S4E12: Diane Whitmore Schanzenbach, Labor, Northwestern University

This week, I’m thrilled to have Diane Whitmore Schanzenbach as my guest. Diane is the Margaret Walker Alexander Professor in the School of Education and Social Policy at Northwestern University and a leading voice in the economics of poverty, education, and public policy. Her research focuses on how major programs like SNAP, Medicaid, and early childhood education impact children’s long-term outcomes. Diane has published in top-tier journals, testified before Congress, and served in key leadership roles, including as director of the Hamilton Project at Brookings and as director of Northwestern’s Institute for Policy Research.

Diane is also part of my ongoing series exploring economists with connections to Princeton’s Industrial Relations Section. As a former student of the late Alan Krueger, Diane brings a unique perspective to the show, and it was a privilege to hear about her journey—from her work at the Council of Economic Advisers to her impactful research and academic career.

Thank you, Diane, for joining me, and thank you for listening! I hope you enjoy the conversation.

Scott's Mixtape Substack is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

Get full access to Scott's Mixtape Substack at causalinf.substack.com/subscribe