On Episode 5, we cure our political fatigue with an interview with Elizabeth Fiedler, a progressive Democrat running for a seat in the PA House. We also chat about wage equity laws, salary negotiations, and why you—yes, you—should run for office.

If you’re anything like us, you’re tired as hell of what’s happening in politics: corruption, sexism, and misogyny are on full display. Immigrants are under attack, reproductive rights are under attack, environmental protections are under attack. The list could go on. But despite it all, we’re not about to sit and sulk. Instead, we want to talk about the legislation and candidates we’re excited about—because we could all use some hope right now.

> So many of us are held back just by that feeling that like, “Hmm, maybe there’s someone else out there who is more qualified. Maybe there’s someone else who would be better at this.” And in some cases: sure, there is. In many cases, there is not. It’s us! We’re the ones.

> _—[Elizabeth Fiedler](https://elizabethfiedler.com/), Candidate for PA House District 184_

Here’s what’s on the docket in Episode 5:

### Hey employers: pay up

First up, we talk about one of our favorite topics: getting paid—fairly. Here in Philly, we’re upset about more delays on our first [wage equity ordinance](http://www.phillymag.com/business/2017/11/17/philadelphia-wage-equity-law-ordinance-ban-salary-questions/), which would bar prospective employers from asking about your past salary (which is one of the major ways employers justify continuing to underpay workers from marginalized groups). The law was supposed to take effect in January, but the Chamber of Commerce filed suit—again. Their first lawsuit, last summer, was thrown out for lack of evidence that it would harm businesses.

But wage equity laws are coming. California’s went into effect in January, and a bunch more are cropping up all over. And when an economy the size of California makes a law, it tends to have a ripple effect. Now some [big employers are announcing](https://www.bna.com/amazon-bofa-join-n73014474845/) that they won’t ask for past pay info, either.

While we’re on the topic of compensation, we also chat about how to negotiate those challenging money conversations—and how to avoid getting backed into a corner (or in Katel’s case, a phone booth) to accept an offer that’s not up to snuff.

### Elect. More. Women.

Next on the show, we talk with Elizabeth Fiedler, a candidate in May’s primary for a seat in the PA House, representing the 184th District. That’s the heart of South Philly, where Sara and Jenn both live. Lizz took a break from knocking doors (literally—she is always out there knocking doors) to talk with us about her run. We cover:

Showing up at campaign events with an infant strapped to your body.

How much we need single-payer healthcare in Pennsylvania—and everywhere.

Wearing blue blazers and real pants. Like, without stretch.

How to know if you should run for office (hint: if you’re thinking about it, you probably should do it).

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