This episode of Fresh Air features an interview with former Labor Secretary Robert Reich, discussing his new memoir, "Coming Up Short: A Memoir of My America." Reich apologizes on behalf of the Baby Boomer generation for failing to build a decent and just society, pointing to widening inequality and corporate power. The conversation covers Trump's nomination for the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the economic shifts since the 1980s, and decisions made during the Clinton administration that contributed to inequality, such as trade agreements with China. Reich reflects on his time as Labor Secretary, expressing regret for not fighting harder against policies that harmed average working people. He also shares personal anecdotes, including his experiences with bullying and how it shaped his approach to communication and teaching. The episode concludes with a discussion on the challenges of uniting different groups to address systemic issues and Reich's hope for the younger generation to continue the fight for a more just society. The episode also includes a book review by Maureen Corrigan on two new rye novels.
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