Single parents in Japan have it tough, but these hardships seem to disproportionately affect single mothers more. This week, filmmaker Rionne McAvoy joins us to discuss the hidden poverty present in one of the world’s richest nations. Hosted by Mara Budgen and produced by Dave Cortez. On this episode:  Mara Budgen: Articles | X  Rionne McAvoy: Website | X  Read/View more:  Documentary shines a spotlight on Japan’s single mothers (Louise George Kittaka, The Japan Times) Pandemic magnifies household gender roles in Japan (Mara Budgen, The Japan Times) “The Ones Left Behind: The Plight of Single Mothers in Japan” (official website) Heartful Family  Get in touch: Send us feedback at [email protected]. Support the show by rating, reviewing and sharing the episode with a friend if you’ve enjoyed it. For a transcript of the show, visit japantimes.co.jp, and don’t forget to follow us on X!   Image Caption (JT): A scene from "The Ones Left Behind," which documents the successes and struggles of single mothers in Japan. | JAPAN MEDIA SERVICES