The Gig is Up
In this episode of [un]phased unedited, Dr. Shaunna and Dr. Lisa tackle two of today's most pressing workforce conversations: the changing nature of employment and the growing instability within higher education. From corporate DEI decisions to the realities of adjunct faculty labor, this episode explores what happens when institutions prioritize flexibility, cost-cutting, and short-term solutions over sustainable investments in people.
The conversation begins with a deep dive into the "gig economy", a labor model built around independent, short-term, and flexible work arrangements rather than traditional full-time employment.
Next, contrary to popular narratives, the study discussed in the episode found no evidence that companies were financially penalized for continuing their DEI efforts.
Then, the second half of the episode shifts to higher education and the increasing reliance on adjunct faculty and how universities now employ hundreds of thousands of adjunct instructors who often work without benefits, job security, or sustainable compensation.
Mentioned in the show
DEI policies brought no financial penalty for companies that kept them, study finds - CBS News
Markets Do Not Punish Firms for Maintaining DEI - Hanna Folsz and Jacob M. Grumbach, August 2026
Seeking a Place in Academia, GU Adjuncts Struggle to Make Ends Meet – The Hoya, GU
Adjunct Faculty in the Higher Education Workforce – CUPA-HR
Adjuncting Until the End of Time – The Nation
