The Missing Middle with Mike Moffatt and Cara Stern

In this episode, conservative pundit Sabrina Maddeaux and economist Mike Moffatt discuss the potential of factory built homes as a solution to the housing crisis. They explore the promises made by politicians regarding prefabricated housing, the spectrum of factory built homes, and the claims of reduced construction times, costs, and emissions. The conversation delves into the current challenges faced in North America, including regulatory barriers and municipal approvals.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Factory Built Homes (FBH)01:34 Innovation in homebuilding03:25 Understanding the spectrum of factory built homes05:22  Claims of speed, cost, and emissions07:45 Current challenges in North America09:33 Where do the reductions in emissions come from?10:18 Perceptions of FBH among younger generations13:30 Regulatory barriers to adoption15:41 Municipal approvals and their impact17:40 Where would the election promise money go?19:19 The potential benefits for traditional builders20:12 Optimism for the future of FBHResearch/Links:Scott AitchisonBuilding More, Building FasterCaivanWhy is it So Hard to Mass-Produce Housing?Eight Pieces of Housing Advice to the Prime MinisterHosted by Mike Moffatt & Cara Stern & Sabrina Maddeaux Produced by Meredith Martin This podcast is funded by the Neptis Foundation and brought to you by the Smart Prosperity Institute.

In this episode of The Missing Middle podcast, hosts Sabrina Maddeaux and Mike Moffatt discuss the impossible trinity that broke Canadian housing. They explore the implications of stagnant neighborhoods, population growth, and government policies that hinder housing affordability. The conversation delves into the complexities of urban planning, the impact of NIMBYism, and the need for realistic solutions to address the housing crisis.Chapters00:00 Introduction01:06 Gregor Robertson's rough start as Minister of Housing03:51 Increased government housing would impact home prices05:06 Understanding the Impossible Trinity that broke housing07:37 Examples of cities doing two of three10:03 Not allowed to grow up or out equals spiking prices11:21 The illusion of legalized fourplexes14:15 Ottawa's zoning reform and stupid two-story height limit17:33 Toronto's wealthiest areas are the least dense18:20 Proposed solutions for housing affordabilityResearch links:The Impossible Trinity that Broke Canadian HousingCan Homes Become Affordable Without Prices Going Down?Toronto Star fourplex pieceHow Community Consultation is Ruining DemocracyHosted by Mike Moffatt & Cara Stern & Sabrina Maddeaux Produced by Meredith Martin This podcast is funded by the Neptis Foundation and brought to you by the Smart Prosperity Institute.

Chapters00:00 Introduction01:13 Job market statistics 02:10 Why the job market is so bad right now04:27 Different ways to measure the job market07:02 Things are particularly bad in Ontario09:02 High unemployment fractures the social fabric11:25 The impact of a slow job market on lifetime earning13:32 How youth unemployment shapes political priorities14:58 Will the soft job market result in increased school enrollment?17:40 Is an improved credential worth the cost?20:41 Job searching lasting over six months22:08 Solutions and policy recommendationsResearch/linksCanadian Labour Market Update Q1 2025: Jobs in PurgatoryOntario's unemployment rate jumps to 7% even as ‘moderate' job creation continuesAlex Usher blog - Opportunity and TalentSomething Alarming Is Happening to the Job MarketAbundance by Ezra Klein and Derek Thompson review – make America build againHosted by Mike Moffatt & Cara Stern & Sabrina Maddeaux Produced by Meredith Martin This podcast is funded by the Neptis Foundation and brought to you by the Smart Prosperity Institute.

He's got 215,000 YouTube subscribers and millions of views. The urban planner and YouTube creator Uytae Lee sits down with Sabrina Maddeaux and Mike Moffatt to have a fun and wide-ranging conversation about housing and the systemic hurdles to building more of it. Uytae shares insights on creating engaging content about housing, urban planning, design and the realities of YouTube monetization. The discussion also touches on the challenges of prefabricated housing, the need for innovation and some free advice for the new prime minister of Canada.Chapters00:00 Introduction 01:14 Understanding the B.C. housing situation and housing taxes04:12 Getting lucky with single egress video05:41 The impact of building codes on housing08:49 Creating engaging YouTube content12:55 The reality of YouTube monetization14:34 How long it takes to make an About Here video15:41 Are you hopeful about housing?17:44 Political discourse on housing 18:15 Caution around factory built homes as a panacea  21:30 Uytae's favourite form of housing23:35 Good governance could mean good housing policy25:17 Immigration, housing and the backlash 27:24 Start with what you want to create and work backwardsResearch/LinksUytae Lee's YouTube page:The Housing Tax CrisisWhy North America Can't Build Nice Apartments (because of one rule)How Breaking Rules Could Create Better ApartmentsWhy is it So Hard to Mass-Produce Housing?How a SoftBank-Backed Construction Startup Burned Through $3 BillionHow Elevator Rules Cost Us Homes: An Interview with Market UrbanismEight Pieces of Housing Advice to the Prime MinisterHosted by Mike Moffatt & Cara Stern & Sabrina Maddeaux Produced by Meredith Martin This podcast is funded by the Neptis Foundation and brought to you by the Smart Prosperity Institute.

In this episode, conservative pundit Sabrina Maddeaux and economist Mike Moffatt discuss the significant decline in the construction of three-bedroom homes in Ontario, particularly in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). They explore the implications of the 'baby bust' phenomenon, where fewer families are able to afford suitable housing, leading to a decrease in birth rates. The conversation delves into the regulatory barriers and economic conditions that have contributed to the housing crisis, emphasizing the need for policy changes to address the missing middle in housing options. The episode highlights the challenges faced by young families in navigating the current housing market and the importance of providing both rental and ownership opportunities.Chapters00:00 Introduction00:51 The baby bust and housing trends03:08 Why aren't more 3-bedrooms being built?05:3 Home ownership is falling in parts of Ontario08:28 The Missing Middle's North Star09:00 Renting or owning, it should be a choice12:30 Housing and fertility18:14 Should the government step in?19:35 Mike reminisces about Lawn Darts21:00 Urban growth boundaries have consequencesResearch/LinksPoilievre catches heat from opponents for talk of 'biological clocks'The Baby Bust and the Death of the Three-Bedroom Ownership HomeHard evidence on the link between housing and fertility.https://x.com/mikalskuterud/status/1907114728108773444https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=5046571Hosted by Mike Moffatt & Cara Stern & Sabrina Maddeaux Produced by Meredith Martin This podcast is funded by the Neptis Foundation and brought to you by the Smart Prosperity Institute.

In this episode of The Missing Middle, hosts Sabrina Maddeaux and Michael Moffatt discuss the housing platforms of Canada's major federal parties as they approach the April 28 election. They analyze the promises made by the Liberals, Conservatives, and NDP regarding housing starts, affordability, and the implications of these policies on young Canadians. The conversation delves into the commonalities and differences in party platforms, the impact of municipal incentives and rent control, and critiques of the math behind the promises. They also explore the sociological implications of housing policies and the relationship between immigration and housing supply.Chapters00:00 Introduction01:29 Examining the housing start pledges03:53 Housing platform commonalities04:39 Municipal incentives06:55 NDP's rent control promise examined10:47 Eliminating the GST on New Housing13:27 Math is hard for both Liberals and Conservatives and the PBO20:33 Not particularly bold housing ideas24:14 Immigration targets and housingLinks:Liberal PlatformConservative PlatformNDP PlatformHosted by Mike Moffatt & Cara Stern & Sabrina Maddeaux Produced by Meredith Martin This podcast is funded by the Neptis Foundation and brought to you by the Smart Prosperity Institute.

In this conversation, Sabrina Maddeaux and Mike Moffatt are joined by co-host of the Prof G Markets podcast with Scott Galloway, and host the First Time Founders podcast Ed Elson to discuss the economic challenges faced by Gen Z, including their financial struggles, housing affordability, and the rising costs of education. Ed highlights the generational wealth gap, the impact of debt, and the political engagement of Gen Z, emphasizing the need for action beyond social media advocacy. Together they delve into the disconnect between wealth and economic outcomes, particularly focusing on the impact of tariffs and taxation on different socioeconomic classes. They discuss the need for wealth redistribution through new tax policies and the challenges faced by younger generations in navigating financial landscapes. The conversation also touches on the importance of civic engagement and voting, as well as the growing epidemic of loneliness in society. Chapters:00:00 Introduction01:49 Understanding Gen Z's economic struggles06:22 Comparative analysis of the US, UK, and Canada08:34 Factoring in the housing affordability crisis13:29 The debt dilemma: Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL)17:26 The rising cost of education in America21:35 Gen Z's political engagement and activism25:17 Tariffs, stocks, assets and wealth inequality27:38 Taxation and wealth redistribution31:23 The disconnect between wealth and economic outcomes34:08 Investing in stocks and not in crypto38:04 Seeing an opportunity in A.I.41:44 The power of voting and civic engagement44:33 Addressing loneliness and societal trends46:36 The time to turn it around is nowResearch/Links:Can Homes Become Affordable Without Prices Going Down?Trade War Chaos Drives Massive Volatility — ft. Gary Stevenson | Prof G MarketsWhy Tariffs Could Crush Canada's Economy — ft. Mike Moffatt | Prof G MarketsAverage Age Stat of a Home Buyer in America:AI vs. Gen Z: The Hiring War Has BegunExtended Cut: A$AP Rocky Gets Smoooth | KlarnaThe whole E.S.G. thingGuest:Ed Elson https://x.com/edels0nhttps://podcasts.voxmedia.com/host/ed-elsonHosted by Mike Moffatt & Cara Stern & Sabrina Maddeaux Produced by Meredith Martin This podcast is funded by the Neptis Foundation and brought to you by the Smart Prosperity Institute.

In this episode, conservative pundit Sabrina and economist Mike Moffatt speak with David Coletto, CEO of Abacus Data, to explore the evolving landscape of Canadian election polling. They discuss the impact of recent policy changes, particularly the carbon tax, on voter sentiment and the shifting dynamics of affordability issues. The conversation delves into the trends among young voters, particularly young men, and the gender dynamics influencing voting behavior. The discussion also highlights the scarcity mindset surrounding housing and the rising favorability of Mark Carney as a political figure. Chapters00:00 Introduction, David Coletto01:12 Who gets credit for axing the tax?04:34 What happened to the affordability issue?07:20 Young voters, trends and influences11:41 Gender dynamics in voting behavior13:25 Scarcity mindset and housing concerns16:11 Rise of Liberals or collapse of the NDP?17:28 Canadian national unity18:50 Mark Carney's rising favorability22:02 Expectations and the bandwagon effect24:17 Reflections on a pivotal electionThree numbers tell the story of the election this week, and none of them looks good for PoilievreWhy Are Young Men Shifting Right? A Trend I've Been Tracking for a While"Carbon Tax Carney" gets the credit for axing the tax‘It's not over': Two pollsters explain how Mark Carney pulled ahead — and why he shouldn't get too comfortableAbacus Data Poll: Liberals lead by 4PolymarketGuest:David Colettohttps://abacusdata.ca/team/david-coletto/https://davidcoletto.substack.com/Hosts: Sabrina Maddeaux https://x.com/SabrinaMaddeaux Mike Moffatt https://twitter.com/MikePMoffatt https://bsky.app/profile/mikepmoffatt.bsky.socialProducer: Meredith Martin https://twitter.com/meredithmartin https://bsky.app/profile/meredithmartin.bsky.social, https://www.linkedin.com/in/meredith-martin-21108165/This podcast is funded by the Neptis Foundation https://neptis.org/Brought to you by the Missing Middle Initiative https://www.missingmiddleinitiative.ca/Hosted by Mike Moffatt & Cara Stern & Sabrina Maddeaux Produced by Meredith Martin This podcast is funded by the Neptis Foundation and brought to you by the Smart Prosperity Institute.

In this episode, conservative pundit Sabrina Maddeaux and economist mike Moffatt sit down with housing advocate Eric Lombardi to discuss the epic shortcomings of the community consultation processes in Toronto. Lombardi argues that they often fail to represent the diverse voices and interests of the community. He emphasizes the need for a more proactive approach to community engagement that considers the broader needs of neighborhoods rather than reacting to individual developments. The conversation also touches on the implications of property rights, the role of advocacy groups, and the responsibilities of provincial and federal governments in addressing the housing crisis. Lombardi calls for reforms that would streamline the consultation process and make it more democratic, ultimately advocating for a system that empowers citizens and promotes growth.Chapters00:00 Introduction 01:16 Community consultation 05:30 Flaws with the current consultation processes09:21 The anti-democratic nature of current consultations11:23 Consultation as indirect political corruption13:30  The role of community advocacy14:58 The Tindale example17:20 Property rights and freedoms vs stagnation21:17 Reforming the consultation process23:44 Pitching Doug Ford - the province should set the standard29:07 Provincial responsibilities in housing policy31:59 Development changes - Mike's favourite topic33:01 Federal housing policy and political capitalResearch and linksMore NeighboursTrevor Tombe: The ‘Great Canadian Slump' is backGrowth comes to an urban backwaterPlain English with Derek ThompsonAbundance! With Ezra KleinHow Elevator Rules Cost Us Homes: An Interview with Market UrbanismSome examples of public consultations in the news:Vancouver's public consultation process is being abused, critics sayWhy blanket rezoning has become Calgary's biggest housing controversyJudge sides with city in ruling to uphold blanket rezoning'Neighbourhoods are going to change' — Angry reactions as Windsor speeds up home buildsGuest: Eric Lombardi, https://x.com/EricDLombardiHosted by Mike Moffatt & Cara Stern & Sabrina Maddeaux Produced by Meredith Martin This podcast is funded by the Neptis Foundation and brought to you by the Smart Prosperity Institute.

In this episode, Sabrina Maddeaux and Michael Moffatt discuss the critical intersection of the housing crisis and national security in Canada. They explore how the inability to afford housing not only affects individuals but also poses systemic risks to the Canadian economy and society. The conversation delves into the implications of economic vulnerability, the talent exodus to the U.S., and the growing disconnection among younger generations. They emphasize the urgent need for a cohesive housing policy that addresses these interconnected issues to ensure a stable and resilient future for Canada. (This episode was recorded on Friday March 28th before the Liberals dropped their housing platform.)Chapters00:00 Introduction01:00A hidden national security threat04:13 High rents are an internal trade barrier07:08 Talent exodus and economic resilience12:14 Disconnection and generational frustration14:31 World happiness index data doesn't bode well for Canada19:29 Path forward: housing as a national priority22:15 Sabrina points out we have an episode regarding our last episode on immigration and housing 21:41 A few policy ideas and a call to actionLinks for reference:Young people who can't afford homes feel betrayed by their country. Why should they stand up against Trump when Canada has let them down?Canada drops to 18th in 2025 World Happiness Report rank, among the 'largest losers'Managers Have Won the War on Remote Work. But Where Does Everyone Sit?Who Will Swing The Hammer?Hosted by Mike Moffatt & Cara Stern & Sabrina Maddeaux Produced by Meredith Martin This podcast is funded by the Neptis Foundation and brought to you by the Smart Prosperity Institute.

In this conversation Conservative pundit Sabrina Maddeaux and economist Mike Moffatt delve into the recent changes in Canada's immigration policies and their implications for the housing market and population growth. Sabrina and Mike discuss the significant reduction in immigration targets, the impact on housing prices and rents, and the skepticism surrounding the government's ability to meet these new targets. They also explore the methodologies used by various levels of government to determine housing needs and the political ramifications of adjusting housing targets in response to changing population dynamics.Chapters00:00 Introduction01:18 Changes to Canada's immigration policy03:30 Impact on the housing market and rents05:16 Skepticism towards immigration targets07:15 What if some migrants refuse to leave?09:25 Is Ontario giving up on its housing targets?12:00 How does Mike Moffatt's forecasting work?13:13 Should housing targets go down?15:50 Revising the housing targets 17:37 Political risks to backing of home building targetsLinks:Canada Needs to Build 3 Million Homes in 10 Years to Solve the Housing Crisis'Highly unlikely': Trudeau's immigration plan hinges on millions of people leavingBaby Needs a New Home: Projecting Ontario's Growing Number of Families and their Housing NeedsHosted by Mike Moffatt & Cara Stern & Sabrina Maddeaux Produced by Meredith Martin This podcast is funded by the Neptis Foundation and brought to you by the Smart Prosperity Institute.

In this conversation, conservative pundit Sabrina Maddeaux and economist Mike Moffatt discuss the evolving landscape of political polling with David Coletto, CEO of Abacus Data. They explore the significant shifts in voter sentiment influenced by key events such as Justin Trudeau's exit, Mark Carney's rise, and the impact of Donald Trump. The discussion delves into demographic changes, the emergence of a precarity mindset among voters, and the implications for the Liberal Party and the NDP. The conversation also touches on regional dynamics, particularly in Quebec, and the challenges of predicting voter turnout in the upcoming federal election.00:00 Introduction01:24 Shifting Political Landscape in Canada04:08 Is this temporary or permanent?05:13 The demographic shift in people's attitudes towards the Liberals06:52 Understanding the precarity mindset09:40 Why Mark Carney has an advantage12:19 The collapse of the NDP vote?15:50 How do projection models work?17:51 The incumbency factor20:33 Regional dynamics in the Quebec factor23:20 Undecided voters and voter turnout25:05 Election call predictions26:36 Remembering Gordon BrownLinks"Ok, Boomer" - Why Baby Boomers might be the Liberal Party's savioursGordon BrownHosted by Mike Moffatt & Cara Stern & Sabrina Maddeaux Produced by Meredith Martin This podcast is funded by the Neptis Foundation and brought to you by the Smart Prosperity Institute.

In this episode, conservative pundit Sabrina Maddeaux and economist Mike Moffatt explore the growing wage gap between American and Canadian workers, discussing the implications for young Canadians and the factors contributing to this disparity. They delve into the data on emigration, the impact of housing costs, and the need for policy changes to boost productivity and wages in Canada. The conversation also touches on the potential for brain drain and the importance of attracting talent to maintain economic growth. (Full transparency, we recorded this episode before the most recent round of Trump tariffs were imposed on Canada. The content would not have changed in any way although the tone of the discussion around tariffs, emigration and the demographics of Canadian patriotism may have been expressed more emphatically if we had recorded it this week.)Chapters00:00 Introduction01:51 Have you ever lived in the USA?02:54 How many Canadians move to the US every year?06:05 Understanding the wage gap: Canada vs. USA08:17 Yes Canada should be concerned about the gap 09:15 The productivity gap10:39 Is the cost of living a factor?12:50 The role of remote work13:35 Mike is a two handed economist 15:20 Sabrina is worried about losing talent to theUS17:25 Increasing productivity and future solutions 20:02 Addressing the Brain Drain and Future SolutionsLinks:Median wages and salaries lower in every Canadian province than in every U.S. stateIn 2005, There Were 41 Communities Where a Middle-Class Family Could Afford to Buy a Home. Today, There's Only NineCHIPS and Science ActHere's how Canadian tech salaries compare to the U.S.As a Canadian, you are earning far less than your American counterpartCanada is getting poorer when compared to its wealthy peers, data showsThe Economic Mistake the Left Is Finally ConfrontingHosted by Mike Moffatt & Cara Stern & Sabrina Maddeaux Produced by Meredith Martin This podcast is funded by the Neptis Foundation and brought to you by the Smart Prosperity Institute.

In this episode of The Missing Middle, hosts Sabrina Maddeaux and Michael Moffatt discuss the recent announcement of a high-speed rail project in Canada with transit expert Reece Martin. They explore the details of the proposed rail line, the political motivations behind it, and the challenges Canada faces in implementing effective transit solutions compared to other countries. The conversation highlights the need for a shift in approach to infrastructure projects, emphasizing the importance of political will, investment, and learning from international best practices.Chapters00:00 Introduction01:16 High-speed rail announcement outlined02:31Why doesn't the route go further south?04:20 Canada studies high-speed rail a lot06:49 Why is Europe so much better at rail?08:50 Comparing Canada's ability to build HSR to other countries11:13 Why is it so much more expensive to build in Canada?13:34 Reese becomes Canada's HSR Czar16:05 A vision for high-speed rail in Canada18:20 Examining the California rail debacle21:00 How do you convince drivers that rail is good for everyone?24:20 Reese's analysis of the Canada's political landscapeLinks:Reese Martin on the Missing MiddleHigh-speed rail line with 300 km/h trains will run between Toronto and Quebec City, Trudeau announcesHigh Speed Rail CanadaEglinton Crosstown will open no earlier than mid-2025, TTC chair saysCalifornia watchdog says high-speed rail on track to blow more deadlinesWhy Passenger Trains Suck in Canada - VIA RailNorth America Will Never Be the Netherlands - Interview with Not Just BikesGuest:Reece Martin https://reecemartin.ca/about/https://www.youtube.com/@RMTransitHosted by Mike Moffatt & Cara Stern & Sabrina Maddeaux Produced by Meredith Martin This podcast is funded by the Neptis Foundation and brought to you by the Smart Prosperity Institute.

In this conversation, conservative pundit Sabrina Maddeaux, economist Mike Moffatt and producer Meredith Martin discuss the Ontario election, focusing on predictions regarding Doug Ford's (potential) majority win and the lack of competition from opposition parties. They delve into the housing crisis, exploring why it hasn't resonated with voters and the barriers preventing Millennials from engaging in politics. The discussion highlights the impact of economic challenges on political participation and the need for addressing housing issues to foster broader political engagement.Chapters00:00 Introduction00:51 Ontario Election Predictions02:06 Why the housing crisis isn't resonating with voters05:23 Millennial political participation09:25 High rent as a barrier to political engagement 10:01 Political salaries aren't rising with inflation Hosted by Mike Moffatt & Cara Stern & Sabrina Maddeaux Produced by Meredith Martin This podcast is funded by the Neptis Foundation and brought to you by the Smart Prosperity Institute.

In this episode, Sabrina Maddeaux and Mike Moffatt discuss the federal Liberal leadership race, focusing on how the top contenders are addressing Canada's housing crisis. They analyze the candidates' policies, including Mark Carney's vague housing promises, Chrystia Freeland's tax cuts for first-time homebuyers, and Karina Gould's approach to generational change. The conversation highlights the candidates' proposals and the need for a vision that resonates with younger Canadians. They also provide advice for the candidates and make predictions about the outcome of the race. (This episode was recorded on Friday February 21st at 10am and later that day Ruby Dhalla was disqualified from the race.)Chapters00:00 Introduction01:59 The candidates 02:25 Housing has taken a back seat to Trump06:54 Platform analysis - Mark Carney10:21  Platform analysis - Chrystia Freeland19:48 Platform analysis - Karina Gould24:20 Where's the vision?27:00 Unaddressed issues in the leadership race28:59 Advice for Liberal leadership candidates30:34 Ranked ballot system - vote your ideals31:39 Predictions for the leadership race outcomeLinks:Mark Carney - Canada Not Interested in Trump's Offer & Liberal Leadership ProspectsBlueprint For More And Better HousingLike Poilievre, Freeland is pitching a housing plan that would limit immigrationEnding Homelessness and Building an Affordable FutureMark Carney to boost construction of new homesCandidatesHosted by Mike Moffatt & Cara Stern & Sabrina Maddeaux Produced by Meredith Martin This podcast is funded by the Neptis Foundation and brought to you by the Smart Prosperity Institute.

In this episode, Sabrina Maddeaux and Mike Moffatt discuss the complexities of development charges in Ontario, highlighting how municipalities have accumulated over $10 billion in unspent infrastructure funds. They explore the implications of these taxes on housing affordability, the political dynamics influencing their increase, and the growing public awareness of the housing crisis. Chapters:00:00 Introduction01:28 Understanding development charges02:10 The accumulation $10 Billion in unspent infrastructure funds04:28  Cities are sitting on huge piles of cash but it's totally above board06:30 The impact of development charges on housing affordability08:11 The economy doesn't care about your intent09:30 Mike gets in a fight with a city councillor over dev charges11:20 How a pile of cash improves bond ratings13:00 Public awareness and pressure for change15:00 Why Conservatives okay with such high D.C.s17:07 Shout out to Burlington, Vaughn and MississaugaLinks:Are Development Charges Fair to Millennials and Gen Z?Development Charges: 10 Things You Need to Know About Housing Taxes in OntarioResponse from the CBC on my Complaints to the OmbudsmanMore NeighboursHosted by Mike Moffatt & Cara Stern & Sabrina Maddeaux Produced by Meredith Martin This podcast is funded by the Neptis Foundation and brought to you by the Smart Prosperity Institute.

In this episode of the Missing Middle podcast, Sabrina Maddeaux and Mike Moffatt discuss the phenomenon of the 'relationship recession,' exploring its causes, implications for society, and the economic challenges it presents. They delve into how changing social dynamics, economic pressures, and technological advancements are reshaping relationships and family structures, particularly among younger generations. The conversation highlights the impact of these trends on the middle class and the need for policy solutions that address the root causes of declining relationship formation.Chapters:00:00 Introduction01:31 Understanding the relationship recession04:40 Scott Galloway's theory of men06:28 The role of technology09:05 How much of this is a choice?11:06 Incentives versus structural barriers13:09 Economic implications of relationship trends14:40 The role of unaffordable rents on relationships17:00 the expansion and retraction of personal choiceLinks:The relationship recession is going globalA Few(er) Good MenWhy Americans Suddenly Stopped Hanging OutLoneliness in CanadaHosted by Mike Moffatt & Cara Stern & Sabrina Maddeaux Produced by Meredith Martin This podcast is funded by the Neptis Foundation and brought to you by the Smart Prosperity Institute.

In this conversation, conservative pundit Sabrina Maddeaux and economist Mike Moffatt discuss the challenges and failures of Ontario's housing market, contrasting it with Alberta's more successful approach. They explore the vision of affordable housing presented by Premier Doug Ford, the current state of housing supply, and the political dynamics affecting housing policies. The discussion highlights the implications for millennials and Gen Z, who are increasingly considering moving to provinces like Alberta due to affordability issues. Ultimately, Sabrina and Mike each assign a letter grade to the Ontario government's performance in addressing the housing crisis. Spoiler alert: Ford gets F, but from which host? You'll have to watch to find out!  Chapters00:00 Introduction 01:06  Outlining a tangible vision of home ownership07:08 Single, detached family homes for under $500?08:28 Current state of housing supply10:49 Apartment units are the only bright light11:45 Alberta is doing it right14:22 Ontario's brain drain to Alberta15:08 Development charges, approval times and land use policy17:37 Housing has become politicised  19:43 The grade revealLinks:Housing Shortages Grow Fastest in Smaller Ontario MetrosDevelopment Charges have Helped Price Out the Middle ClassCanada needed to add 500,000 homes last year to keep up with population growth. It failed to hit even half of that.Hosted by Mike Moffatt & Cara Stern & Sabrina Maddeaux Produced by Meredith Martin This podcast is funded by the Neptis Foundation and brought to you by the Smart Prosperity Institute.

After the federal government capped the number of international students it let into Canada many colleges and universities saw a drastic decrease in enrollment. As a result colleges are slashing programs while universities struggle to balance their books. Why is this happening and who is responsible? Alex Usher, a sector expert and higher education consultant, joins Mike Moffatt and Sabrina Maddeaux in this week's episode of the Missing Middle podcast. They discuss the impact of international students on the housing crisis, the financial challenges faced by colleges and universities and the implications of recent policy changes particularly in trades programs and apprenticeships. Chapters00:00 Introduction 01:35 Summary higher education policy changes04:23 Decreasing rents in southern Ontario05:26 How Canada pays for Ontario's mismanagement06:36 The disproportionate impact on northern and rural colleges08:16 Are trades programs at risk?12:13 Why should we care about the college sector?14:21Universites have unique challenges 16:40 Why has the Ford government escaped security? 17:49 Feel richer now policies19:17 Higher education focused policy ideas18:47 Long-term solutions for higher education challengesLinksHow Colleges Broke Canadian ImmigrationCreditsGuest: Alex Usher https://higheredstrategy.com/about/alex-usher-7/https://x.com/alexusherhesa?lang=enhttps://bsky.app/profile/alexusherhesa.bsky.socialHosts: Sabrina Maddeaux https://x.com/SabrinaMaddeaux Mike Moffatt https://twitter.com/MikePMoffatt https://bsky.app/profile/mikepmoffatt.bsky.socialProducer: Meredith Martin https://twitter.com/meredithmartin https://bsky.app/profile/meredithmartin.bsky.social, https://www.linkedin.com/in/meredith-martin-21108165/This podcast is funded by the Neptis Foundation https://neptis.org/Brought to you by the Missing Middle Initiative https://www.missingmiddleinitiative.ca/Hosted by Mike Moffatt & Cara Stern & Sabrina Maddeaux Produced by Meredith Martin This podcast is funded by the Neptis Foundation and brought to you by the Smart Prosperity Institute.

Political pundit Sabrina Meadow and economist Mike Moffatt delve into the complexities of tariffs, particularly in the context of the impending policies under the new Donald Trump's administration. They explore what tariffs are, their implications for the middle class in both the US and Canada, and the public's understanding of these taxes. The conversation highlights the anxiety surrounding trade deficits and the potential economic fallout for consumers and businesses alike. Mike and Sabrina discuss how tariffs act as hidden taxes for consumers, the potential retaliatory measures Canada could take, and the political motivations behind the trade tensions. Chapters00:00 Introduction01:00 Understanding tariffs 03:07 Public perception and the impact of a tariff threat05:19 Does Canada really need the US more than it needs us?07:00 The American middle class will be hurt by tariffs08:03 Why are Canadian businesses so worried?10:18 The effects on the Canadian middle class11:06 Retaliation strategies and economic consequences13:01 Nobody wins a trade war15:19 Political theater vs. real economic threats18:24 The role of citizens in trade warsLinksMissing Middle InitiativeFiscal, Macroeconomic, and Price Estimates of Tariffs Under Both Non-Retaliation and Retaliation ScenariosTrump's Team of Economic Yes-MenAmericans stocking up on foreign goods before Trump tariffs: ‘a sense of urgency'Tariffs and trade: Experts pick the big charts to watch for 2025Hosted by Mike Moffatt & Cara Stern & Sabrina Maddeaux Produced by Meredith Martin This podcast is funded by the Neptis Foundation and brought to you by the Smart Prosperity Institute.

In this episode, Conservative pundit Sabrina Maddeaux and economist Mike Moffatt analyze Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's policy record. How well did his government do on supporting the middle class? Mike and Sabrina discuss both successes and failures across various policies. They delve into housing supply issues, immigration policies, child benefits, market competition, and the implications of NAFTA 2.0, providing a comprehensive overview of the Trudeau government's impact on the middle class in Canada.Chapters:00:00 Introduction analyzing Trudeau's legacy on the middle class00:58 Analyzing Trudeau's legacy on the middle class02:08 Housing supply: successes and failures04:57 Immigration policies and their impact08:41 Mike defends 30 year mortgages12:20 Child benefits and family support 14:30 Market competition and oligopoly issues17:05 NAFTA 2.0: navigating trade challengesLinks:How Corporate Consolidation is Ruining Everything: Discussion with Denise Hearn and Vass BednarA million more non-permanent residents live in Canada than official figures say, ministers toldLabour force participation rate hits 27-year low, outside the pandemicMortgage, identity fraud rise in Canada as economic pressures mount: EquifaxImmigration is making Canada's housing more expensive. The government was warned 2 years agoHosted by Mike Moffatt & Cara Stern & Sabrina Maddeaux Produced by Meredith Martin This podcast is funded by the Neptis Foundation and brought to you by the Smart Prosperity Institute.

Many of Canada's problems can be traced back to its tolerance of corporate consolidation, leading to higher prices and lower wages, say Denise Hearn and Vass Bednar, co-authors of the book “The Big Fix: How Companies Capture Markets and Harm Canadians”.The authors join economist Mike Moffatt and journalist Cara Stern to discuss the implications of corporate consolidation in Canada, exploring how it creates an illusion of competition, affects consumer prices, and contributes to wage stagnation. They delve into the role of monopolies and monopsonies, the financialization of companies, and the challenges of market access for new businesses. The discussion also highlights potential policy solutions to enhance competition and the importance of consumer awareness in navigating these complex issues.Links: Buy “The Big Fix” bookPrivate Equity Is Gutting America — and Getting Away With ItHow Private Funds Could Hurt Americans Under TrumpHosted by Mike Moffatt & Cara Stern & Sabrina Maddeaux Produced by Meredith Martin This podcast is funded by the Neptis Foundation and brought to you by the Smart Prosperity Institute.

In this special New Years Day episode of the Missing Middle Podcast, Mike Moffatt, Cara Stern and Meredith Martin respond to viewer questions which have been collected throughout the year. They explore the importance of community engagement, the potential for standardized building regulations, and the impact of transit on housing prices. The conversation also touches on the difficulties of panelized construction, the concept of granny flats, and the broader economic implications of housing dynamics. In this episode, the hosts discuss the evolving challenges of affordability in housing, the implications of land transfer taxes, and strategies for potential homebuyers in the current market. They also delve into the culture within the economics and journalism professions, highlighting the competitive and sometimes harsh interactions among economists. A special thanks to all who wrote to us with their questions and ideas throughout the year. The questions we addressed in this episode were edited for clarity and length. Happy New Year!Links:Real Ways Politicians Could Solve the Housing CrisisFour Pathways to Housing AffordabilityTegan and Sara: The Agony and Ecstasy of the Teen YearsHosted by Mike Moffatt & Cara Stern & Sabrina Maddeaux Produced by Meredith Martin This podcast is funded by the Neptis Foundation and brought to you by the Smart Prosperity Institute.

In this special holiday episode of the Missing Middle Podcast, hosts Cara Stern, Meredith Martin, and Mike Moffatt answer listener questions about the housing crisis, heritage protection, and community involvement. They discuss the balance between preserving historical homes and the urgent need for more housing, the current state of the housing market, and the implications of capital gains tax. The conversation emphasizes the importance of grassroots activism and the need for more young people in politics to address the affordability crisis in Canada.A special thanks to all who wrote to us with their questions and ideas throughout the year. The questions we addressed in this episode were edited for clarity and length. Links:Alex Bozikovic: Heritage Rules and the Housing CrisisIs Raising the Capital Gains Tax a Good Idea?Canada Has a Soft Corruption Problem - Eric Lombardi of More Neighbours TorontoMore NeighboursHosted by Mike Moffatt & Cara Stern & Sabrina Maddeaux Produced by Meredith Martin This podcast is funded by the Neptis Foundation and brought to you by the Smart Prosperity Institute.

Do you have a family dinner planned over the holidays where you expect to run into a family member who is out of touch with the economic head winds facing Millennials and Gen Z? We are here for you! This episode of the Missing Middle podcast focuses on the typical misconceptions older people have about today's economy. Mike Moffatt plays the role of Boomer Uncle Mike in this stunning breakout performance while Cara Stern and Sabrina Maddeaux deliver cold hard facts in a friendly and tenacious manner. You'll laugh, you'll cry, but most importantly you'll get mad and want to write to your elected representative and demand them to lower development changes and get more housing supply on the market so that everyone has the opportunity to join the middle class. Hosted by Mike Moffatt & Cara Stern & Sabrina Maddeaux Produced by Meredith Martin This podcast is funded by the Neptis Foundation and brought to you by the Smart Prosperity Institute.

The conversation explores the implications of the massive wealth transfer from baby boomers to millennials in Canada, discussing the potential for economic inequality, the concept of "invisible inheritances", and the changing dynamics of the middle class. It highlights the challenges faced by younger generations in accessing wealth and opportunities, and the resulting shifts in political views and social contracts.Links:Boomers' Inheritance Plans Up in the ‘Heir' The next wave of trickle-down wealth is upon us Younger Canadians Relying On "Great Wealth Transfer" To Achieve Financial Goals But Expectations May Not Match Reality: Vanguard StudyGuest Host: Sabrina Maddeaux Hosted by Mike Moffatt & Cara Stern Produced by Meredith Martin This podcast is funded by the Neptis Foundation and brought to you by the Smart Prosperity Institute.

Mike and Cara discuss the recent stimulus plans introduced by the Canadian and Ontario governments, which include rebate checks and a GST holiday. They explore the economic context behind these initiatives, the disconnect between economic indicators and the lived experiences of Canadians, particularly young people, and critique the effectiveness of these policies. The conversation highlights the need for sustainable solutions to address the underlying issues of inflation, housing, and the  intergenerational wealth transfer from the young to the old. Also, Cara gets really mad about the term “vibecession.”Hosted by Mike Moffatt & Cara Stern Produced by Meredith Martin This podcast is funded by the Neptis Foundation and brought to you by the Smart Prosperity Institute.

Ontario is by far the province with the biggest population, and is growing fast, but it's the second worst when it comes to building homes. In this conversation, journalist Cara Stern and economist Mike Moffatt discuss the severe housing crisis in Ontario, highlighting the province's poor performance in building new homes relative to its population growth. They analyze the types of homes being constructed, the impact of homelessness, and the responses from municipal leaders. The discussion also compares Ontario's housing policies with those of British Columbia and Quebec, emphasizing the wild increase of development charges and zoning regulations. Cara and Mike think a provincial election is imminent and that political accountability is needed. Ontario's home building record is dismal and the Ford government is ignoring its own housing promises. Links:Ontario Communities Falling Behind on HomebuildingOntario will build 1.5 million homes, housing minister promises as projections slumpHotdog meme - we're all trying to find the guy who did thisFour Pathways To Housing AffordabilityMass Timber Can Get Homes Built FasterHosted by Mike Moffatt & Cara Stern Produced by Meredith Martin This podcast is funded by the Neptis Foundation and brought to you by the Smart Prosperity Institute.

In this episode, Cara and Mike discuss the ongoing housing crisis and its political implications, emphasizing the need for effective solutions to enhance affordability. They unpack the four key pathways to housing affordability, including the integration of transportation costs, the impact of utility bills, and the challenges of homeowners insurance. The conversation highlights the importance of deregulation and innovative policies to create more affordable housing options while addressing the political landscape surrounding these issues.Links for further reading:Ontario Communities Falling Behind on HomebuildingBLUEPRINT FOR MORE AND BETTER HOUSINGAbacus DataExample of pyramid shaped condoHosted by Mike Moffatt & Cara Stern Produced by Meredith Martin This podcast is funded by the Neptis Foundation and brought to you by the Smart Prosperity Institute.

This conversation explores the potential of mass timber as a sustainable building material, its role in the housing construction sector, and the skills needed for young people to thrive in this emerging industry. The discussion highlights the growth of mass timber, the educational requirements for entering the field, the challenges faced in its adoption, and the broader opportunities in decarbonizing industries.Links:Canada's Green Skills TransitionGuest: Nicholas Renzetti Hosted by Mike Moffatt & Cara Stern Produced by Meredith Martin This podcast is funded by the Neptis Foundation and brought to you by the Smart Prosperity Institute.

It doesn't matter how many times politicians say the economy is doing great. If someone can't afford a home, they're not going to believe you.Cara and Mike discuss the significant impact of the housing crisis on Donald Trump's election victory, exploring how inflation and economic concerns shifted political views. They analyze migration patterns affecting electoral college votes and suggest that building more homes could help retain political power in progressive cities.Links:America Hires a StrongmanThe Inflation Factor: It Wasn't Just the Economy How inflation and economic concerns drove voter sentiment. Pocketbook and Sociotropic Economic Voting: How Does Inflation Affect Voting Decisions?Hosted by Mike Moffatt & Cara Stern Produced by Meredith Martin This podcast is funded by the Neptis Foundation and brought to you by the Smart Prosperity Institute.

Many cities in North America have been adding bike lanes in the past few years, especially as demand for outdoor activities spiked during the pandemic. Those lanes have been crucial at keeping cyclists safe, but seeing the road lose a lane has upset drivers, especially those who rely on their cars. Enter Doug Ford, in Ontario. The premier has introduced legislation that will require municipalities to obtain approval from the province for new bike lanes, as well as removing bike lanes that are already there – even ones that just finally finished construction. Mike and Cara discuss why this is such a popular idea, even though it won't solve Toronto's real congestion issues. They highlight the need for effective solutions to traffic congestion and the role of government in addressing these challenges, while also considering the future of bike lanes and the importance of public advocacy.Links: Bloor Street West Bike Lane Pilot Project EvaluationBloor Street West Complete Street ExtensionThe left is losing the battle for the bike — as it should | National Post Breaking the Bottlenecks : Congestion Solutions for Canada Hosted by Mike Moffatt & Cara Stern Produced by Meredith Martin This podcast is funded by the Neptis Foundation and brought to you by the Smart Prosperity Institute.

Over and over again, we see the same problems come up when building anything physical in this country, such as a house or a train. Costs start to balloon and every project seems to end up over budget – or at least costs us more than it would cost to build in other countries.More Neighbours Toronto's founder Eric Lombardi attributes this largely to a system of soft corruption.In this conversation, he highlights how convoluted processes and lack of transparency lead to inflated costs and diminished outcomes. He compares Canada's approach to infrastructure with that of European countries, emphasizing the need for standardization and in-house expertise. Lombardi proposes solutions to improve procurement processes and accountability, advocating for a more efficient and transparent system that prioritizes taxpayer value.Links:Canada can no longer afford to ignore its ‘soft corruption' problemhttps://thehub.ca/2024/10/03/eric-lombardi-canada-can-no-longer-afford-to-ignore-its-soft-corruption-problem/Altus Grouphttps://www.altusgroup.com/https://www.bildgta.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/2024-GTA-Municipal-Benchmarking-Study-Our-number-7147-Final.pdfMore NeighboursGuest: Eric Lombardi, https://x.com/EricDLombardiHosted by Mike Moffatt & Cara Stern Produced by Meredith Martin This podcast is funded by the Neptis Foundation and brought to you by the Smart Prosperity Institute.

A lot of people get into advocacy for better cities and urbanism by watching what's perhaps YouTube's biggest urbanism channel,  @NotJustBikes . But that leads many to think that with enough advocacy, their hometowns could one day also look like a city in the Netherlands. Not Just Bikes' Jason Slaughter says it's not that simple.In this conversation, journalist Cara Stern and economist Mike Moffatt talk to Jason about what North American cities can learn from the Netherlands. They explore the principles of Dutch urban design, the importance of context in urban planning, and the need for holistic approaches that go beyond just implementing bike lanes. Links:Why Canadians Can't Bike in the Winter (but Finnish people can):https://youtu.be/Uhx-26GfCBU?si=uB-fSJYD0ouxDHivStrong Towns:https://www.strongtowns.org/Guest: Jason Slaughter, Not Just Bikes https://www.youtube.com/c/notjustbikesHosted by Mike Moffatt & Cara Stern Produced by Meredith Martin This podcast is funded by the Neptis Foundation and brought to you by the Smart Prosperity Institute.

In this episode of the Missing Middle, Cara Stern is mad. A majority of MPs recently voted to increase Old Age Security for seniors aged 65-74, regardless of whether they actually need more money.She and Mike Moffatt explore the structure of Canada's pension programs, the purpose of OAS, and the financial burden it places on the federal budget – and younger workers, many of whom are struggling to pay their housing bills.They cover the disparities in income among seniors, the challenges of targeting benefits, and the political dynamics surrounding OAS proposals.Also, we need a co-host to fill in while Cara is on mat leave! If you're interested, send us a resume with one-minute video of why you'd be good for this role to missingmiddlepodcast@gmail.com  Links:Canadian Museum of HistoryOld Age Security pension recovery taxDisaggregated trends in poverty from the 2021 Census of PopulationJennifer Robson https://carleton.ca/politicalmanagement/people/jennifer-robson/Shooting a fly with an elephant gun: The Bloc's ultimatum on seniors' benefitsMost Canadians support or somewhat support extending Old Age Security benefits increase to seniors 65 to 74.Hosted by Mike Moffatt & Cara Stern Produced by Meredith Martin This podcast is funded by the Neptis Foundation and brought to you by the Smart Prosperity Institute.

In this episode of Missing Middle, journalist Cara Stern is mad. A street in her neighbourhood in Toronto is trying to get an exemption to the city-wide garden suites rules. Cara and economist Mike Moffatt discuss the ongoing challenges of NIMBYism in Toronto, still supported by local city councillors, even when it's about the gentlest of gentle density.Links:How garden suites are dividing these Toronto neighbours (thestar.com)East-end residents worry they may lose garden suite zoning | CBC NewsCraven Road I – Leslieville Historical Society (leslievillehistory.com)Latest update from the CityCraven Road MapIf you want to let Toronto City council know you support more housing and that garden suites everywhere are part of that you can email:City Planner Alexa Legge:alexa.legge@toronto.caWard 14 City Councillor, Paula Fletcher:councillor_fletcher@toronto.caMayor Olivia Chow:mayor_chow@toronto.caHosted by Mike Moffatt & Cara Stern Produced by Meredith Martin This podcast is funded by the Neptis Foundation and brought to you by the Smart Prosperity Institute.

When Mike bought his first home, it cost him $168,000. That number barely covers a downpayment in much of Ontario these days – and even if a developer wanted to, it could not offer that price (even indexed to inflation) because the costs to build are just so high.Mike and Cara break down the costs associated with home-building, including land prices, development charges, construction costs, and taxes, while also examining the impact of these factors on housing affordability. Links:Eric LombardiGreater Toronto Area Municipal Benchmarking StudyHosted by Mike Moffatt & Cara Stern Produced by Meredith Martin This podcast is funded by the Neptis Foundation and brought to you by the Smart Prosperity Institute.

 @NotJustBikes is many people's gateway into urbanism, and an understanding into how much better our cities and towns can be, if we just make some policy changes.In this conversation, journalist Cara Stern, economist Mike Moffatt, Not Just Bikes creator Jason Slaughter discuss the challenges and implications of car-dependent suburbs in North America. They explore personal experiences, historical context, and the impact of legislation on urban design. The discussion also delves into economic factors influencing suburban living, the potential for transformation, and cultural attitudes towards housing.Links:Not Just Bikeshttps://www.youtube.com/c/notjustbikesSuburbs that don't suck:Suburbs that don't Suck - Streetcar Suburbs (Riverdale, Toronto) (youtube.com)Wortley Villagehttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wortley_VillageStrong Towns:https://www.strongtowns.org/The Sprawl Repair Manual https://sprawlrepair.com/home/Hosted by Mike Moffatt & Cara Stern Produced by Meredith Martin This podcast is funded by the Neptis Foundation and brought to you by the Smart Prosperity Institute.

The conversation explores the impact of the AI revolution on workers and the potential for mass unemployment. The hosts discuss past technological revolutions and the winners and losers they created. They also consider the role of AI in job creation and the potential for increased inequality. The conversation touches on the importance of skills and creativity in navigating the changing job market.Links:Vass Bednar @regstorichesDavid Bowie predicted in 1999 the impact of the Internet in BBCDilbert Blog: Career AdviceHosted by Mike Moffatt & Cara Stern Produced by Meredith Martin This podcast is funded by the Neptis Foundation and brought to you by the Smart Prosperity Institute.

This week, the federal government announced some big changes to mortgage policies in Canada. Specifically, it's expanding 30-year mortgage amortizations to anyone buying a new build, or to all first-time homebuyers. It's also raising the insured mortgage cap from $1 million to $1.5 million.In this conversation journalist Cara Stern and economist Mike Moffatt discuss the changes and the implications for first-time homebuyers, investors, and the overall housing market, while also addressing concerns about increased debt and the long-term effects on housing prices. Links:Insurable versus Uninsured MortgagesHosted by Mike Moffatt & Cara Stern Produced by Meredith Martin This podcast is funded by the Neptis Foundation and brought to you by the Smart Prosperity Institute.

Rents are down in some college towns, and some are crediting the government's international student reforms. In news stories about rents falling, the media often frame price reductions as a bad thing, even though it's a huge relief for students. Mike and Cara discuss the price drops and why the media tend to ignore the positive side of the story.Hosted by Mike Moffatt & Cara Stern Produced by Meredith Martin This podcast is funded by the Neptis Foundation and brought to you by the Smart Prosperity Institute.

Economist Mike Moffatt and journalist Cara Stern discuss Canada's record levels of population growth -- and how the majority of it came from record levels of temporary immigration.Since these numbers became known, due to backlash from the public, the federal government has announced it would implement policies it hopes will reduce the number of non-permanent residents, particularly international students, through attrition. The increase in population growth has put pressure on housing, healthcare, and education. International students often face exploitation and are blamed for various issues. The rental market has been heavily impacted, but it remains to be seen if there will be a decrease in prices. The lack of affordable housing options limits opportunities for students to live near their universities.Hosted by Mike Moffatt & Cara Stern Produced by Meredith Martin This podcast is funded by the Neptis Foundation and brought to you by the Smart Prosperity Institute.

Cities across Canada are implementing vacant home taxes to address the issue of homes sitting empty. These taxes aim to encourage owners to sell or rent out their vacant properties. Economist Mike Moffatt and journalist Cara Stern discuss the challenges in implementation of these taxes including issues with reporting and enforcement. Studies have shown that these taxes have had a small but positive impact in getting homes back on the market, without slowing down housing construction. Hosted by Mike Moffatt & Cara Stern Produced by Meredith Martin This podcast is funded by the Neptis Foundation and brought to you by the Smart Prosperity Institute.

On May 23, professionals who work in the industry to develop missing middle housing, as well as those interested in building them, gathered at the Toronto Reference Library for a one-day conference.The Missing Middle podcast team spoke to the presenters and will be sharing those interviews with you each week on Fridays throughout the next month.Ryan Valente is a project manager for Highcroft Homes, where he works on custom home development in Toronto. He talks about what it's like building in Toronto these days, and what still needs to change.Links:Highcroft Homes https://www.highcrofthomes.ca/Producers: Cara Stern https://twitter.com/carasternMeredith Martin https://twitter.com/meredithmartinRuth TecleTechnical production by Mike Greene https://www.instagram.com/mikegreenemedia/Hosted by Mike Moffatt & Cara Stern Produced by Meredith Martin This podcast is funded by the Neptis Foundation and brought to you by the Smart Prosperity Institute.

In this conversation, Cara and Mike discuss the financial considerations of having children. They touch on topics such as housing costs, childcare expenses, and the impact on income during parental leave. They also explore the limitations of the government's childcare program and the need for increased availability of affordable childcare options. The conversation highlights the challenges faced by younger generations in affording housing and starting a family, and the potential consequences of these challenges on population growth and societal cohesion.Hosted by Mike Moffatt & Cara Stern Produced by Meredith Martin This podcast is funded by the Neptis Foundation and brought to you by the Smart Prosperity Institute.

On May 23, professionals who work in the industry to develop missing middle housing, as well as those interested in building them, gathered at the Toronto Reference Library for a one-day conference.The Missing Middle podcast team spoke to the presenters and will be sharing those interviews with you each week on Fridays throughout this month.Naama Blonder is an architect and urban planner with Smart Density, which she co-founded. She spoke to us on the day Toronto City Council was about to approve an expansion to what's allowed to be built on its major streets -- which previously had been much more limited than you'd think!Links:Smart Density https://smartdensity.com/Naama Blonder https://x.com/naama_blonderProducers: Cara Stern https://twitter.com/carasternMeredith Martin https://twitter.com/meredithmartinRuth TecleTechnical production by Mike Greene https://www.instagram.com/mikegreenemedia/Hosted by Mike Moffatt & Cara Stern Produced by Meredith Martin This podcast is funded by the Neptis Foundation and brought to you by the Smart Prosperity Institute.

There's been a lot of news lately about the low-wage stream of the temporary foreign worker program -- but the high-wage stream has similar problems.In this episode, Cara and Mike explore the types of jobs that are being filled through this stream, and whether the wages offered are truly competitive. They worry about the impact of bringing in foreign tech workers on the wages and opportunities for domestic tech workers, many of who end up leaving Canada in pursuit of better opportunities. They suggest reforms to the program, such as making it harder to prove a shortage of local workers and increasing wage transparency.Links:Reddit thread: "I made a map of every employer who had a LMIA accepted because they couldn't find Canadian workers (2023-Present)"https://www.reddit.com/r/torontoJobs/comments/1ehrmuw/i_made_a_map_of_every_employer_who_had_a_lmia/?rdt=62928Link to gov data:https://open.canada.ca/data/en/dataset/90fed587-1364-4f33-a9ee-208181dc0b97Hosted by Mike Moffatt & Cara Stern Produced by Meredith Martin This podcast is funded by the Neptis Foundation and brought to you by the Smart Prosperity Institute.

On May 23, professionals who work in the industry to develop missing middle housing, as well as those interested in building them, gathered at the Toronto Reference Library for a one-day conference.The Missing Middle podcast team spoke to the presenters and will be sharing those interviews with you each week on Fridays throughout the next month.Blair Scorgie is a planner and urban designer, as well as an instructor at Toronto Metropolitan University. He talks about Toronto's newest multiplex bylaws, and what it could mean for building affordable, missing middle housing.Chapters:00:00 Introducing Blair Scorgie02:29 Creating a New Market for Development04:08 The Need for Incentives for Affordable Housing05:35 Recommendations for Further Changes to the BylawsLinks:https://x.com/BlairScorgieProducers: Cara Stern https://twitter.com/carasternMeredith Martin https://twitter.com/meredithmartinRuth TecleTechnical production by Mike Greene https://www.instagram.com/mikegreenemedia/Hosted by Mike Moffatt & Cara Stern Produced by Meredith Martin This podcast is funded by the Neptis Foundation and brought to you by the Smart Prosperity Institute.

Canada has seen a significant increase in the number of low-wage temporary foreign workers, raising concerns about the impact on the job market. The low-wage stream of temporary foreign workers is tied to specific employers and is measured relative to the provincial median wage. The government made changes to the program in 2022, allowing more temporary foreign workers and weakening the rules around their hiring. This has led to questions about whether the government is intentionally suppressing wages and making it easier for corporations to function with low wages. Mike and Cara discuss the effects of this program on Canadian residents, and what reforms are needed to make it fairer to workers.Hosted by Mike Moffatt & Cara Stern Produced by Meredith Martin This podcast is funded by the Neptis Foundation and brought to you by the Smart Prosperity Institute.

On May 23, professionals who work in the industry to develop missing middle housing, as well as those interested in building them, gathered at the Toronto Reference Library for a one-day conference.The Missing Middle podcast team spoke to the presenters and will be sharing those interviews with you each week on Fridays throughout the month.Max Goyzman works for Peakhill Capital, which provides financing for commercial real estate projects -- mostly apartment buildings. He discusses how financing works, and some of the challenges with lending money for missing middle project.Links:Peakhill Capital https://www.peakhillcapital.com/Producers: Cara Stern https://twitter.com/carasternMeredith Martin https://twitter.com/meredithmartinRuth TecleTechnical production by Mike Greene https://www.instagram.com/mikegreenemedia/Hosted by Mike Moffatt & Cara Stern Produced by Meredith Martin This podcast is funded by the Neptis Foundation and brought to you by the Smart Prosperity Institute.