In this episode, Emma Holten shares her views and advocates for systemic change in how care work is valued and measured in both economies and societies worldwide. As a feminist activist, keynote speaker, writer, consultant, and advisor, Emma is challenging traditional economic models and exposing the hidden costs of care work. She highlights how society's failure to recognize the true worth of care labor, whether it is paid or unpaid, contributes to the depletion of vital resources and perpetuates inequality.

In her book Deficit (Underskud), Emma delves deep into the often invisible and underappreciated forms of care work that sustain communities, from childcare and eldercare to emotional support and domestic responsibilities and sheds light on how the systematic undervaluing of care work is not merely an economic issue but a reflection of broader social issues, particularly gender inequality and oppression.

By questioning why this vital work is so consistently ignored and underpaid, Emma calls attention to the harmful consequences of a society that devalues caregiving roles, leading to an imbalanced and unsustainable social structure.

Emma’s critique extends beyond the individual to encompass the very fabric of modern economies. She emphasizes that the well-being crisis seen in many wealthy nations—where economic prosperity does not translate into a higher quality of life for the majority—points to much deeper systemic issues. 

By drawing attention to this imbalance, Emma pushes for a fundamental shift in how we value time, relationships, and the work that sustains our lives. She calls for a reassessment of what truly matters in society, challenging us to prioritize care and well-being over profit and efficiency.

I hope you’re feeling inspired, cause we’re rooting for you!

xx Julie

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Emma would like to “pass on the goodwill” Lucia Odoom @luciaodoom 

Keep up with Emma

📸 Instagram: @emma.holten

🌍 LinkedIn: Emma Holten 

Book: “Underskud” / “Deficit” 

Keep up with The Female Effect:

📸 Instagram: @thefemaleeffect_

🚀 TikTok: @thefemaleeffect

🌍 Linkedin: @The Female Effect

Image: Nicklas Hemming

Artwork: Birgit Käsper

Jingle: Søren Haahr 

Studio: Enkell Studio

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