In this episode, Joe Waters and US Representative Becca Balint speak about the crisis of loneliness and disconnection in America. They discuss the lack of social support for parents of young children, the impact of economic inequality on social cohesion, and the role of social media in exacerbating loneliness. They also explore potential solutions, such as investing in physical infrastructure to create spaces for social interaction and enacting policies that support families and communities. Representative Balint emphasizes the importance of diagnosing the problem and working together across the political spectrum to find solutions.

Rep. Becca Balint is a mom, teacher, and progressive leader who comes to Washington ready to fight for working families. Becca is the first woman and openly LGBTQ person to represent her home state of Vermont. As the daughter of a working-class mother and immigrant father, Becca is deeply committed to defending American democracy and protecting vulnerable communities. This Congress, Becca serves as Congressional Progressive Caucus Vice Chair for New Members and as a Co-Chair of the Congressional Equality Caucus. She is a member of the House Judiciary Committee, and the Budget Committee. 

Joe Waters is the co-founder and CEO of Capita. Since starting Capita in 2018, Joe has developed an array of initiatives to explore the major transformations of our time—social, demographic, cultural, technological, environmental, and economic—and anticipate their potential impacts on families and their communities worldwide.

Capita is an independent think tank and community. We anticipate global change, shape narratives, and partner with leaders to craft effective policies for a future in which families and their communities can flourish.