Ep 540. Sheryl WuDunn

In season 7, episode 540 of Tavis Smiley, journalist and Pulitzer Prize-winning author Sheryl WuDunn is the guest. Throughout the episode, WuDunn discusses her latest book, "Tightrope: Americans Reaching for Hope," which explores the struggles of working-class families in America.

WuDunn starts by discussing the origins of her inspiration for the book, which came from her observations of her hometown in rural Oregon. She notes that many people from her community have been "dealt a difficult hand in life," such as growing up in poverty or experiencing addiction. WuDunn believes that the issues facing working-class Americans are not simply economic but also social, cultural, and political in nature, and she seeks to address these issues in her book.

Throughout the conversation, WuDunn delves into some of the challenges facing working-class Americans, which include job insecurity, access to healthcare, and a lack of social mobility. Additionally, she notes that these challenges are often compounded by issues of race and gender, with people of color and women facing additional barriers in accessing economic opportunities.

One of the key themes of "Tightrope" is the opioid epidemic and the devastating impact it has had on working-class communities. WuDunn discusses some of the personal stories she encountered while researching the book, including the story of a mother who lost both her sons to overdose. She argues that the opioid epidemic is indicative of larger issues facing working-class Americans, including a lack of access to healthcare and mental health resources.

WuDunn also spends time discussing some of the potential solutions to the issues facing working-class Americans. She argues that the government has a crucial role to play in addressing these challenges, including through policies that support access to education, healthcare, and job training. Additionally, WuDunn advocates for a shift in cultural attitudes towards working-class Americans, calling for more empathy and understanding towards those who have been dealt difficult hands in life.

Overall, season 7, episode 540 of Tavis Smiley is a thought-provoking and timely discussion on the challenges facing working-class Americans. Sheryl WuDunn's insights and personal stories provide a unique perspective on these issues, while also shedding light on potential solutions to these complex challenges. The episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in the economic and social issues facing America today.