In this episode, Messellech “Selley” Abebe sits down with economist Kathryn Edwards to unpack the economic challenges facing children and families, particularly in child care and education. Edwards is a labor economist and independent policy consultant whose research focuses on the intersection of labor markets and public policy. She joins us to break down complex economic ideas, connecting the dots between big-picture policy and everyday life. This conversation offers both practical knowledge and a sense of hope for those working to build a better economic future for children and families.

To learn more about Kathryn Edwards’ work, visit kathrynanneedwards.com. You can follow her on Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter. Lastly, be sure to check out her podcast Optimist Economy. 

Want to keep digging into the real-life impact policy decisions have on children? Here’s some of what First Focus on Children has published recently:

How H.R. 1 Will Harm Children Now and Far Into the Future

Three Ways that the Reconciliation Bill’s School Voucher Program Hurts Public Schools

How Funding Cuts Threaten the Future of Early Childhood Education

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