S05E09 - Generational Perspectives on the Economy

In this episode of Finding Common Battle Grounds, we have two new panelists: Jake and Hunter. They are Millennials! We invited them on to give them an opportunity to talk about the challenges of trying to make it in the US in 2026, given the economic situation with expensive housing, high interest rates, inflation, and general expenses. Jake and Hunter both indicate that there is a YOLO attitude among Millennials that is tied to their perception that it isn't possible for them to succeed, so they are living it up to the extent they can without regard for debt. They both also note that some of this is social media's influence and the desire for immediate gratification, and people's unwillingness to struggle and suffer for a while to skimp, save, and eventually build up enough savings to buy a home and stabilize their lives. Even so, it does seem as though there are serious impediments to building wealth for younger generations. We discuss possible causes and consequences.