Podcasts about affordability

Today, Colorado Sun business reporter Tamara Chuang looks at the latest inflation numbers in Colorado and the rippled down effect on affordability in a state that’s already one of the most expensive to live in. https://coloradosun.com/2026/06/10/denver-area-inflation-increases-5-percent-2026/ https://coloradosun.com/2026/06/13/inflation-affordability-denver-colorado-gas-prices/ https://www.federalreserve.gov/releases/z1/dataviz/dfa/distribute/table/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Your favorite Blerds are back bringing you all of their thoughts on everything happening in nerd culture. This week, Shannon, Jaja and James are discussing the Xbox showcase and the most recent Nintendo Direct where a very surprising announcement was made. We're also talking about the impact of Streaming on RPG's. Is it hurting the genre? Plus other nerd news. Make sure to subscribe to us on Youtube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or your podcast app of choice.   Chapters 00:00-Celebrating the Knicks Championship Win 02:44- Weekly Nerdy Things  05:27-Showcase Highlights and Anticipated Games 08:16-Nintendo Direct Highlights  11:04-Kingdom Hearts 4 and Its Controversies 23:12-Upcoming Game Releases and DLCs 24:38-Xbox Showcase Highlights  28:51-September Game Releases and Competition 32:37-The Future of RPGs and Streaming Impact 37:02-The Evolution of Story-Driven Games 46:38-Next-Gen Console Release Speculations 49:26-Affordability and Economic Concerns in Gaming 53:03-The Role of Exclusives in Console Sales 56:13-Xbox's Business Strategy and Potential Layoffs 59:09-Warner Bros Sale to Paramount and Industry Implications 01:02:18-Exciting Anime Releases and Nostalgia   Follow Us!  https://linktr.ee/blerdsnerds National Resources List https://linktr.ee/NationalResourcesList Youtube  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCK56I-TNUnhKhcWLZxoUTaw Email us: Blerdsnerds@gmail.com Follow Our Social: https://www.instagram.com/blerdsnerds/ https://twitter.com/BlerdsNerds https://www.facebook.com/blerdsnerds https://tiktok.com/blerdsnerds_pod Shannon: https://www.instagram.com/luv_shenanigans James: https://www.instagram.com/llsuavej  Jaja: https://www.instagram.com/jajasmith3 

In this episode of the Used Car Dealer Podcast, Zach sits down with Jeff Martin, CEO of the National Independent Automobile Dealers Association (NIADA), to preview the upcoming NIADA Convention & Expo in Denver and discuss the biggest issues facing independent dealers today. Jeff shares what makes this year's Denver event unique, from NIADA's education-focused breakout sessions and networking opportunities to a closing general session covering the China wave, TikTok, and how dealers can connect with the next generation of buyers. He also explains why affordability, inventory, and FTC advertising-price expectations are among the most urgent topics dealers are asking NIADA to address. The conversation also covers wholesale trends, incoming EV supply from rental and lease channels, how dealers are adapting to high interest rates, and why liquidity matters more than ever. Jeff also shares his perspective on AI adoption, the misconception that AI is simply coming to take jobs, and why education is the biggest opportunity for independent dealers right now. Zach and Jeff also discuss NIADA's advocacy work around right to repair, universal title, compliance support, government relations, and the association's evolving role through boot camps, webinars, state association partnerships, and the return of the Certified Master Dealer Program. Jeff closes with why he remains optimistic about the resilience of independent dealers and how members can get more involved with NIADA.

Wisconsin Democrats held their annual convention over the weekend and affordability was front and center. U.S. Senate Republicans amended a wildfire bill that would impact national forest land, including in Wisconsin. And, We Energies and a pair of data center developers are asking state regulators to loosen financial rules intended to protect local ratepayers.

Affordability remains one of the biggest concerns for American families. Inflation has cooled, but prices are still too high because bad policy keeps raising costs and limiting choices.In this episode of This Week's Economy, we discuss the latest jobs report, government spending, Washington's growing role in private business, credit-card debt, and why antitrust policy should protect consumers instead of becoming a political weapon.The bottom line: affordability improves when competition, entrepreneurship, innovation, and sound policy are allowed to work.Find show notes and more at https://vanceginn.com.

This week on TrendsTalk, ITR Economist and Speaker Taylor St. Germain breaks down the latest housing market data and explains why housing activity remains under pressure despite signs that the decline is beginning to stabilize. With affordability challenges, elevated mortgage rates, and existing home sales hovering near levels seen during the 2008-09 financial crisis, what does the outlook hold for builders, suppliers, and businesses tied to housing? Will improving trends in 2026 be enough to spark a meaningful recovery, or is the housing market facing a longer road ahead?

Lev Mandel shares his concerns over financial choices.

John talks with Caroline Shinkle, Republican candidate for New York's 12th Congressional District, about her vision for representing Manhattan in Congress. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

John talks with New York State Senator George Borrello about the lack of transparency and accountability during the chaotic final days of the legislative session in New York. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ottawa invests $3.2 billion towards food production and affordability (0:57) Lenore Newman, Director of the Food and Agriculture Institute, University of the Fraser Valley Inside The House (16:27) Keith Baldrey, Global B.C. Legislative Bureau Chief Our Energy Future: Building another pipeline in B.C.'s tidewater (31:47) Gary Mar, CEO of the Canada West Foundation Should parents be accountable for youth e-scooter injuries? (47:32) Mahyar Saeedi, founder of Vancouver ESK8, the official Personal Electric Vehicle community of Vancouver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Morgan Kendrick, EVP and President, Commercial Health Benefits, Elevance Health, discusses the rising cost pressures facing employers and explores how balanced funding, self-funding, and multiple employer welfare arrangements can help improve affordability while simplifying healthcare benefits for businesses and their employees.

You know that voice that tells you to "stand clear of the closing doors" when you take the train? That's Bernie Wagenblast. Bernie has been the voice of the New York City subway since 2009, and this month she's one of four grand marshals at NYC Pride. She joins us to talk about growing up knowing she was trans, and what it took to finally live that truth decades later. Photo: Courtesy of Bernie Wagenblast -Got any questions, comments or story ideas? Send us a message at NYCNow@WNYC.org Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Accessibility in herbalism is not something extra or something nice-if-possible, it's a critical part of our work. The prices of the remedies we recommend can sometimes be a determining factor in whether our clients take them, or take them long enough to get results. In many cases we can identify less expensive herbs, or formulae of herbs, which can do the job of more costly ones. In order to make an effective substitution, we first need to clarify the qualities, actions, affinities, and other aspects of the herb for which we seek alternatives. Only then can we identify a good substitute.This episode includes thoughts and examples of potential substitutes for solomon's seal (Polygonatum biflorum), kava (Piper methysticum), Asian ginseng (Panax ginseng), dong quai (Angelica sinensis), teasel (Dipsacus fullonum), arnica (Arnica montana), chaga (Inonotus obliquus), goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis), and schisandra (Schisandra chinensis).This is material we dig into deeply in our Accessible Herbalism course. That course is full of strategies and skills which enable herbalists to offer top-quality care to people who have constraints on their finances, time, energy, or community of support. It helps you understand the truth behind some of hte most common money-saving suggestions about herbalism and nutrition, so you can offer realistic suggestions which actually help people who need it most.Like everything we offer, it's a self-paced online video course. It comes with lifetime access to current & future course material, the twice-weekly live Q&A sessions with us, open discussion threads integrated in each lesson, an active student community, study guides, quizzes & capstone assignments, and more!If you enjoyed the episode, it helps us a lot if you subscribe, rate, & review our podcast wherever you listen. This helps others find us more easily. Thank you!Our theme music is “Wings” by Nicolai Heidlas.Support the showYou can find all of our online herbalism courses at online.commonwealthherbs.com!

Throughout this season, we've learned about the threats and harms data centers pose to local communities. But is there a better way to build this tech infrastructure? On this episode, Danny invites energy, broadband, and local business experts to discuss how we can build and regulate data centers in ways that keep agency within local communities. From BYONCE (Bring Your Own New Clean Energy) to transparency, and from antitrust action to community-scaled, locally owned data centers, this episode breaks down all the ways we can create a better future — one where local communities have control over what happens next. In this episode, we hear from:Stacy Mitchell: Writer, strategist, policy advocate, co-executive director of the Institute for Local Self-Reliance, with a focus on the importance of small, independent businesses.Chris Mitchell: Program director at the Institute for Local Self-Reliance, who is a leading national expert on community networks, Internet access, and local broadband policies, and host of the Unbuffered podcast.John Farrell: Co-executive director of the Institute for Local Self-Reliance and leads the organization's work on energy systems, including duties as host of the Local Energy Rules podcast.Resources:Institute for Local Self-Reliance - The Policies Communities Need to Confront the AI Data Center RaceGood Jobs First - Shutting Down Data Center SubsidiesSteph Speirs on TikTok - Solving the AI Power Problem AI Now Policy Institute - North Star Data Center Policy Toolkit

Dominick Pallone, executive director at the Michigan Association of Health Plans, joins us on today's episode of Rural Health Today. Health plans are an essential component to healthcare affordability and accessibility in the United States, but the cost of premiums continues to climb. Dominick is here to provide insights in healthcare affordability in Michigan. We'll talk about upcoming legislation, payer-hospital negotiations, and of course, what it all has to do with rural health.  Follow Rural Health Today on social media! https://x.com/RuralHealthPod https://www.youtube.com/@ruralhealthtoday7665  Follow Hillsdale Hospital on social media! https://www.facebook.com/hillsdalehospital/ https://www.twitter.com/hillsdalehosp/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/hillsdale-community-health-center/ https://www.instagram.com/hillsdalehospital/  Follow our guest! https://www.linkedin.com/in/dominick-pallone-200b3269/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/mahp/ https://www.facebook.com/MichiganAssociationofHealthPlans

In this episode, Morgan Kendrick, EVP and President, Commercial Health Benefits, Elevance Health, discusses the rising cost pressures facing employers and explores how balanced funding, self-funding, and multiple employer welfare arrangements can help improve affordability while simplifying healthcare benefits for businesses and their employees.

This episode is sponsored by…NCH:Set up an LLC to protect your investments! – https://nchinc.com/rtrBLUPRINT HOME LOANS:Get pre-approved with one of RTR's preferred lenders at https://bluprinthomeloans.com/renttoretirement/ Alabama new construction is getting serious attention from real estate investors — and in this episode of the Rent To Retirement Podcast, Matthew Seyoum is joined by Frank Merry to break down why.Frank shares what makes Alabama attractive for out-of-state investors, including lower property taxes, landlord-friendly laws, affordable new construction, strong rental demand, and major employment drivers across markets like Birmingham, Huntsville, Kimberly, Tuscaloosa, and Columbiana.

Heavy metals, toxic burden, and nervous system dysfunction may be driving symptoms that standard testing never fully explains. Kyle Hulbert joins me to discuss the therapies his clinics use most often for people dealing with chronic fatigue, Long COVID, Lyme disease, brain fog, and other complex chronic conditions. We talk about his recovery from chronic mercury toxicity, why heavy metals remain a major focus in his work, and how EBOO, chelation, Procaine IVs, and stellate ganglion blockade fit into a root-cause approach. We also discuss treatment timelines, affordability, and why mindset can influence recovery alongside physical therapies. In this episode, you'll learn: How chronic mercury toxicity contributed to Kyle's own health collapse and recovery Why EBOO and chelation are the most commonly prescribed therapies at his clinics What EBOO is and how it is designed to support detoxification, oxygenation, and immune regulation How stellate ganglion blockade and Procaine IVs are used to calm an overactive fight-or-flight response How treatment plans are personalized based on toxic burden, infections, and other root causes Guest: Kyle Hulbert is the CEO and co-founder of Longevity Centers of America, a researcher, doctoral candidate, wellness expert, and co-host of the Longevity Unlocked podcast. Discover your fatigue score and the root causes keeping you stuck: https://myfatiguescore.com Free Fatigue Masterclass: https://fixyourfatigue.com See real results: https://energymdmethod.com/results Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction 01:24 - Kyle's Health Story 04:50 - Mercury Toxicity Discovery 06:45 - Building Longevity Centers 07:13 - Therapies Used in Practice 27:42 - EBOO and Chelation Explained 36:17 - Cost and Treatment Timelines 38:14 - Stellate Ganglion Blockade 41:07 - Procaine IVs for Nervous System Support 42:58 - Tracking Outcomes and Lyme Cases 49:42 - Affordability and Mission 50:07 - Mindset and Recovery Success Connect with Kyle Hulbert and his team: Longevity Unlocked Podcast: https://linktr.ee/longevityunlockedpodcast Subscribe to the EnergyMD Podcast for weekly conversations with leading experts on resolving ME/CFS and Long COVID by addressing the real root causes. . For more information about Evan and his program, Click Here.  Prefer to watch on Youtube? Click Here.  Please note that any information in this episode is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.

Inner City Press asked Brad Lander, Congressional candidate, about FISA & the DNI. He pivoted from ICE hearings in Minneapolis to affordability (also declined to make endorsements in any other Cong primaries, eg, Adriano Espaillat, Antonio Reynoso v his teammates

This episode is sponsored by…NCH:Set up an LLC to protect your investments! – https://nchinc.com/rtrBLUPRINT HOME LOANS:Get pre-approved with one of RTR's preferred lenders at https://bluprinthomeloans.com/renttoretirement/ Alabama new construction is getting serious attention from real estate investors — and in this episode of the Rent To Retirement Podcast, Matthew Seyoum is joined by Frank Merry to break down why.Frank shares what makes Alabama attractive for out-of-state investors, including lower property taxes, landlord-friendly laws, affordable new construction, strong rental demand, and major employment drivers across markets like Birmingham, Huntsville, Kimberly, Tuscaloosa, and Columbiana.

Ryan talks to United Way Suncoast CEO Kourtney Sanchez about a new ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) report showing the rising cost of living across Florida. The discussion focuses on how some families in Pinellas and Sarasota counties now need more than $100,000 annually to cover basic household expenses, the financial strain facing working families, and the broader affordability challenges impacting communities throughout the region.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Associated Press forecasts L.A. city councilmember Nithya Raman will run against incumbent L.A. Mayor Karen Bass. California's top lawyer announces a campaign against high prices. A state bill has advanced aiming to get more students out in nature. Plus, more from Evening Edition. Support The L.A. Report by donating at LAist.com/join and by visiting https://laist.comSupport the show: https://laist.com

This episode was livestreamed on June 7, 2026.

We often hear how much easier life is in Australia, but there's a warning that it might not be the case for renters for much longer. A new report shows rental affordability increasing in most parts of New Zealand. Money correspondent Susan Edmunds spoke to Ingrid Hipkiss.

In this episode, we capture authentic perspectives from conference attendees on the challenges of health care affordability and its wide-reaching impact across Michigan. Business leaders, policymakers, and small business owners share how affordability issues affect their daily lives and decision-making. Stakeholders agree that collaborative solutions are needed to address these challenges, with many recognizing the importance of partnership across sectors. The episode also highlights how Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan is actively engaged in both leading and participating in efforts to find and implement meaningful solutions for a more affordable health care system.Guests:Ryan MaibachLina Hourani-HarajliCarla Walker- MillerRick BakerDr. Bernard CostelloEmily Gerkin GuerrantKurt BrauerJamie Westrick

In this episode, I chat with Shana Watkins from the Tennessee Justice Center about their upcoming HealthCare Afforability Summit, which will be taking place in: Knoxville on June 10, 2026Nashville on June 17, 2026Memphis on June 24, 2026Timeline of the Conversation01:30 What is the Tennessee Justice Center (TJC)?03:00 What's in a name? Tenncare is Medicaid! 07:00  Harms of H.R.1 (Big Beautiful Bill) on Healthcare, specifically Medicaid, and implications for Tennesseans.08:28  The “Unwelcome Mat” Effect11:00 TJC - Anti-Hunger Program - “Fight for Summer EBT”17:30 Advocacy in Action- Regional HealthCare Summits June 202622:36 We need to hear about your healthcare experiences in Tennessee. 24:20 Radical Inclusion - We need your voice, we need everyone's voice!

Plus: can Albertans actually be dual citizens if the province separates from Canada, Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy has requested a face-to-face with Russian leader Vladimir Putin, the Ontario government is going after illegal ticket resellers again, and could B.C. see its first Conservative premier in a century? We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us: Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca  Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky

The U.S. doesn’t just have an inflation problem—it has an affordability problem. Prices rose quickly, but wages haven’t fully caught up. Housing, child care, and essentials are the biggest drivers. Even with a “strong economy,” many people feel financially stuck. Callers check in with their experiences. Please Like, Comment and Follow 'Philip Teresi on KMJ' on all platforms: --- Philip Teresi on KMJ is available on the KMJNOW app, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube or wherever else you listen to podcasts. -- Philip Teresi on KMJ Weekdays 2-6 PM Pacific on News/Talk 580 AM & 105.9 FM KMJ | Website | Facebook | Instagram | X | Podcast | Amazon | - Everything KMJ KMJNOW App | Podcasts | Facebook | X | Instagram See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The U.S. doesn’t just have an inflation problem—it has an affordability problem. Prices rose quickly, but wages haven’t fully caught up. Housing, child care, and essentials are the biggest drivers. Even with a “strong economy,” many people feel financially stuck. Callers check in with their experiences. Please Like, Comment and Follow 'Philip Teresi on KMJ' on all platforms: --- Philip Teresi on KMJ is available on the KMJNOW app, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube or wherever else you listen to podcasts. -- Philip Teresi on KMJ Weekdays 2-6 PM Pacific on News/Talk 580 AM & 105.9 FM KMJ | Website | Facebook | Instagram | X | Podcast | Amazon | - Everything KMJ KMJNOW App | Podcasts | Facebook | X | Instagram See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Arizona Monthly Market Housing UpdateIf you only followed the headlines, you would think Phoenix AZ real estate was falling apart.​​Record inventory.Market crash warnings.Affordability doom (how can it be both?).Buyer panic.​​The problem?The actual local data tells a very different story.​​In this episode, we break down the numbers behind the headlines, expose where local media is getting it wrong, and explain what is REALLY happening in the Phoenix AZ market right now.​​We also cover:• Why "record high inventory" is misleading• What investors buying into new construction may be signaling• Why some listing cancellations are actually a positive sign• How buyers are winning with concessions right now• The market indicator almost nobody is watching​​Before you make a real estate decision based on a scary headline, watch this.​The media is telling one story.​The actual data is telling another.​​#PhoenixRealEstate #ArizonaHousingMarket #PhoenixAZ​​

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Where do you draw the line? World Cup tickets at MetLife Stadium and Knicks home tickets for the NBA Finals are going for thousands of dollars. Listeners tell us what sporting events they're attending at affordable costs?  Photo: Fans wait for tickets prior to the start of the game between the Florida Marlins and the New York Mets during their Opening Day game at Citi Field on April 5, 2010. (Chris McGrath/Getty Images) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Connecticut is taking a different approach. While many states have moved to restrict access to the ballot, Connecticut expanded voting access by passing its own John R. Lewis Voting Rights Act and implementing no-excuse absentee voting. At the same time, state leaders have found themselves responding to federal immigration enforcement, protecting access to schools and public services, and addressing rising costs for residents. In this episode of The Margin, Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont joins Jen Taylor-Skinner to discuss the state's efforts to strengthen voting rights, resist federal voter-roll requests, protect immigrant communities, and increase civic participation. They also discuss Connecticut's high electricity costs, the regulation of utility companies like Eversource, and what states can realistically do to make life more affordable for residents. As the nation approaches its 250th anniversary, Lamont argues that states have an important role to play in protecting democratic participation and ensuring that residents feel invested in their communities. Follow @electorette on YouTube and Instagram, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts for more political midterm coverage, election analysis, and nuanced discussions that go beyond the headlines. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ohio AFL-CIO President Tim Burga just wrapped a seven-city labor roundtable tour across Ohio — and the message from workers was the same at every stop. Affordability is the number one issue, trust in government is near rock bottom and working people are ready for something dramatically different come November. On this episode of America's Work Force Union Podcast, Burga breaks down what he heard from union leaders in Cleveland, Cincinnati, Dayton, Akron, Marietta, Columbus and Toledo, why Democratic primary turnout reached its highest midterm level since 2006 and what the Ohio AFL-CIO is doing to educate members and mobilize votes between now and Election Day. He also raises a sharp warning about Republican plans to place voter ID in the Ohio constitution — despite it already being state law — and previews what is on the agenda at the AFL-CIO national convention in Minneapolis. Visit ohioaflcio.org for more information on the Ohio AFL-CIO's election work.

Tomato prices are the latest symbol of the affordability squeeze HR 2 full 2347 Wed, 03 Jun 2026 16:01:15 +0000 LWL6XTLdB0BABK6AR5M5pzKtn7vPmlDH news MIDDAY with JAYME & WIER news Tomato prices are the latest symbol of the affordability squeeze HR 2 From local news & politics, to what's trending, sports & personal stories...MIDDAY with JAYME & WIER will get you through the middle of your day! © 2025 Audacy, Inc. News https://player.amperwavep

One of the biggest problems that Karen Bass and Nithya Raman have created for young Angelenos is the cost of living. Affordability is crushing us. Here's my plan to make LA life more affordable for you, and put more $$$ in your pocket. We cannot afford another 4 years of Karen.For free and unbiased Medicare help, dial (656) 218-0931 to speak with my trusted partner, Chapter, or go to https://askchapter.org/nez▶Sign up to our Free Newsletter, so you never miss out: https://bio.site/professornez▶ ORIGINAL MADE IN U.S.A 250TH AMERICA DESIGNS: https://professornez.myspreadshop.com/

When New York passed its first major climate law in 2019, climate advocates hailed the work as a milestone: The Empire State vowed to cut its carbon emissions by 40% by 2030, as compared to their 1990 levels, giving it some of the world's most ambitious subnational climate policy. But last week, Governor Kathy Hochul and the state legislature moved to rewrite key provisions in that law, weakening deadlines and redefining its emissions math.What happened? And would New York have ever been able to hit its 2030 goal? On this episode of Shift Key, Rob is joined by Emily Pontecorvo, a founding staff writer at Heatmap. They discuss how New York has changed its targets, why it has altered its approach to natural gas, and whether state-level climate goals can survive an age of affordability politics. Shift Key is hosted by Robinson Meyer, the founding executive editor of Heatmap News.You can find a full transcript of the episode here.Mentioned:How New York Is Weakening Its Climate Law, by Emily PontecorvoLA Times: After heated debate, California updates key climate limit. Critics say it's a retreat--This episode of Shift Key is sponsored by ...Heatmap Pro brings all of our research, reporting, and insights down to the local level. The software platform tracks all local opposition to clean energy and data centers, forecasts community sentiment, and guides data-driven engagement campaigns. Book a demo today to see the premier intelligence platform for project permitting and community engagement.Music for Shift Key is by Adam Kromelow. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we feature an honest conversation with small business owners about the rising costs of health insurance and the difficult trade-offs they face to offer coverage to their employees. Employers share their firsthand experiences with affordability challenges, highlighting the real-world impact of escalating health care expenses on their businesses and lives. The discussion explores how Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan is partnering with employers to manage costs while maintaining access and quality for employees. Solutions such as value-based care, pharmacy cost management, and population health programs are examined as part of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan's commitment to creating sustainable, long-term affordability—emphasizing strategic partnerships over short-term cost shifting.Guests:•Andy Hetzel•Brian Calley•Mark Ware•Alan C. Young

Our U.S. Hardlines, Broadlines and Food Retail Analyst Simeon Gutman explains how affordability and new shopping habits are changing how Americans choose and care for their pets.Read more insights from Morgan Stanley.----- Transcript -----Simeon Gutman: Welcome to Thoughts on the Market. I'm Simeon Gutman, Morgan Stanley's U.S. Hardlines, Broadlines and Food Retail Analyst. Today: the state of the pet economy, or as we lovingly call it, the “petriarchy.” It's Monday, June 1st, at 10am in New York.Hey Sammy, who wants to go on a walk? If you have a pet, you probably know the routine. You go in for one bag of food. Then you remember the treats, the medicine, the grooming appointment. Maybe the toy they definitely do not need. And then the vet bill you hope is not around the corner. Pets are family. But family has gotten more expensive. That's the big shift in the U.S. pet economy. The emotional bond is still powerful. About two-thirds of dog and cat owners strongly agree their pet is an important member of the family. More than one-third say they would take on debt to pay for a pet's medical expenses. Today, the growth story in the pet industry has changed. After an extraordinary post-pandemic run, it has entered a slower, more mature phase. We see growth settling around 4 percent, down from nearly 9 percent annually from 2019 to 2025. That doesn't mean the market is shrinking. We still see total U.S. pet spending rising from about [$]200 billion in 2025 to more than [$]240 billion by 2030. But the easy growth days look behind us. The industry now has to work harder for each dollar. Affordability sits at the center of this story. A pet may start as an emotional decision, but it quickly becomes a line item in the household budget. Overall pet ownership remains above pre-COVID levels, at about 67 percent, but it has slipped from the 2024 high. That pressure shows up most clearly among younger consumers for whom cost has become the top barrier. And consumers are adapting. When pet food prices rise, shoppers stock up on sale items, compare prices online and in-store, and in some cases trade down. Still, pet food remains resilient. Almost all owners plan to keep spending the same or spend more on pet food over the next six months. The bigger change is that services continue to take share from products, with veterinary care at the center. Services accounted for just over 40 percent of pet industry spending in 2025, and we see that moving higher by 2030. Food and toys still matter, but healthcare, prescriptions, diagnostics and routine care are becoming a bigger part of the wallet. That brings us to vets – who remain the most trusted source of pet care information, cited by nearly 60 percent of owners. Younger pet owners still rely on vets, but they also turn more to online sources, friends, relatives and even store personnel. About three-quarters of owners visited a vet in the past six months, but average visits fell to under two, which is down from just over two in 2024. This points to a more cautious consumer, especially around routine care. We also see a subtle shift in the kinds of pets people choose. Cat ownership has moved higher versus pre-COVID levels, while dog ownership among younger adults has pulled back from its 2024 peak. That shift is not surprising, given that cats typically come with lower overall spending than dogs. Shopping habits are changing as well. Online pet product shopping has grown a lot since 2019, but its share of wallet has leveled off at roughly one-third. The next leg of digital growth may come less from simply moving store purchases online and more from subscriptions, pharmacy, healthcare and broader pet care ecosystems. So where does that leave the pet economy? Pet owners are certainly not walking away from their animals. But they are making more practical choices, watching prices more closely, and deciding where convenience, health and value fit into the same budget. Thanks for listening. If you enjoy the show, please leave us a review wherever you listen and share Thoughts on the Market with a friend or colleague today.

Affordability continues to dominate the concerns of American families, and for good reason. As prices remain elevated, energy costs are squeezing household budgets, housing has become increasingly out of reach, and the value of every dollar continues to erode. But these problems didn't appear out of nowhere; much of today's affordability crisis is the result of years of bad policy. In this episode of This Week's Economy, we'll examine why inflation remains a persistent burden, how housing shortages and overregulation continue driving up living costs, why tax and spending reforms matter for long-run affordability, and what the future of the Federal Reserve under Kevin Warsh could mean for restoring sound money and economic discipline.Watch the full episode and visit my website for more information about my work at Ginn Economic Consulting at vanceginn.com and show notes at vanceginn.substack.com.

In this episode, YIMBY Law's Sonja Trauss sits down with Alex Horowitz, Project Director of the Housing Policy Initiative at The Pew Charitable Trusts, to explore new research on how housing supply impacts affordability across American cities. The conversation examines the concept of “moving chains”—the process by which new housing creates opportunities throughout the housing market as residents move between homes. Sonja and Alex discuss why housing shortages disproportionately harm low-income renters, how new market-rate housing can reduce pressure on existing affordable units, and what the data reveals about the relationship between housing production and affordability. They also explore common misconceptions about new development, the political challenges surrounding housing production, and why zoning restrictions and permitting delays continue to worsen affordability nationwide. If you've ever wondered whether building more housing actually lowers costs, this episode offers a data-driven look at one of the most important debates in housing policy today. Read the research discussed in this episode: https://www.pew.org/en/research-and-analysis/articles/2025/07/31/new-housing-slows-rent-growth-most-for-older-more-affordable-units Join YIMBY Action's Email List: https://actionnetwork.org/forms/yimby-action-mailing-list Learn more about YIMBY Action: yimbyaction.org/join Follow YIMBY Action on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yimbyaction/ Follow YIMBY Action on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/yimbyaction.bsky.social Follow YIMBY Action on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yimbyaction/

Joyce talks about how a growing number of Democrats are starting to focus their messaging on Israel and AIPAC instead of the affordability message. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As control of the Senate hangs in the balance, many eyes are on Dan Osborn, of Nebraska. He's a dream candidate for the Democrats: a mechanic in the food-processing industry, a former president of his local union, and a veteran of the Navy and the Army National Guard. But Osborn isn't a Democrat; he's running as an independent. Polls show a close or tied race with the Republican incumbent, Pete Ricketts, an heir to a financial fortune. David Remnick talks with Osborn about leading a strike at a Kellogg's plant; how Donald Trump's tariffs are affecting voters in an agricultural state; and Osborn's decision to not caucus with either party if he wins the seat. Further reading:  “Can the Democrats Take Back the Senate?,” by Amy Davidson Sorkin   New episodes of The New Yorker Radio Hour drop every Tuesday and Friday. Join host David Remnick as he discusses the latest in politics, news, and current events in conversation with political leaders, newsmakers, innovators, New Yorker staff writers, authors, actors, and musicians. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

If you're anything like Building Local Power's host, Danny Caine, you've seen your electric bill creep up and are wondering: are data centers to blame for this? Danny sets out to answer this and other burning questions about the murky way in which Big Tech's data center arms race, public utilities, and electric bills intersect. Bringing his unanswered questions to energy experts, his neighbors, and his trusty dad, Danny aims to discover exactly how utilities make money from data center development, and if there's any hope for our electric bills. Guest voices + context:  Kevin Caine: Dad of Building Local Power host, Danny Caine, and resident of Cleveland, OhioJohn Farrell: Co-director of the Institute for Local Self-Reliance and director of the Energy Democracy InitiativeCathy Kunkel: Energy consultant at the Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis (IEEFA)  Elena Schlossberg: Executive director of the Coalition to Protect Prince William CountyAndrew Chow: TIME technology correspondent who has extensively covered AI and data centers at the intersection of race over the past few years. Resources: Data Center Watch BriefingOhio's electric bills are high — and so are utility CEO salaries The Policies Communities Need to Confront the AI Data Center Race North Star Data Center Policy Toolkit: State and Local Policy Interventions to Stop Rampant AI Data Center Expansion - AI Now InstituteThe People Say No: Resisting Data Centers in the South - MediaJusticeProposed Prince William data center prompts protest letter to Jeff Bezos - The Washington PostOutcry grows over proposed Prince William data center - The Washington Post    

Think buying a home in 2026 is impossible? The math says otherwise, and this episode breaks down why affordability has quietly improved for first-time homebuyers.Housing affordability headlines are creating fear, but the actual numbers tell a different story. This episode explains why 2026 is mathematically more affordable than 2023, even after years of rising home prices and higher mortgage rates. Listeners learn how credit scores, debt-to-income ratios, savings, and income requirements affect mortgage options today and why many first-time buyers still have more paths forward than they realize. The episode also breaks down the danger of outdated advice and shows how education, planning, and understanding the current market can help buyers move forward with confidence.“It's time to once again bring you hope and possibilities with my favorite friends. Math and data.” — David Sidoni, First Time Homebuyer Coach HighlightsWhy was 2023 actually less affordable than 2026 for first-time homebuyers?How do lower interest rates change affordability even when prices stay high?What do credit scores, debt, savings, and income really mean for mortgage approval today?Why are so many buyers getting outdated or misleading homebuying advice online and from industry professionals?Check out our updated 2026 First Time Homebuyer's Episode Guide - Over 100 of our BEST Episodes of Detailed Homebuying Knowledge, Interviews, and MORE! Connect with me to find a trusted realtor in your area or to answer your burning questions!Subscribe to our YouTube Channel @HowToBuyaHomeInstagram @HowtoBuyAHomePodcastTik Tok @HowToBuyAHomeVisit our Resource Center to "Ask David" AND get your FREE Home Buying Starter Kit!David Sidoni, the "How to Buy a Home Guy," is a seasoned real estate professional and consumer advocate with two decades of experience helping first-time homebuyers navigate the real estate market. His podcast, "How to Buy a Home," is a trusted resource for anyone looking to buy their first home. It offers expert advice, actionable tips, and inspiring stories from real first-time homebuyers. With a focus on making the home-buying process accessible and understandable, David breaks down complex topics into easy-to-follow steps, covering everything from budgeting and financing to finding the right home and making an offer. Subscribe for regular market updates, and leave a review to help us reach more people. Ready for an honest, informed home-buying experience? Viva la Unicorn Revolution - join us!

On this episode of The Federalist Radio Hour, Cornerstone University President Gerson Moreno-Riano joins Federalist Elections Correspondent Matt Kittle to discuss the rising cost of higher education and explain how his university is tackling the affordability, DEI, and godlessness crises afflicting other institutions without sacrificing quality learning. Read more about Moreno-Riano and Cornerstone University here. The Federalist Foundation is a nonprofit, and we depend entirely on our listeners and readers — not corporations. If you value fearless, independent journalism, please consider a tax-deductible gift today at TheFederalist.com/donate. Your support keeps us going.