New York City’s affordability crisis is reshaping the conversation about work, wages, and economic mobility. But what would it take to ensure more New Yorkers can access jobs that truly sustain a family — and build a future?

In this episode, we’re joined by Judith Smith, Director of the NYC Workforce Funders Collaborative; Lauren Melodia, Director of Economic and Fiscal Policies at the Center for New York City Affairs at The New School; and Audrey Jenkins, Research Associate at the Center for New York City Affairs.

Together, they help us unpack how middle-wage jobs fit into NYC’s broader affordability agenda and what it will take to connect more workers to them.