The Better Life Lab tells stories that bring the intersection of work and care to life. For over a decade, we’ve built top-tier research and storytelling capabilities—recruiting seasoned journalists and researchers while equipping new voices to share their experiences in powerful, unexpected ways. Through this work, we spark cultural change and drive progress toward a society where individuals, families, and communities thrive—supported by fair, universal care infrastructure; meaningful work; and cultural norms that value equity, connection, and well-being.

We are scaling our impact across diverse political and cultural landscapes and strengthening our role as a leading voice in the movement to reimagine work and care in the United States. Seeing storytelling as a unique strength and part of our DNA, we aim to provoke narrative shifts that transform norms, policies, and workplace practices. As part of a broader movement, our work contributes to lasting societal change—helping to build a fairer, more caring America for all.

The New America Fellows Program supports thinkers, creators, and storytellers whose work shapes public conversation on the defining issues of our time. Each year, we select a diverse group of writers, journalists, filmmakers, and innovators who pursue ambitious investigative projects that bridge storytelling with research and lived experience.

Through unrestricted funding, a supportive community, and increased visibility, New America Fellows bring big, bold ideas to life—through books, films, longform articles, podcasts, and other creative nonfiction narrative forms.

Public education is a pillar of American prosperity and civic life. From birth to school, college, and work, everyone deserves the opportunity to learn. But for too many students, education is inadequate, underfunded, and disconnected from good jobs. New America’s Education & Work issue area is dedicated to providing the best of education to everyone, especially the historically marginalized, starting in the earliest years and continuing throughout their lives.

Join PAYA National Partner Advance CTE for a CTE 101 session designed for youth apprenticeship intermediaries and advocates new to youth app