments in industries such as construction, semiconductors, and clean energy have led to an increase in jobs, but also raises concerns about the quality of these jobs. The conversation highlights the positive outlook for the country, but acknowledges the challenges in making workers aware of how their lives have been impacted by the Biden administration's initiatives. It also delves into the complexities of funding for left-behind communities and the political context that affects public support for these investments. The episode emphasizes the importance of creating not just jobs, but good jobs, and the challenges faced by unions in today's economy. It features success stories of unionization efforts, but also acknowledges the resistance of companies to workers' unions. The economic impact of higher wages and the role of a strong middle class in driving economic growth and reducing inequality are also discussed. The conversation concludes by highlighting the significance of a robust middle class in various aspects of society, including entrepreneurship.