Podcasts about missing middle

Send us Fan MailWhat if the most important care doesn't happen in a hospital, hospice, or clinic—but in the moments in between?In Part Two of The Missing Middle in Healthcare—And Why It Matters, Chris Comeaux continues his conversation with Bridget Sumser and Sonya Dolan of Mettle Health to explore the often-overlooked gap between medical treatment and the lived human experience of illness. Together, they unpack the role of grief, community, language, and connection in supporting people facing serious illness, caregiving responsibilities, and end-of-life challenges.This episode challenges traditional healthcare thinking by asking a powerful question: Are we treating diseases while missing the deeper needs of the people experiencing them? Bridget and Sonya share their vision for a future where grief literacy, community support, and compassionate accompaniment become essential parts of care—not afterthoughts.Highlights from this Episode:✔ Why the word “hospice” can create unintended barriers to care✔ The difference between treating illness and caring for the whole person✔ How grief begins long before death and affects all of us✔ Why community—not healthcare alone—is the missing middle✔ The future of serious illness support and human-centered care✔ How anyone can learn the skills of accompaniment and compassionate presence✔ Mettle Health's vision for transforming the way we navigate illness, loss, and mortalityWhether you're leading a healthcare organization, caring for a loved one, or simply interested in improving the human experience of healthcare, this conversation will challenge and inspire you.Subscribe for more conversations on leadership, purpose, healthcare innovation, and human flourishing.Guest:Sonya Dolan Co-Founder, Mettle HealthBridget Sumser, LCSW; Director of Counseling and Programs, Mettle HealthHost:Chris Comeaux, President | CEO of TELEIOS and author of The Anatomy of LeadershipThe Anatomy of Leadership podcast explores the art and science of leadership through candid, insightful conversations with thought leaders, innovators, and change-makers from a variety of industries. Hosted by Chris Comeaux, each episode dives into the mindsets, habits, and strategies that empower leaders to thrive in complex, fast-changing environments. With topics ranging from organizational culture and emotional intelligence to navigating disruption and inspiring teams, the show blends real-world stories with practical takeaways. The goal is simple yet ambitious: to equip leaders at every level with the tools, perspectives, and inspiration they need to lead with vision, empathy, and impact.https://www.teleioscn.org/anatomy-of-leadership

What if the most important care doesn't happen in a hospital, hospice, or clinic—but in the moments in between?In Part Two of The Missing Middle in Healthcare—And Why It Matters, Chris Comeaux continues his conversation with Bridget Sumser and Sonya Dolan of Mettle Health to explore the often-overlooked gap between medical treatment and the lived human experience of illness. Together, they unpack the role of grief, community, language, and connection in supporting people facing serious illness, caregiving responsibilities, and end-of-life challenges.This episode challenges traditional healthcare thinking by asking a powerful question: Are we treating diseases while missing the deeper needs of the people experiencing them? Bridget and Sonya share their vision for a future where grief literacy, community support, and compassionate accompaniment become essential parts of care—not afterthoughts.Highlights from this Episode:✔ Why the word “hospice” can create unintended barriers to care ✔ The difference between treating illness and caring for the whole person ✔ How grief begins long before death and affects all of us ✔ Why community—not healthcare alone—is the missing middle ✔ The future of serious illness support and human-centered care ✔ How anyone can learn the skills of accompaniment and compassionate presence ✔ Mettle Health's vision for transforming the way we navigate illness, loss, and mortalityWhether you're leading a healthcare organization, caring for a loved one, or simply interested in improving the human experience of healthcare, this conversation will challenge and inspire you.Subscribe for more conversations on leadership, purpose, healthcare innovation, and human flourishing.Guest:Sonya Dolan Co-Founder, Mettle Health Bridget Sumser, LCSW; Director of Counseling and Programs, Mettle HealthHost:Chris Comeaux, President | CEO of TELEIOS and author of The Anatomy of LeadershipTeleios Collaborative Network   /   https://www.teleioscn.org/tcntalkspodcast

Over a century ago, Toronto banned apartment buildings from most residential streets — while European cities like Paris, Berlin, and Amsterdam were building them as the default fabric of urban life. That decision shaped the city we live in today: a landscape of single-family houses and condo towers with almost nothing in between. In 2019, Globe and Mail architecture critic Alex Bozikovic co-edited House Divided, a book that former Chief Planner Gregg Lintern has credited with kick-starting Toronto's missing middle conversation. Seven years later, multiplexes and sixplexes are now permitted across the city, but the gap between zoning reform and actual construction remains wide — and the affordability crisis has only deepened. In this episode, John and Alex explore the history behind Toronto's housing divide, what's changed since the book was published, and some of the harder questions the missing middle movement still needs to answer — including whether the math can work at four to six units at a time, the challenge of retrofitting a city that was physically built for something else, and a striking paradox: the European cities we look to for inspiration are built almost entirely of the housing types being advocated for here, and they're deep in their own affordability crises.

Send us Fan MailWhat happens after a serious diagnosis—but before hospice care begins?In this compelling conversation, host Chris Comeaux sits down with Sonya Dolan, Co-Founder of Mettle Health, and Bridget Sumser, Director of Counseling & Programs, to explore one of healthcare's most overlooked challenges: the “missing middle.”Drawing from decades of experience in hospice, palliative care, caregiving, and serious illness support, Sonya and Bridget discuss the critical gaps patients and families face as they navigate life-altering diagnoses, caregiving responsibilities, grief, and uncertainty. Together, they unpack why traditional healthcare systems often struggle to address the emotional, relational, practical, and existential realities of serious illness—and how Mettle Health is working to fill that gap through compassionate accompaniment and human-centered care.This episode offers valuable insights for healthcare leaders, hospice professionals, nonprofit executives, caregivers, and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of what it means to truly support people through life's most difficult transitions.

What happens after a serious diagnosis—but before hospice care begins?In this compelling conversation, host Chris Comeaux sits down with Sonya Dolan, Co-Founder of Mettle Health, and Bridget Sumser, Director of Counseling & Programs, to explore one of healthcare's most overlooked challenges: the “missing middle.”Drawing from decades of experience in hospice, palliative care, caregiving, and serious illness support, Sonya and Bridget discuss the critical gaps patients and families face as they navigate life-altering diagnoses, caregiving responsibilities, grief, and uncertainty. Together, they unpack why traditional healthcare systems often struggle to address the emotional, relational, practical, and existential realities of serious illness—and how Mettle Health is working to fill that gap through compassionate accompaniment and human-centered care.This episode offers valuable insights for healthcare leaders, hospice professionals, nonprofit executives, caregivers, and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of what it means to truly support people through life's most difficult transitions.

Why are young Canadians leaving cities? Why are seniors staying in homes that are too big for them? And can Canada lower housing costs without cutting quality of life even further?In this listener Q&A episode of The Missing Middle, Sabrina Maddeaux and Cara Stern answer audience questions on housing affordability, immigration, downsizing, social isolation, wage stagnation, the Greenbelt, and why building more “missing middle” housing has become so difficult in Canada.Topics covered:Why seniors aren't downsizingThe shortage of family-sized homesHousing prices vs stagnant wagesSocial isolation and unaffordable citiesImmigration and housing demandThe Greenbelt debateWhat young Canadians can do politicallyIf you enjoy the episode, subscribe and leave a comment with your own question for a future mailbag episode.Eamon Seniors are lonely, rich, and live in houses that are too big, often in desirable neighbourhoods. Young people are desperate for housing, poor, and looking for roommates. Why not create a tax incentive for seniors to free up rooms in their houses for young people? I think a vacancy tax is punitive, but a tax incentive could unlock housing in a win-win (rather than zero sum) way for willing participants. Thoughts? KateIn your second-time homebuyer article you mention that various government initiatives could lower newly built housing costs by up to 15% which would free up more family sized homes "making it easier for seniors to downsize". How would lowering the cost of newly built homes by 15% make it easier for seniors to downsize? In my view, the more significant factor facing senior downsizers is not the cost of new housing but the scarcity of appealing post-move options for them. Mary (edited for length) I am a boomer with two millennial children who haven't yet reached middle-class milestones like stable employment or homeownership. I believe factors other than parental status are at play: 1) Are houses more expensive, or are incomes simply failing to keep up with declining purchasing power? 2) Given the rise in single-person households, why is there so much social isolation, and how does the difficulty of making connections in urban environments impact the ability for young people to save and enter the housing market?Chris Jeanneret and came from the comments section of our Greenbelt episode: Is the Greenbelt even practical for "affordable" housing, or does it only provide more land for luxury country estates? @canucklhead Isn't the obvious solution here to keep immigration low for the next few years to keep pressuring rents lower? Wouldn't this be the easiest solution to help affordability for everyone? Emily writes: I see what is happening to those under 25 and it is awful. How can I get involved? What steps can I take that will make the most difference? Do you know of a group in Edmonton organizing that is making a real difference especially in the "missing middle". Chapters: 00:00Mailbag Special: Your Housing Questions Answered00:23Should Seniors Rent Out Empty Bedrooms?02:57Will Cheaper New Homes Help Seniors Downsize?05:07Why Millennials Are Falling Behind06:00Social Isolation, Third Places & Housing Costs08:05How Housing Affordability Breaks Friendships and Communities10:54Can the Greenbelt Deliver Affordable Housing?12:43Is Lower Immigration the Fastest Path to Affordability?14:16What Canadians Can Do to Push for ChangeResearch/links:The Disappearing "Third Place": Why Making Friends Is Getting Harderhttps://youtu.be/WYFTsrvwr0o?si=IIGS4jllTN2dKT5hGrow Together Edmontonhttps://www.growtogetheryeg.com/Hosted by Mike Moffatt & Cara Stern & Sabrina MaddeauxProduced by Meredith MartinFunded by the Neptis Foundation https://neptis.org/

The MAFFEO DRINKS Podcast is a leading drinks business podcast, listened to in 120 countries worldwide with 125+ episodes. Honest conversations about how the industry actually works, from the bar and what it means for the boardroom.This Episode is hosted by Chris Maffeo and brought to you by MAFFEO DRINKS.Robert Simonson, author of seven cocktail books including “A Proper Drink,” and "Modern Classic Cocktails", has spent twenty-five years documenting the modern cocktail era as it happened. Not reconstructed afterwards. Not filtered through brand mythology or oral history passed between generations of sales managers. He was in the room. He talked to the people making the decisions while the bars were still open and the drinks were still new. Seven books. His Substack newsletter The Mix. A primary source in an industry where almost everything gets retold until it resembles something useful to whoever is telling it.In this episode, we go back to the question that most people in commercial roles cannot answer precisely: why did the canon close, and what replaced it. We examine the intimidation factor preventing cocktail culture from scaling to mass audiences, the missing middle between 50 Best Bars theatrical experiences and basic dive bars, and why guest shifts evolved from knowledge-sharing mechanisms into publicity machines.The answer is mechanical. It has been running inside the industry for over a decade. And if your brand is not scaling at the pace you want, despite the distribution, the accounts, and the activations, it is likely the same dynamic is producing the same result at a different scale.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:09 The Birth of Modern Cocktails00:41 Modern Classics and Their Impact03:06 Challenges in Creating New Cocktails08:30 The Role of Brands in Cocktail Evolution16:37 The Missing Middle in Cocktail Culture25:10 The Future of Cocktail Journalism30:54 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Wanna know what the conversation above means for your team? It's in the paid section.For €100 a year you get access to Maffeo Confidential (Private Podcast) and get this analysis and access to the full archive of 125 episodes, each one translated from industry conversation into the commercial decisions underneath it. Find out more at maffeodrinks.com

On this episode, Bobby Ocampo, Co-Founder and Managing Partner at Blueprint Equity, discusses how to identify whether a bootstrapped business has what it takes to scale, and what it takes to build the go-to-market infrastructure that gets it there.Bobby walks through the three signals he looks for when assessing a company's growth potential, why resisting pressure to raise a larger fund can help firms stay competitive in the 'missing middle', and how an embedded operating team—funded out of management fees rather than charged to portcos—changes the nature of the investor-founder relationship.

Where do you get your information about what's happening in the greater Charlottesville area? Hopefully from multiple sources in order to expose yourself to multiple perspectives. But perhaps this is your first time looking at (or listening to) the opening words of a sonic edition of Charlottesville Community Engagement, a newsletter and podcast that seeks to get more people to understand what's happening at local and regional government.Longtime readers are aware that there is a podcast edition of this newsletter that eventually shows up. No matter the day of publication, the sonic version also serves as a way for people who refuse to listen to still have an opportunity to sample stories from the past week that have since been posted over at Information Charlottesville.This particular edition is a longer version than usual as there was no dedicated podcast last week. That means this one has audio stories from two WTJU radio editions plus some that didn't fit in the broadcast version for May 16. There's a lot happening in this community and I'm determine to cover what I can through the lens of local government.I'm Sean Tubbs and I'll remind everyone that this work is only possible due to paid subscriptions to Substack as well as charitable contributions. Since July 2020, this newsletter seeks to bring information to as many people as possible in the hope of improving conversations.In this edition:* Salvation Army launches fundraising campaign for Center for Hope (read the story)* Many details remain to be worked out for how three groups will work together at Charlottesville's future low-barrier shelter (read the story)* Albemarle staff working on five projects to implement new Comprehensive Plan (read the story)* Albemarle Supervisors leave Comprehensive Plan amendment process as is (read the story)* Charlottesville to form committee of developers to encourage more Missing Middle housing (read the story)* Council holds first reading on how to use Community Development Block Grants CDBG funds in 2026 (read the story)* Tree Commission presents recommendations for how City Council can help improve tree canopy (read the story)* In a divided vote, MPO Policy Board moves forward with two Smart Scale projects without city support (read the story)* Albemarle and Charlottesville both mark Older Americans Month (read the story)First shout-out: Camp Albemarle!Since the middle of 2020, one way I've brought in revenue for Charlottesville Community Engagement has been by offering shout-outs to those who were willing to pay a little more to help this venture get off the ground.For six years, one of those people has been someone who wanted you to know a little about Camp Albemarle, which has for over eighty years been a “wholesome rural, rustic and restful site for youth activities, church groups, civic events and occasional private programs.”Located on 14 acres on the banks of the Moorman's River near Free Union, Camp Albemarle continues as a legacy of being a Civilian Conservation Corps project that sought to promote the importance of rural activities.Rebuilt in the early 1980's, a legacy of 4-H programming thrives along with a wide range of additional activities. Educational initiatives from schools across the region spark environmental learning moments at every turn. Visit the website to learn more!Second shout-out: Support this journalism with a paid subscription or a charitable gift! Every day I wake up and think about what I need to do to get stories out about what's happening. Over the past six years, I've built an engine to remind me when I clock in what I need to do next. If life is a role-playing game, I rolled the dice and ended up in the weird category of observer.I'm able to do this work and be prolific because of the investments of others over the past 20 years. For almost six years now, this newsletter has sought to document upcoming decisions about the future. There is a value to having someone consistently paying attention to help others understand how we got to here and how we might go forward.Perhaps you want to help ensure the work continues?* A paid subscription through Substack is the most effective. There is little to no content behind the paywall, but this helps pay the bills.* You can make a charitable contribution through the Tiny News Collective. This directly supports journalism and is likely the way I'll be able to hire people. Learn more here.* You can become an experimental advertiser! For a very low price, you can support the work by getting a message out in the form of a shout-out, a sponsorship message, or a display ad over at Information Charlottesville. Message me for more information.But perhaps the most important thing is to share this newsletter with people you think might be interested. Right now I'm very close to 5,000 subscribers to this newsletter and it would be nice to cross that threshold some time this year. Do your part and find out what the share button does! And here are some social media possibilities:* I created a BlueSky account because I missed Twitter but I don't do much except post links to Information Charlottesville stories. That may change.* There are 444 followers of the Town Crier Productions Facebook page which is currently solely used to let people know when a story has been posted to Information Charlottesville. I may begin using this to do live video of podcast recording. Interested?* There are slightly more followers on Instagram, but I have paused posting here because I want to make the images look better and so far that's not been worth investing the time.* I post a version of the Week Ahead on Reddit each Sunday which is a little shorter. This is intended to attract people to the newsletter and many of you got here from there. But there is no official page and you have to know my username. Maybe I'll change that in the future?* Except for reposts of this show, there is no new content on the Charlottesville Podcasting Network but it predates this newsletter by 15 years. I had a good idea and all I wanted to do was tell stories about the community. Here I am still, hoping to get more people involved.* Except for instructional videos on how to produce audio, I'm not doing video. Not everyone has to do video. But I just found this very unwatchable thing I did for Patreon supporters back in May 2021! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit communityengagement.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, we speak with Thilo Klein about daycare allocation in Germany – a problem that is still mostly run by uncoordinated offers, even though it is well understood in matching theory. The gap isn't theory; it's the missing layer that turns academic mechanisms into systems municipalities can actually run. Thilo Klein traces how that layer is now being built – through years of research, an open-source experiment that taught hard lessons, and a spin-out. A conversation about market design where it lands.   Thilo Klein is Professor of Quantitative Economics at Pforzheim Business School and a senior researcher at ZEW – Leibniz Centre for European Economic Research. He is also the co-founder of MatchingTools, a company that develops software for real-world matching problems, including KitaMatch, a platform for daycare allocation. Learn more at https://matchingtools.de.  

Why are so many young Canadians leaving and why are some people suggesting they should be punished for it?In this episode of The Missing Middle, Mike Moffatt and Sabrina Maddeaux break down the growing “brain drain” from Canada to the United States and the shocking proposal that young people who leave should pay a $500,000 exit fee.They dig into what's really driving this trend: unaffordable housing, stagnant wages, limited career opportunities, and policy decisions that increasingly favour older, wealthier generations.This isn't about loyalty. It's about survival and a country that may no longer offer young people a path to the life their parents had.

Alkarim Devani has built over 1,000 homes in Calgary — fourplexes, row houses, a 212-unit heritage restoration — and noticed something strange: people kept asking about the small projects. That observation turned into a doctorate, a national education program, and a growing movement to make middle housing a viable career path for a whole new generation of city builders. In this episode, he talks about why the obstacles aren't what most people think, why large developers will never fill this gap, and what it's actually going to take to get more people building. ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES Alkarim Devani (LinkedIn) Alkarim Devani (Site) mddl (LinkedIn) Norm Van Eeden Petersman (LinkedIn) Do you know someone who would make for a great Bottom-Up Revolution guest? Let us know here.   This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Thank you! Join fellow members discussing this episode in The Commons.

In this interview with BizNews, Ryan Passmore – Durban-based fintech founder of ZenFund Connect – unpacks why he believes South Africa's student funding system is broken, and how he proposes to fix it. Passmore points to the "missing middle": households earning between R350,000 and R600,000 a year, who are too well-off to qualify for NSFAS but cannot afford the R19,000 a month the University of Pretoria says it costs to put a child through an undergraduate degree. He cites stark 2026 figures – NSFAS received over 900,000 first-time applications, with more than 100,000 rejected outright, while of 500,000 continuing students assessed, only 100,000 were approved. Passmore says: "I believe the missing middle is South Africa's policy blind spot." He outlines how ZenFund Connect – a nonprofit student life ecosystem associated with the Chad le Clos Foundation, spanning South Africa's 26 public universities – aims to plug the gap through three integrated modules: finance, DHET-verified student accommodation, and career placement. Passmore argues that bursaries and loans alone will not solve graduate unemployment; only an end-to-end ecosystem that walks with the student from matric through to a job placement can shift the trajectory of the working-class families he calls the country's invisible backbone – the nurses, teachers, civil servants and small business owners whose children South Africa cannot afford to lose.

Caitlin Taylor — architect, farmer, and founder of Midcourse Design & Development — is in good traffic this week for a conversation about the missing middle of America's food system, and why architects need to understand farming, supply chains, and retail, en route to rebuilding regional infrastructure.We also touch on: Why architects rarely work on food infrastructure. The lived experience of running a certified organic farm. How Mass Design Group shaped her practice model. The missing middle between industrial and direct-to-consumer. Why most food businesses operate despite the built environment, not because of it. Regional processing as the bottleneck. Fiddleheads co-op in New London, Connecticut as an exemplar. Why independently owned grocery stores are so rare. Grocery store layout and fresh versus shelf-stable ratios. Projects coming soon that will demonstrate the Midcourse model.Timeline:00:00 Caitlin Taylor is in good traffic.05:35 The multidisciplinary studio model.07:24 Weaving architecture, operations, planning, and finance.08:02 How Caitlin started Midcourse.08:39 Being both an architect and a farmer.09:31 Living on a certified organic farm.10:19 The food world as a small, networked community.11:11 Only architect in a room of farmers, only farmer in a room of architects.12:02 When the realization happened.13:04 Husband becoming a farmer while Caitlin was in grad school.13:39 The wacky idea that food system architecture mattered.14:21 Joining Mass Design Group in 2016.14:41 Founding the Food Systems Design Lab.16:59 Testing what role architecture plays in regional food systems.20:53 Why Caitlin left Mass to start Midcourse.25:31 The missing middle of food infrastructure.31:15 Processing, storage, distribution, aggregation.37:00 Why regional infrastructure disappeared.43:03 Globalized consolidation and economies of scale.49:21 Making regional systems economically viable.55:12 How architects can help food businesses.56:01 Grocery stores as museums of regional food.56:48 Seasonal eating and living with the seasons.57:17 Fresh versus packaged shelf ratios.58:04 Where to see this in action.58:27 Fiddleheads co-op in New London, Connecticut.59:35 Independently owned cooperative grocery stores.1:00:25 Why co-ops are so rare and often fail.1:01:23 The commute question.1:01:55 200 feet from kitchen to farm wash station.1:03:02 Wrapping up.Links:More on Midcourse.

Aaron Masliansky sits down with Johanna Nyden, Community Development Director for the Village of Skokie, to explore how local government navigates housing, infrastructure, and development in a built-out suburban community. This conversation goes beyond headlines and breaks down the real-world constraints that shape housing supply, affordability, and the built environment. In this episode, we cover: What a Community Development Director actually does day to day Why housing costs are rising—and what municipalities can and cannot control The impact of aging housing stock and infrastructure on homeowners and communities How permitting and inspections work behind the scenes (and where friction comes from) What people often misunderstand about the building process The reality of “missing middle” housing and why zoning isn't always the issue How infrastructure limitations (water, sewer, electrical) shape development decisions The tradeoffs between affordability, safety, and building codes The role of technology and AI in permitting and municipal workflows Short-term rentals, ADUs, and evolving housing policy Why more people are staying in their homes—and what that means for inventory How Skokie is planning for the future while managing legacy systems Key takeaway: Housing challenges aren't driven by a single issue. They are the result of overlapping constraints—costs, infrastructure, policy, and market forces—that municipalities are working to balance every day. Thank you for listening to The Chicagoland Guide.For thoughtful, data-driven insights on living, working, and investing in Chicagoland, visit thechicagolandguide.com.Connect with Aaron Masliansky on LinkedIn for market updates and new episodes.If you have questions, ideas, or topics you'd like covered, feel free to reach out.If you found this episode valuable, consider subscribing and sharing it with someone who cares about Chicago and its future.

The acting CEO of the National Student Financial Aid Scheme, Waseem Carrim, speaks to John Maytham about its planned review of NSFAS’ Missing-Middle Loan Scheme. Presenter John Maytham is an actor and author-turned-talk radio veteran and seasoned journalist. His show serves a round-up of local and international news coupled with the latest in business, sport, traffic and weather. The host’s eclectic interests mean the program often surprises the audience with intriguing book reviews and inspiring interviews profiling artists. A daily highlight is Rapid Fire, just after 5:30pm. CapeTalk fans call in, to stump the presenter with their general knowledge questions. Another firm favourite is the humorous Thursday crossing with award-winning journalist Rebecca Davis, called “Plan B”. Thank you for listening to a podcast from Afternoon Drive with John Maytham Listen live on Primedia+ weekdays from 15:00 and 18:00 (SA Time) to Afternoon Drive with John Maytham broadcast on CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show go to https://buff.ly/BSFy4Cn or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/n8nWt4x Subscribe to the CapeTalk Daily and Weekly Newsletters https://buff.ly/sbvVZD5 Follow us on social media: CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For years, the Missing Middle team has advocated for reducing the tax burden on new construction. With pre-construction sales down 95% in some GTA markets, the industry has hit a wall where it simply makes no financial sense to build.In this week's episode, we answer some of the questions and misconceptions we've read online about the new HST rebate on new homes. Beyond the rebate, they explore bigger structural challenges like land costs, zoning, and competition in development. The key question remains whether this policy can meaningfully increase supply in a market that is still not functioning normally.If the goal is to improve affordability, the HST rebate may help, but it is only one part of a much larger housing problem.Chapters:00:00 - Gov Announces HST Rebate and Reduced Development Charges01:22 - Overview of HST Changes01:52 -  History of Previous Rental and Ownership Rebates02:58 - Expanding Eligibility Beyond First-Time Buyers05:32 - Addressing the "Demand Subsidy" Misconception07:25 - Will Developers Pass Savings to the Buyer?09:04 - The Impact on Land Values and the Need for Reform10:05 - Historical Comparison of Government Taxes and Fees11:26 - How Accurate are the Government Numbers?12:42 - Projected Impact and the One-Year Program Limit14:09 - Retroactive Eligibility and Final ThoughtsResearch/links:Doug Ford and Mark Carney to expand HST rebate to all new home buyershttps://www.thestar.com/news/canada/exclusive-ford-and-carney-to-expand-hst-rebate-to-all-new-home-buyers/article_55543d47-86b9-466d-bd17-6155c4d62097.htmlDoug Ford and Mark Carney to expand HST rebate to all new home buyers : r/canadahousinghttps://www.reddit.com/r/canadahousing/comments/1s3a8cs/doug_ford_and_mark_carney_to_expand_hst_rebate_to/Hosted by Mike Moffatt & Cara Stern & Sabrina MaddeauxProduced by Meredith MartinThis podcast is funded by the Neptis Foundation and brought to you by the Smart Prosperity Institute.

Greg brady spoke with Dr. Mike Moffatt, Economist, Founding Director, PLACE Centre. Co-Host, "Missing Middle" about Mark Carney, Doug Ford to cut development charges by up to 50 per cent to boost housing construction. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Much focus goes on food growing and selling, but is the missing link in increasing the UK's food self sufficiency actually food processing? It might be all about Ultra Processed Foods in the news, but there is another, much older, side to food processing that plays an integral role in getting food from fields to our plates.Beans, peas, oats, veg and barley can all be produced in the UK in abundance, but producers often have to transport their crops for miles to reach basic processing facilities like cleaning, sorting, de-hulling or grading. The UK's processing factories are part of a globalised food supply chain, importing vast volumes of grains and pulses from overseas as ingredients in our food. But it wasn't always the case, as we hear from a Sheffield historian who has uncovered the city's link with pea canning and the female pea pioneer who transformed the processing industry. From the farmer making oat milk in his own barn, to the UK's last remaining processing facility for peas and beans, Sheila Dillon lifts the lid on this hidden part of the supply chain, and finds an industry at a crossroads.Produced by Nina Pullman.

In this episode of The Missing Middle, Cara Stern sits down with YouTuber Paige Saunders to discuss the one structural glitch that is sabotaging Canada's economy, healthcare, and housing market: our electoral system.While most democracies have moved on to Proportional Representation, Canada remains stuck with a model that empowers swing ridings and ignores millions of voters. Paige explains why this monopoly on power prevents real innovation and how a simple change in how we vote could lead to a 20% performance increase across the board.In this video:How our voting system benefits wealthy peopleWhich voting system would a villain choose?Why Ranked Choice is a trap for multi-party democracies.The path forward: Why we need a binding Citizens' Assembly.Check out Paige Saunders' channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PaigeMTLChapters:00:37 Intro: The hidden force behind Canada's biggest problems01:12 What's broken about Canada's voting system01:48 How swing ridings control the country04:03 Why politicians ignore entire groups of voters05:26 Does proportional representation hurt suburbs?06:59 Populism, power, and lack of accountability08:59 Why this won't magically fix housing10:17 Why politicians refuse to change the system11:11 Why most Canadians don't even notice the problem12:58 Is Canada heading down the US/UK path?15:13 Why electoral reform keeps failing19:40 The real barrier to change24:24 The AI test: which system is worst?29:12 “I was shocked Canada still uses this”32:28 Is Canada falling behind on democracy?36:03 Can anything actually force reform?40:00 What a better system could look like42:45 Final thoughts: a more Canadian democracyHosted by Mike Moffatt & Cara Stern & Sabrina MaddeauxProduced by Meredith MartinThis podcast is funded by the Neptis Foundation and brought to you by the Smart Prosperity Institute.

Rates, Inflation, Jobs, Missing Middle? What the heck is going to happen this year and beyond?! Tune into hear Nick & Dan's Real Estate predictions for this year. Try it NordVPN risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee! Use our code "realestate" to get 4 extras months from a 2 years plan Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) | BMO Global Asset Management VANCOUVER MULTIPLEX EVENT TICKETS LISTEN AD FREE Realist.caSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If Canada isn't in a recession, why does it feel like one for so many Canadians?In this episode of Classonomics from The Missing Middle, hosts Sabrina Maddeaux and Mike Moffatt dig into one of the biggest contradictions in today's economy. On paper, everything looks great. GDP is growing. Corporate profits are strong. Stock markets are hitting record highs. Yet, for millions of Canadians, life feels harder than ever. Food bank usage has doubled since 2019. Young people can't afford homes in cities where their parents once bought starter houses. And even full-time workers are struggling to make ends meet.Sabrina and Mike break down what's really happening beneath those rosy headlines through the lens of the K-shaped economy, where wealthier Canadians continue to thrive while everyone else falls further behind. The top 20 percent are seeing record financial gains from stocks and investments, while the bottom 40 percent are sinking under housing costs, stagnant wages, and shrinking purchasing power.They explore how this divide is reshaping not only people's bank accounts but also their trust in institutions, politics, and the very idea of upward mobility. When the data says the economy is strong but your grocery bill says otherwise, frustration and hopelessness grow, and faith in the system fades fast.Does Canada's economy feel strong to you, or are you feeling left behind? Join the discussion in the comments.Chapters:00:00 – Intro01:32 – What is a “K-Shaped Economy”? (The Two-Way Split)02:54 – Why Younger Canadians Feel Locked Out of Growth04:10 – The Record-Breaking Income Gap in Canada05:18 – How the Richest Stay Ahead06:48 – The Parental Wealth trap08:24 – Hard Work vs. Inheritance09:56 – Shocking Stats on Food Bank Users11:47 – Why Canadians Feel Gaslit by GDP data15:21 – Restoring the Link Between Work and RewardRESEARCH LINKS:Statistics Canada - Distributions of household economic accounts, third quarter 2025The Hub - Canada's growing wealth gap in 7 chartsFood Banks Canada - HungerCount 2025Statistics Canada - Income and wealth gaps increased in 3rd quarter of 2025TD Economics - The Days Of Our Lives (K-shaped economy analysis)Parliamentary Budget Officer - Estimating the top tail of the family wealth distribution 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 episode of the Real Estate Pros podcast, host Q Edmonds interviews Eugene Gershman, a Real Estate Development Manager. Eugene shares his journey from a construction family to becoming a development manager, highlighting the complexities of real estate development and the importance of relationships in business. He emphasizes the need for continuous learning and curiosity in the industry, as well as his aspirations to be a go-to resource for landowners considering development. The conversation is rich with insights on personal growth, the intricacies of project management, and the value of authentic relationships in business.   Professional Real Estate Investors - How we can help you: Investor Fuel Mastermind:  Learn more about the Investor Fuel Mastermind, including 100% deal financing, massive discounts from vendors and sponsors you're already using, our world class community of over 150 members, and SO much more here: http://www.investorfuel.com/apply   Investor Machine Marketing Partnership:  Are you looking for consistent, high quality lead generation? Investor Machine is America's #1 lead generation service professional investors. Investor Machine provides true 'white glove' support to help you build the perfect marketing plan, then we'll execute it for you…talking and working together on an ongoing basis to help you hit YOUR goals! Learn more here: http://www.investormachine.com   Coaching with Mike Hambright:  Interested in 1 on 1 coaching with Mike Hambright? Mike coaches entrepreneurs looking to level up, build coaching or service based businesses (Mike runs multiple 7 and 8 figure a year businesses), building a coaching program and more. Learn more here: https://investorfuel.com/coachingwithmike   Attend a Vacation/Mastermind Retreat with Mike Hambright: Interested in joining a "mini-mastermind" with Mike and his private clients on an upcoming "Retreat", either at locations like Cabo San Lucas, Napa, Park City ski trip, Yellowstone, or even at Mike's East Texas "Big H Ranch"? Learn more here: http://www.investorfuel.com/retreat   Property Insurance: Join the largest and most investor friendly property insurance provider in 2 minutes. Free to join, and insure all your flips and rentals within minutes! There is NO easier insurance provider on the planet (turn insurance on or off in 1 minute without talking to anyone!), and there's no 15-30% agent mark up through this platform!  Register here: https://myinvestorinsurance.com/   New Real Estate Investors - How we can work together: Investor Fuel Club (Coaching and Deal Partner Community): Looking to kickstart your real estate investing career? Join our one of a kind Coaching Community, Investor Fuel Club, where you'll get trained by some of the best real estate investors in America, and partner with them on deals! You don't need $ for deals…we'll partner with you and hold your hand along the way! Learn More here: http://www.investorfuel.com/club   —--------------------

Is boycotting American products a patriotic duty, or a luxury belief most Canadians can't afford?In this episode of The Missing Middle, Cara Stern and Mike Moffatt unpack the growing generational divide in Canada, and why older Canadians are far more likely to boycott U.S. products, while younger Canadians are stuck navigating a brutal affordability crisis.After a winter storm destroyed his car, Mike shares why he chose a Canadian-assembled vehicle, and how that decision sparked a bigger question: have certain political stances become “luxury beliefs” that only financially secure Canadians can realistically uphold?The conversation digs into the tension between symbolic nationalism and economic reality, especially for Millennials and Gen Z who feel locked out of housing, squeezed by grocery prices, and shut out of opportunity.From grocery store boycotts to the future of Canada's auto sector, this episode explores what it actually means to be a “good Canadian” in a time of rising costs, political strain, and shifting global alliances.Chapters:00:00 Introduction00:43 The Generational Divide on Canada-U.S. Relations02:03 Why Older Canadians View America Differently Than Gen Z03:04 Why Ethical Shopping is a Luxury04:02 Mike's New Car: A Case Study in Buying Canadian06:21  Defining “Luxury Beliefs” in Economics09:23  Social Judgment and the Ethics of Travel10:21 Should Politicians Fight Trump?11:04 On Carney's Speech in Davos12:47 Searching for Transformative Change in the Canadian EconomyResearch/links:Nanos Poll https://nanos.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/2025-2950-Bloomberg-Nov-Populated-Report-Tariffs-on-US-goods.pdfResearch Co Pollhttps://researchco.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Tables_Tariffs_CAN_05Jun2025.pdfLuxury Beliefshttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Luxury_beliefSpecial Address by Mark Carney, Prime Minister of Canada | World Economic Forum Annual Meeting 2026https://youtu.be/flsgJe8mN-A?si=xJs3huF52ABU-SEZHosted 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.

Why is it so hard to make friends once you leave school? In this episode of The Missing Middle, Cara Stern and Mike Moffatt dive into the "Loneliness Epidemic" and the disappearing concept of the Third Place – those vital social hubs that aren't home (the first place) or work (the second place).From the 1980s mall culture and bowling alleys to the modern era of "convenience-first" coffee shops and endless doomscrolling, we explore why 60% of Canadians feel disconnected from their communities. We also break down the surprising 2025 StatCan data showing that young people (15–24) are significantly lonelier than seniors.In this episode, we discuss:The Zoning Crisis: Why it's literally illegal to build a walkable pub or café in most North American suburbs.The Death of the Comfy Chair: How rising land costs forced businesses to prioritize drive-thrus over community "hangouts."Weak Social Ties: Why interacting with people outside your "bubble" is essential for democracy, your mental health, and your career.Practical Advice: Cara shares her (slightly terrifying) tips for meeting neighbours, and Mike discusses how rec sports saved his social life. Chapters:00:00 The Connectivity Paradox: Why we're lonelier than ever01:40 Youth are lonelier than seniors03:10 The "Doom Scrolling" effect on community connection04:10 What is a "Third Place"? (And why you need one)05:20 The power of "Weak Social Ties"07:34 How Zoning & NIMBYism killed our local hangouts12:18 Can Digital Communities Replace Physical Ones?14:58 High Land Costs Make Everything Worse17:08 Practical Advice: How to Build Community Today20:41 The Senior Discount Problem: Why cities are ignoring youth isolation22:10 How to Push Past Rejection & Find Your PeopleResearch/links:Six in Ten Canadians Surveyed Have Little or No Sense of Community, New YMCA Research Revealshttps://www.ymcagta.org/news/Six-in-Ten-Canadians-Surveyed-Have-Little-or-No-Sense-of-CommunityChurch Closures and the Loss of Community Social Capitalhttps://carleton.ca/panl/wp-content/uploads/Church-Closures-and-the-Loss-of-Community-Social-Capital-By-Don-McRae-March-2023.pdfWhere Have All the Great, Good Places Gone?: The Decline of the “Third Place”https://www.mironline.ca/where-have-all-the-great-good-places-gone-the-decline-of-the-third-place/Third places, true citizen spaceshttps://courier.unesco.org/en/articles/third-places-true-citizen-spacesBrands should provide “third places” to help Canadians feel connected: https://strategyonline.ca/2024/11/11/citizen-relations-report-third-places/The Hidden Health Crisis: Understanding Loneliness in Canadahttps://blog.theralist.ca/the-hidden-health-crisis-understanding-loneliness-in-canada/Why your ‘weak-tie' friendships may mean more than you thinkhttps://www.bbc.com/worklife/article/20200701-why-your-weak-tie-friendships-may-mean-more-than-you-thinkHosted 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.

Turner Construction was paying for specialist AI software. Then they ditched it for ChatGPT and it did 85% of the job. The founder they left behind says he's not even surprised.In this episode of Bricks, Bucks & Bytes, Owen, Patric, and Martin are joined by Luigi La Corte, CEO of Provision, for an unfiltered conversation about what AI is really doing to construction software  and who's about to get left behind. Plus, two founder call-ins you don't want to miss: Bertrand from Billdr reveals that 75% of SMB general contractors are still running their business on Excel in 2026, and Jodok walks us through how he secured a $1.2 billion debt facility to green Europe's homes.Here's what we get into:Why contract review software is being commoditized to zero — and which tools are nextTurner Construction ditching specialist AI software for OpenAI's "good enough" enterprise packageLuigi's bold claim that AGI is already here (and why he's running it from his couch via Telegram for $60/month)Patric's multi-lens take on AI: "excited as a consumer, terrified as a citizen"The Anthropic safety chief quitting to study poetry and why that should concern everyoneBilldr's pivot from a $40M marketplace to vertical SaaS, and the brute-force sales motion that's actually workingHow Jodok went from a $5M lending facility to $1.2 billion in under three years"The technological swell is here. Most leaders are just swimming, enjoying the sun, making money, business as usual. A few are paddling hard towards the swell. It feels like a lot of effort with no results, but when the wave breaks, the ones paddling will separate from everyone else at a pace no one else could catch."If you're in construction and not paying attention to AI right now, this episode will tell you exactly why you should be. Watch the full episode on YouTube. Link in the comments!Chapters00:00 Intro00:52 Introduction to Luigi La Corte and Industry Insights 03:30 AI in Construction: Scope Agent and Its Impact 06:27 Navigating Contract Review Tools in the AI Era 09:20 The Future of AI: Perspectives and Predictions 12:20 Diverse Sentiments on AI: Consumer vs. Societal Impact 14:37 AGI: Is It Already Here?  22:19 The Future of AI and Productivity 24:11 Concerns About AGI and Its Implications 25:26 The Impact of AI on Human Experience 26:37 Recursive Self-Improvement and Its Risks 27:48 Billdr's Journey and Market Positioning 37:55 The Demand for All-in-One Solutions in Construction Tech 40:01 The Evolution of General Contractors and Their Needs41:22 The Future of Administrative Tasks in Construction 42:35 Addressing the Missing Middle in Construction Companies 44:15 Financing the Energy Transition: ClueWorth's Approach 46:48 Scaling Operations in a Fragmented Market 54:06 Navigating Complexity in Energy Installations 58:04 Revenue Models and Future Growth Strategies

Send a text2026-2028 GTA Market Outlook According to CMHC - Jordan Nanowski00:00 Welcome + CMHC Forecast Episode Setup (2026–2028 Focus)01:38 Meet Jordan Nanowski: CMHC's GTA Lead Economist03:46 What CMHC Economists Actually Do (Forecasting vs. Programs)04:44 How the Forecast Is Built: Models, Stakeholders & Scenario Risks07:57 The Big Macro Wildcard: USMCA/Tariffs & Uncertainty Across Canada13:25 Why the GTA Is Different: Pandemic-Era Perfect Storm16:00 Condo Supply Glut, Investor Math & The Future of Small Units20:44 Report Takeaways: Slow Growth, Construction Labor Cycles & ‘Supply Kinks'27:03 Foreign Buyer Ban & Policy Levers: Why Investment Pulled Back27:53 Pandemic Rate Cuts, Inflation Tradeoffs & Immigration Balancing Act30:34 GTA Forecast: 2026 Price Bottom, 2027 Recovery & Condo Domino Effects34:12 Downside Risks: Trade Uncertainty (CUSMA) as the Big Forecast Driver36:05 Developer Playbook: Stress-Testing PBRs & Missing Middle for the Next 3 Years38:05 Rental Market Reality Check: Vacancy, Rent Assumptions & Migration Shifts41:32 Leading Indicators to Watch: Inventory, Starts, Completions & Permits46:12 Wrap-Up: Nation-Building Optimism, Magic Wand Wish & Resilience Ahead#RealEstate #HousingMarket #RealEstateDevelopment #UrbanDevelopment #CityBuilding #MissingMiddle #InfillDevelopment #PurposeBuiltRental #Multifamily For more information, please refer to RealEstateDevelopmentInsights.com Take our Free Assessment at: DevelopmentReadinessAssessment.com

84% of hotel guests rely on online reviews when booking. Only 4% regularly post them. So who is really shaping your hotel's reputation? In this episode of Feedback Matters, Jeff and Rich explore the results of GuestInsight's December 2025 U.S. consumer survey of hotel guests — and uncover a major disconnect between how guests consume feedback and how they contribute it. We discuss: •Why 72% say surveys are important — but only 24% frequently complete them •The persistent “ones and fives” polarity problem •Why the “missing middle” rarely speaks up •The friction behind low review participation •Whether post-stay emails should match your hotel's brand positioning •What this means for response rates, reputation accuracy, and revenue If most travelers rely on online reviews — but those reviews reflect only a tiny fraction of guests — are hotels being judged by a representative sample? Watch to understand what's changed, what hasn't, and what hoteliers should be doing about it.

Kusi Hornberger on reimagining the Missing Middle with Impact-First Investing In this episode of Line of Sight, Partner and Global Knowledge Lead of Dalberg Advisors, Kusi Hornberger, shares how his path into impact investing evolved into a deeper conviction: that capital can be a force for social and economic change. Now based in Washington, DC, a city that sits at the heart of global policy and finance, Kusi brings a unique perspective on how public systems and private capital intersect, shaping markets whether we support them or challenge them. We explore the “missing middle,” the overlooked small and growing enterprises with the potential to drive outsized impact, and how sustainable impact structures can bridge critical financing gaps. It's a thoughtful conversation on reimagining capital so that smaller organizations are empowered to create change at the same scale as much larger institutions

Growth is coming. The question is: Will we shape it—or will it shape us?In a recent episode spotlighting the upcoming Signature Series, community leaders outlined a year-long conversation that could shape the future of Prescott, Prescott Valley, and greater Yavapai County.At the center of the discussion? Housing, planning, open space, and water—four issues that touch every resident, whether you've lived here for decades or just arrived.#arizona #prescottvalley #prescott #growth #yavapaicounty #signatureseries #fainsignaturegroupF1RST2KNOW is part of the CAST11 Podcast Network of Prescott. Check out the podcast network website with ALL the shows at: https://CAST11.com Follow the CAST11 Podcast Network on Facebook at: https://Facebook.com/CAST11AZFollow Cast11 Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/cast11_podcast_network

Canada's housing ladder is broken. In this episode of Missing Middle, Sabrina Maddeaux and Mike Moffatt explain why the starter home no longer works and how an entire generation has been locked out of moving up.They compare buying a detached home in 2004 for $168,000 with today's reality, where condos fail as a first step and buyers are trapped with no clear path forward. The conversation explores how this breakdown affects family formation, careers, ambition, and Canada's economic future.=If homeownership feels impossible, this episode explains why and why it matters.Do you still believe the starter home works, or has the housing ladder completely collapsed where you live?Chapters:00:00 — What “Buying Your First Home” Used to Look Like00:40 — Mike's First House: A Brand-New Detached Home… as a “Starter”01:47 — Why That Dream Is Gone for Today's Buyers02:29 — What “Starter Home” Means Now vs. Then05:23 — “Aging Out” of the Starter Home07:03 — Trapped in a Condo09:58 — The “Second-Time Buyer Problem” Explained11:09 — Housing, Birth Rates, and Canada's Demographic Crisis13:37 — Careers Limited by Real Estate, Not Talent18:45 — Why Politicians Are Getting This WrongResearch links:Teranet Market Insights Q1 2025National Bank Housing Affordability MonitorCMHC Housing Market Outlook 2025CMHC Housing Supply Report 2025Royal LePage House Price Survey and Market ForecastStatistics Canada - Homeownership and Mortgage Debt of Tax FilersCIBC Economics - Housing Affordability ReportsHosted 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.

Jennifer Louie Oon, Senior Vice President, Sales at DAX United States, shares her non-linear career path, why audio remains underfunded, and how premium ad-supported audio can unlock scale, measurement, and growth for brands and publishers. Takeaways Audio is underfunded largely due to education gaps and outdated measurement models. The missing middle in audio leaves key demos and local markets underserved. Host-read ads remain valuable because trust and opt-in listening drive attention. Expanding audio reach improves effectiveness beyond a few major streaming platforms. Better measurement will push audio spend closer to its share of daily consumer time. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Jennifer Louie Oon and her background in audio 02:20 Building a career by prioritizing learning over titles 07:50 The missing middle problem in audio advertising 11:30 Why audio budgets lag behind TV and social 14:50 Why host-read ads continue to perform 18:00 Programmatic audio and reducing friction for creators 21:30 What measurement changes mean for audio's future Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Canada's housing crisis. Youth unemployment. Immigration debates. A broken healthcare system.What if we told you a book published in 1996 predicted almost all of it?In this episode of The Missing Middle, Cara Stern and Mike Moffatt revisit the Canadian classic Boom, Bust & Echo to explore how demographics, especially the aging of the baby boomers, reshaped Canada's economy, housing market, job prospects, and public policy.We break down:• Why youth unemployment was a policy choice• How demographics quietly drive housing prices• What governments got right — and very wrong• Why immigration policy, real estate, and healthcare are deeply connected• And how Canada ended up with a generational economic imbalanceThis isn't just history. It explains why life is harder for young Canadians today and what choices led us here.If you care about housing affordability, jobs, immigration, public policy, and Canada's economic future, this episode is for you.Chapters:00:00 Introduction00:49 Why Boom, Bust, and Echo (BBE) still matters03:00 What the book got right and wrong04:25 Prediction about the rise of home health care06: 06 Policy dilemma: high demand for PSWs & balancing budgets08:12 Immigration policy advice from Boom, Bust and Echo09:03 Governments didn't take the advice 10:55 BBE real estate prediction11:45 Housing market predictions: what went wrong15:10 Boomers, Millennials & real estate16:40 BBE prediction on future changes to taxation policy17:13 The politics of moving taxation from income to capital19:50 Real estate prediction for aging boomers20:34 Naturally occurring retirement communities23:40 Following where people actually live24:47 Demographics are facts that help us understand the future  Research/links:Boom, Bust & Echo: How to Profit from the Coming Demographic Shifthttps://www.amazon.ca/Boom-bust-echo-profit-demographic/dp/0921912978David Foot on Aging Society & Youthhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gy7y2w9i_aAWhat David Foot didn't tell ushttps://www.theglobeandmail.com/life/what-david-foot-didnt-tell-us/article784233/Finding Naturally Occurring Retirement Communities - Agenda segmenthttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ynlwpsye2c0Hosted 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, Mike Moffatt and Sabrina Maddeaux dig into why homeownership for Canadians under 40 has fallen off a cliff. Spoiler: it's not just zoning, NIMBYs, or avocado toast. The federal government plays a much bigger role in today's housing mess than it likes to admit.They break down how rapid population growth collided with a massive slowdown in building family-sized homes, why “dog-crate condos” became the default housing plan, and how taxes, development charges, and investors quietly push prices even higher. They also ask the uncomfortable question: do first-time buyer programs actually help young people — or just lock in high prices?From down payments that feel impossible, to policies that accidentally reward investors over families, this episode gets into what's broken, who benefits, and what Ottawa could actually do if it wanted to bring the dream of homeownership back to life.If you've ever wondered how Canada managed to make buying a home feel impossible — this one's for you.00:00 – Intro: Is the dream of homeownership dead?01:08 – The Federal Role: Debunking the "Provincial Responsibility" trope01:58 – How Federal immigration and monetary policy impact housing04:12 – A Blueprint to Restore Homeownership: The 4 big hurdles06:30 – Not All Units are Equal10:22 – How Population Growth Affects Supply and Demand12:06 – Time to Reduce Taxes on Homes14:05 – Making It Easier for First-Time Buyers16:14 – Will these Policies just Drive Prices Up?17:59 – The "Second-Time Buyer" crisis and downsizing seniors21:09 – Incentivizing Seniors to Downsize22:00 - Getting investors out of single-family homes: The MURB planResearch/LinksA Blueprint to Restore Homeownership for Young Canadianshttps://www.missingmiddleinitiative.ca/p/a-blueprint-to-restore-homeownershipThe Quiet Death of the Investor Condo? MURBs May Change the Gamehttps://www.missingmiddleinitiative.ca/p/the-quiet-death-of-the-investor-condoHow to get single family homes out of the hands of investorshttps://www.thestar.com/opinion/contributors/this-is-how-the-government-can-get-single-family-homes-out-of-the-hands-of/article_0f92b0f4-e67e-4a84-aa62-2c9316492363.htmlHosted 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.

Send us a text“Small t” and “big T” are common trauma terms meant to validate, but they can also trigger comparison, minimisation, or shame. In this episode, you'll learn what these labels usually mean, why they sometimes backfire, and how to replace ranking with a more compassionate, nervous-system-based framework. You'll also get a simple reframe list (cumulative, relational, chronic vs single-incident, acute) and a short grounding practice to help your system step out of comparison and back into the present.In this episode, you'll learnWhat people typically mean by big T and small t traumaWhy the “missing middle” matters (quiet, chronic, relational stress that still shapes the nervous system)How comparison keeps people stuck: “It wasn't bad enough” vs “I'm permanently damaged”A clearer alternative to ranking: impact + support + recoveryPolyvagal-informed understanding of why the nervous system doesn't rank events “on paper”A short, safe-for-most grounding practice focused on validation and present-moment safetyGentle remindersTrauma isn't a competition, and you don't need to justify your pain to deserve support.If you feel activated or numb while listening, that's a nervous system response; pause anytime.Check the website for free resources available to both those affected by trauma and those supporting them.What's nextNext episode: Before Words: Understanding Preverbal Trauma We'll explore how the body can carry trauma from experiences that happened before you had language and how to work with it gently.Support the show

From breath mints and car break-ins to bouncers at the Rogers store, urban life is starting to feel a lot more “on alert.” In this episode of The Missing Middle, Mike Moffatt and Sabrina Maddeaux examine the rise of crime and disorder in our cities, as well as the disturbing data behind transit violence. However, this isn't just about safety; it's about the future of our neighbourhoods. If people don't feel safe on the streetcar or the sidewalk, can we ever truly build the dense, walkable, “missing middle” communities Canada so desperately needs?This surge in disorder acts as a "hidden tax" on urban living, forcing residents to choose between the convenience of the city and the perceived security of the suburbs. By analyzing these shifts, we uncover how a lack of safety might be the biggest hurdle yet to solving our housing goals.Chapters:00:00 Introduction: Crime, Disorder, and the Future of Cities00:50 Car Break-ins and Security Measures04:23 Personal Experiences on the Streetcar05:02 By the Numbers: Rising Assaults on Canadian Transit07:07 Why Density Requires Public Trust09:00 Why Spouting Stats Doesn't Change Minds13:58 The Political Disconnect on Urban Safety16:49 Finding Solutions: Justice Reform and Mental Health18:10 Why "visible progress" matters more than spreadsheetsResearch links:Transit violence rising across Canada — in some cities by nearly 300%Chris Arnande tweetThe Slow-Motion Exodus: How GTA Outmigration Became Ontario's Defining TrendThe Politics of Safety: Why Bail Reform Is Striking a Chord with CanadiansSabrina Maddeaux: Canada's suburban crime surge is exposing years of national security neglectIt's Time to Talk About America's Disorder ProblemRelated reading/listening:OFF THE RAILS: Data exposes crime, mental illness at TTC's track levelMore than 70 per cent of Ontarians feel less safe on transit than a year ago, survey suggestsHomelessness, Social Disorder and Public Transit in Calgary, Canada: Examining perspectives from law enforcement through the lens of critical social theoryHosted 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.

From avocado toast jokes to accusations of entitlement, every generation seems to get its turn in the stereotype spotlight. In this episode of The Missing Middle, economist Mike Moffatt and journalist Cara Stern dig into where these labels come from — and, more importantly, whether generations really do experience the economy differently.They explore how major historical shocks — from the Great Depression and World War II to 9/11, the Great Recession, and the pandemic — shape our values, anxieties, and opportunities. The conversation moves beyond clichés to examine how birth year, cohort size, housing markets, job markets, technology, and public policy combine to create very different economic realities for Boomers, Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z.Chapters:00:00 Introduction00:37 Avocado toast & generational stereotypes03:25 Horriscopes for statistical nerds?04:46 The history of grouping people into generations06:41 Mike's genX and Cara's millennial experiences 13:24 Understanding generational differences15:55 Generation size, power & public Policy19:40 Inherited wealth & pulling the ladder up22:30 The ethos of DemograFixResearch/links:https://marcuse.faculty.history.ucsb.edu/classes/201/articles/27MannheimGenerations.pdfHosted 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.

What if one of the biggest opportunities in rentals isn't short-term or long-term — but everything in between? In this episode of The STR Data Lab, Jamie Lane sits down with Jeff Hurst, CEO of Furnished Finder and former President of Vrbo, to unpack why midterm rentals have quietly become one of the fastest-growing segments in the housing market — and why so many investors still misunderstand them.Drawing on newly released AirDNA data and Furnished Finder's on-the-ground experience, the conversation explores how demand for 30+ day stays has more than doubled since 2019, fueled by relocating families, healthcare professionals, construction crews, academics, and a growing need for flexible living. Jeff explains why midterm rentals aren't just “discounted short-term stays,” but a fundamentally different asset class — with different pricing logic, tenant expectations, and operational realities.From regulation and affordability to investor accessibility and tech gaps, this episode reframes how STR hosts and property managers should think about midterm rentals — not as a fallback, but as a durable, scalable third pillar of the rental economy that's still early in its evolution.You don't want to miss this episode.Key Takeaways You Can Apply TodayMidterm demand is surging: AirDNA data shows stays of 28+ days are up 138% since 2019 — outpacing short-term rental growth by a wide margin.It's a different business model: Midterm rentals price closer to long-term housing, prioritize functionality over flash, and often book one stay at a time with frequent extensions.The strongest demand drivers are practical, not leisure: Think hospitals, universities, construction corridors, and suburban job centers — not vacation hotspots.Lower capital, lower friction investing: Midterm rentals often require less upfront furnishing, fewer turnovers, and significantly less day-to-day management.The category is still early: With limited tech infrastructure and minimal institutional saturation, midterm rentals today resemble short-term rentals circa 2008.Sign up for AirDNA for FREE

Ontario's Greenbelt is often treated as untouchable — but is it actually making the housing crisis worse?In this episode of The Missing Middle, Mike Moffatt and Sabrina Maddeaux tackle the question viewers keep asking: can Ontario build enough family-friendly homes without touching the Greenbelt — and what happens if it doesn't? They unpack how the Greenbelt was sold as a social contract, why governments never delivered the missing middle housing they promised, and how policies meant to stop sprawl may have actually pushed families farther away.The conversation breaks down four realistic paths forward: doing nothing, finally legalizing family-sized infill housing, cutting immigration to ease demand, or partially opening the Greenbelt — and why every option is politically fraught. Along the way, they explain leapfrog sprawl, why condos aren't working for families, and how decades of policy avoidance have left young Canadians priced out and disillusioned.If you care about housing affordability, family-friendly neighborhoods, or the future of Ontario's cities, this episode lays out the uncomfortable trade-offs politicians keep avoiding.Chapters:00:00 – Introduction00:47 – The Most Common Audience Question01:50 – Is the Greenbelt Politically Untouchable Now?05:23 – The Greenbelt's Broken Social Contract10:05 – What Families Actually Need in a Home11:35 – How the Greenbelt Makes Sprawl Worse14:00 – Has Anyone Studied Greenbelt Sprawl?15:00 – Four Options for Housing vs the Greenbelt15:53 - Option 1: Do Nothing18:31 – Option 2: Fix Housing Without Expansion23:48 – Option 3: Cutting Immigration27:15 – Option 4: Opening the Greenbelt29:55 – What's Most Likely to Happen Next?Research/links:Mike's tweethttps://x.com/MikePMoffatt/status/1991593178085142851?s=20London's Garden Belt:https://x.com/JenMTreadwell/status/2001256081188905271?s=20The Welfare Effects of Greenbelt Policy: Evidence from Englandhttps://academic.oup.com/ej/article/134/657/363/7276598Green Belts: Past; present; future?https://www.routledge.com/Green-Belts-Past-present-future/Sturzaker-Mell/p/book/9781138339392Hosted 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.

We're back with the sixth installment of our Missing Middle in Climate Tech series, produced in partnership with Spring Lane Capital.As we kick off 2026, this episode offers a timely, grounded conversation with two seasoned investors who bring decades of perspective to where climate investing has been and where it's headed next. Rather than focusing on predictions alone, the discussion goes deeper into the nuance of how capital is actually being deployed in today's market.Rob Day, Co-Founder of Spring Lane Capital, and Raj Atluru, Managing Partner at Activate Capital, trade ideas and reflect on how the climate tech landscape has evolved.Together, they unpack how investor priorities have shifted over time, the metrics they look for in growth-stage companies, and the opportunities emerging from today's macro forces, including interest rates, deglobalization, and AI's rapidly escalating energy demand.For listeners looking to understand how experienced investors are navigating complexity, risk, and scale in climate tech right now, this is a conversation worth spending time with.Explore the full Missing Middle in Climate Tech series or reach out with ideas for future collaborations at investedinclimate.com. On today's episode, we cover:02:20 – Guest Intros & The “Missing Middle” Problem04:39 – A Second Lens on the Missing Middle07:00 – Origin Story of Activate Capital10:40 – Energy, Load Growth & Macro Shifts12:09 – “Why Now?” and Today's Load Shock17:27 – Structural Causes of the Missing Middle19:26 – Heavy Lifting at Growth Stage25:43 – Hardware Is Back: Fund III Themes30:16 – Scaling, Learning Curves & Project Execution33:00 – From Founder-Led to Scalable Sales40:13 – Being Contrarian (EVs, AI & Hype Cycles)43:57 – EV Fundamentals & Infrastructure Gaps45:15 – Policy vs. Interest Rates47:55 – Home Electrification & Rooftop Solar48:06 – Speed-Round Predictions for 202649:26 – Dry Powder & Exit Fuel51:50 – Climate Tech Becomes “Just Tech”53:06 – Closing & Call to...

In this special Ask Me Anything episode of The Missing Middle, the full team answers your biggest viewer questions on housing, transit, immigration, and affordability — and we share a major announcement about the future of the podcast. We also introduce our newest team member and talk candidly about why this work hits close to home for so many Canadians.The conversation dives into walkable neighbourhoods and small businesses, why governments struggle to act on housing affordability, the taboo around discussing immigration and housing together, transit as a pressure valve for urban sprawl, and why seniors are stuck in family-sized homes. Plus, we explain what's changing on the show, including two new weekly episodes, DemograFix and Classonomics, and what it means for listeners going forward.Chapters00:00 Ask Me Anything 2025 and look ahead00:45 Meet our editor/technical producer Sean Foreman03:01 Introducing the new podcast DemograFix03:52 Introducing Classonomics04:16 You don't need to do anything, we promise

Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions. When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, LG or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.Devin: What is your superpower?Robert: If I find out something isn't quite optimized from a building science perspective, I can't just leave it.Affordable housing has become one of the most pressing challenges in cities across the United States, and Chicago is no exception. With a housing shortage driving up prices, Robert Linn, Principal of Point B Properties, is taking an innovative approach to address the crisis while also prioritizing sustainability and health.In today's episode, Robert shared insights into his latest project—a conversion of a two-flat building into a three-flat under Chicago's ADU ordinance. This ordinance allows developers to add units to existing buildings, increasing the housing supply without tearing down older structures. “Chicago right now has a massive undersupply of multifamily housing,” Robert explained. “What we're doing by going in and taking this two-flat and making it a three-flat is helping keep that supply up. As anyone with kind of a basic knowledge of supply and demand knows, if we keep increasing supply, then prices are going to come down.”But Robert's work goes far beyond simply adding more units. He's also focused on making homes healthier and more energy-efficient. For instance, he uses energy recovery ventilators (ERVs) in his projects to improve indoor air quality while conserving energy. “A big focus for me, I would consider an easy win, is air quality,” he said. “We make sure that we pay really good attention to how the property is sealed and then invest extra in ventilation.”Robert also highlighted the importance of proper insulation to prevent issues like mold, which can develop when warm, humid air condenses inside walls. “You could build a building with zero insulation, and no one would be the wiser until your walls are really cold,” he noted. His commitment to detail ensures that his buildings are not only comfortable but also environmentally friendly and cost-effective for residents.What makes this project even more exciting is its funding model. Robert is raising capital through Small Change, a regulated investment crowdfunding platform that allows ordinary people to invest in impact-driven real estate projects. “It's nice to have something more formal to offer to the public in a really structured way,” Robert said, emphasizing the democratizing power of crowdfunding.By blending affordability, sustainability, and healthy living, Robert's work exemplifies how developers can meet critical housing needs while addressing broader challenges like climate change. I encourage you to visit Small Change to learn more about his inspiring Richmond Revival project. Together, we can support initiatives that make a real difference in our communities.tl;dr:Robert Linn's latest project converts a two-flat Chicago building into a three-flat under the ADU ordinance.Robert prioritizes healthy, energy-efficient housing using techniques like proper insulation and energy recovery ventilators.Chicago's housing shortage drives Robert's mission to preserve and expand affordable multifamily housing.He's raising funds for the Richmond Revival project via Small Change, democratizing investment opportunities.Robert's superpower, “constructive discontent,” pushes him to improve housing quality and solve problems creatively.How to Develop Constructive Discontent As a SuperpowerRobert described his superpower as “constructive discontent,” explaining how his refusal to accept subpar solutions drives him to continuously improve his projects. “If I find out something isn't quite optimized from a building science perspective, I can't just leave it,” he said. This mindset leads him to prioritize details like air quality, proper insulation, and energy efficiency, ensuring that the homes he develops are healthier, more sustainable, and more affordable for residents.During today's episode, Robert shared an example of how he used his constructive discontent to improve window installation on his latest project. When his general contractor dismissed best practices as “too complicated,” Robert took matters into his own hands by assigning the task to his crew. He provided them with a video outlining proper installation techniques, ensuring that the windows met his exacting standards. This hands-on approach reflects Robert's commitment to excellence, even when it means going the extra mile.Tips for Developing Constructive Discontent:Don't normalize annoyance—identify things that could be better and explore ways to improve them.Invest in tools or resources, like air quality monitors, to identify hidden problems in your environment.Learn best practices in your field and hold yourself accountable to implement them consistently.Surround yourself with a team you trust to execute your vision when others fall short.By following Robert's example and advice, you can make constructive discontent a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileRobert Linn (he/him):Principal, Point B PropertiesAbout Point B Properties: Point B Properties is a Chicago-based, vertically integrated real estate development firm focused on the “Missing Middle”—the essential workforce housing that institutional funds ignore and small flippers can't handle. Unlike traditional developers who rely on brokers, we utilize a proprietary direct-to-seller sourcing engine to identify off-market, value-add opportunities in high-growth Midwest corridors. We combine this sourcing advantage with rigorous architectural engineering to create “Healthy Buildings”—spaces designed to improve resident well-being through superior air quality and non-toxic materials. Crucially, we are committed to democratizing real estate wealth; through platforms like SmallChange.co, we open our deals to everyday investors, allowing them to co-invest alongside accredited partners.Website: pointbproperties.comCompany Facebook Page: facebook.com/PointBPropertiesInstagram Handle: @pointbprop Other URL: smallchange.co/projects/richmondrevivalBiographical Information: Robert is an innovative real estate professional and developer whose passion for the industry was sparked in his family's woodshop during his childhood. His journey is underpinned by a solid educational foundation, having earned a dual degree in Architecture and Engineering from the University of Michigan.Robert's career began in the niche field of ship design, dovetailing into consulting where he was recruited to apply his expertise to real estate. His commitment to continual growth led him to Indiana University on a scholarship, where he further honed his skills with a double major in Finance and Management.During college, Robert embarked on a new adventure by purchasing his first property. This milestone marked the beginning of his entrepreneurial journey, leading to the formation of his own company, all while balancing a full-time job.Robert is not just about building properties; he's about building them right. Recognized for his contributions to energy-efficient building, like constructing the first Green Star certified condo building, he has a keen interest in the evolving landscape of design and building science. His dedication to the field is further exemplified by his LEED certification and his role as one of the early adopters of HERS rated developments.Robert's projects are infused with a unique blend of practical experience, technical expertise, and theoretical knowledge. His approach to each project is informed by this multidimensional perspective, ensuring solutions that are innovative, efficient, and sustainable.LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/in/linnovatingPersonal Facebook Profile: facebook.com/rlinniSupport Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today's advertisers include RISE Robotics, and Crowdfunding Made Simple. Learn more about advertising with us here.Max-Impact Members(We're grateful for every one of these community champions who make this work possible.)Brian Christie, Brainsy | Cameron Neil, Lend For Good | Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | John Berlet, CORE Tax Deeds, LLC. | Justin Starbird, The Aebli Group | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Mark Grimes, Networked Enterprise Development | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Mike Green, Envirosult | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Sharon Samjitsingh, Health Care Originals | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.SuperCrowdHour, January 21, 2026, at 12:00 PM Eastern. Devin Thorpe, CEO and Founder of The Super Crowd, Inc., will lead a session on “From $10 to Impact: How Anyone Can Become an Impact Investor.” Drawing on his experience as an investment banker, impact investor, and community-building leader, Devin will explain how everyday people can start investing small amounts to support mission-driven companies while pursuing financial returns. In this session, he'll break down the basics of regulated investment crowdfunding, show how impact and profit can align, and share practical steps for identifying opportunities that create real-world change. As an added benefit, attendees can become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd for just $4.58 per month to receive an exclusive private Zoom meeting invitation with Devin, free tickets to paid SuperCrowd events, and the opportunity to directly support social entrepreneurs, community builders, and underrepresented founders.SuperGreen Live, January 22–24, 2026, livestreaming globally. Organized by Green2Gold and The Super Crowd, Inc., this three-day event will spotlight the intersection of impact crowdfunding, sustainable innovation, and climate solutions. Featuring expert-led panels, interactive workshops, and live pitch sessions, SuperGreen Live brings together entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, and activists to explore how capital and climate action can work hand in hand. With global livestreaming, VIP networking opportunities, and exclusive content, this event will empower participants to turn bold ideas into real impact. Don't miss your chance to join tens of thousands of changemakers at the largest virtual sustainability event of the year. Learn more about sponsoring the event here. Interested in speaking? Apply here. Support our work with a tax-deductible donation here.Demo Day at SuperGreen Live. Apply now to present at the SuperGreen Live Demo Day session on January 22! The application window is closing soon; apply today at 4sc.fun/sgdemo. The Demo Day session is open to innovators in the field of climate solutions and sustainability who are NOT currently raising under Regulation Crowdfunding.Live Pitch at SuperGreen Live. Apply now to pitch at the SuperGreen Live—Live Pitch on January 23! The application window closes January 5th; apply today at s4g.biz/sgapply. The Live Pitch is open to innovators in the field of climate solutions and sustainability who ARE currently raising under Regulation Crowdfunding.SuperCrowd Impact Member Networking Session: Impact (and, of course, Max-Impact) Members of the SuperCrowd are invited to a private networking session on January 27th at 1:30 PM ET/10:30 AM PT. Mark your calendar. We'll send private emails to Impact Members with registration details.Community Event CalendarSuccessful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.Join UGLY TALK: Women Tech Founders in San Francisco on January 29, 2026, an energizing in-person gathering of 100 women founders focused on funding strategies and discovering SuperCrowd as a powerful alternative for raising capital.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 10,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.Manage the volume of emails you receive from us by clicking here.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe

It has been just 18 months since British Columbia launched Bill 44—the Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing (SSMUH) initiative—and already the landscape of urban development in the province has shifted in ways few could have predicted. Hundreds of multiplex permit applications have been submitted across B.C., the first wave of completed projects is beginning to emerge, and municipalities that once resisted density are now formally adopting the provincial framework. Just this week, the City of North Vancouver officially passed its zoning amendments, opening the door to multiplex development across one of the most land-constrained communities in the region.On paper, this all signals momentum. But in practice, the path to delivering “Missing Middle” housing has proven far more complex.Nowhere is that tension clearer than in Burnaby—one of the earliest and most enthusiastic adopters of Bill 44, and now one of the loudest voices pushing back. Residents have raised concerns about scale, height, setbacks, and parking. And in response, the city has revised its bylaws, reducing allowable height, shrinking lot coverage, expanding setbacks, and increasing parking requirements. These changes may soothe neighbourhood discomfort, but they also directly affect the number of new homes that can realistically be built. We also get into a new, one of a kind single family project launch in Burnaby that is uniquely suited for downsizers and/or growing families.To help us understand what all of this means—not just for Burnaby, but for housing supply across the entire Lower Mainland—we're joined by someone at the forefront of multiplex development: Bill Laidler. Bill is a leader in the Missing Middle space, with more than 400 homes in development. He is a developer, educator, and one of the most articulate advocates for creating generational housing—helping grandparents live near their grandkids, while unlocking attainable ownership for young families. His previous two appearances on this channel are among our most viewed ever.Today, Bill walks us through the real impacts of Bill 44 so far: what's working, what isn't, and how recent municipal pushback could reshape the next decade of housing supply. We discuss the political friction between provincial goals and municipal authority, examine the Burnaby bylaw changes in detail, and explore whether multiplexes can meaningfully improve affordability—or risk becoming another high-priced, low-yield form of stratified ownership.We also dive into the biggest challenges affecting feasibility today: high construction costs, stricter parking requirements, and the difficulty builders face securing financing for small-scale multi-unit projects. Bill offers candid insight into which barriers matter most—and what practical solutions could unlock real progress.Finally, Bill shares a behind-the-scenes look at some of Laidler's upcoming multiplex communities and how they aim to set a new standard for livability, design, and family-oriented density.If you're wondering where the future of multi-family real estate investment is going and you want to understand where Missing Middle housing is truly headed—this is a conversation you won't want to miss. _________________________________ Contact Us To Book Your Private Consultation:

What happens when a planner stops following broken rules and starts rewriting them instead? Brad Callender, director of planning and zoning for Monroe, Georgia, legalized the housing people actually need. Duplexes and backyard cottages are now popping up across town. He joins Norm today to explain how he did it as a department of one. ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES Brad Callender (LinkedIn) Norm Van Eeden Petersman (LinkedIn) Do you know someone who would make for a great Bottom-Up Revolution guest? Let us know here!   This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

We're back with another episode in our series on the Missing Middle in Climate Tech in partnership with Spring Lane Capital. This is the fifth episode in the series. If you didn't catch the others, check out InvestedinClimate.com/series and you'll find our other episodes. If you have ideas for other series and would like to partner, get in touch through the website as well.The missing middle is a structural problem – a lack not only of available capital for climate companies, but also of the kinds of firms able to invest in them. New firms with new types of investment mandates are needed, and so I was thrilled to learn about a new fund called All Aboard. It's a truly innovative firm developed by someone who has long had his finger on the pulse of the world's biggest problems and boldest solutions. If you've ever watched a TED Talk you probably know Chris Anderson, who has led TED for the last 25 years. Chris is probably one of the best networked people on the planet, and that he decided to focus on building a new fund designed to address the missing middle in climate finance speaks volumes. Spring Lane Capital Partner and Entrepreneur in Residence Jason Scott gets credit for putting together this episode and joins us in what was a truly fascinating conversation. All Aboard reflects the type of creativity and ambition needed to fill a critical climate finance gap, and I think we all hope their model inspires you in some way. Enjoy.On today's episode, we cover:0:03:31 – Chris explains his shift to climate investing and TED's climate initiatives0:04:53 – Setting the stage: The funding gap in climate tech0:05:23 – Jason describes the three buckets of the "missing middle" and All Aboard fund's mission0:09:33 – Exploring the structural capital problem in the energy transition and limitations of current financial markets0:11:16 – Chris & Jason discuss scale challenges and why current investment models fall short for climate solutions0:14:12 – Impact of collaboration in the climate investing community, with examples from Spring Lane and All Aboard0:16:57 – Chris describes All Aboard: how convening and pooling investors can solve the missing middle0:22:42 – The role of “social proof,” building momentum and ecosystems around climate ventures0:25:12 – Fundraising goals for All Aboard and the scale of opportunity in climate tech0:29:00 – Recognizing growth and potential exits for climate companies; learning from historical performance0:31:14 – How companies may become eligible for All Aboard, criteria for selection, and the practical mechanics of funding0:34:51 – The necessity of both capital and sustained support for scaling climate solutions0:36:30 – Vision for the future: If All Aboard succeeds, expectations for climate tech and financial markets0:37:54 – Other approaches and financial innovations to address the missing middle0:40:24 – The role of government and public-private partnerships in de-risking and scaling clean tech0:42:56 – Closing remarksResources MentionedAll AboardSpring Lane CapitalInvested in Climate – Missing Middle seriesTED and TED Countdown

This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.----------------------------------------The All Aboard Coalition is a collaborative investment fund created by a group of established venture capital and private equity firms. It aims to raise $300 million by October and begin investing before the end of the year.Unlike early-stage seed funds, this one focuses on companies that already have validated technology and are now ready to expand into full-scale production.It will make equity or convertible equity investments between $100 million and $200 million per company.In simple terms, the All Aboard Coalition is positioning itself to fill the funding gap between early venture capital and large infrastructure financing, helping climate companies move from concept to commercial scale.Read full breakdown. ----------------------------------------Investing in Impact is powered by PIF Advisory — a global services firm empowering startups and enterprises with expert guidance, tailored solutions, and measurable results. Whether you're launching your first venture or scaling globally, PIF Advisory delivers full-cycle support across every core function of your business:Bookkeeping, Accounting & Tax Management – Organized, compliant, and transparent financials managed by licensed professionals (CPAs, CFAs, CMAs, and lawyers) to drive smarter decision-making.Growth & Marketing – Data-driven strategies across branding, web, advertising, CRM, and sales enablement—all optimized for measurable ROI.Outsourced CFO – Flexible financial leadership covering cash flow, forecasting, and strategic planning.Entity Management – Stay compliant and ready for scale with expert corporate governance and compliance support.Operations, HR & Admin – Streamlined infrastructure to boost team efficiency and keep your business running smoothly.IT & Security – Safeguard your data and operations with best-in-class infrastructure, compliance, and protection.Technology Consulting – Build the right tech stack with expert support across NetSuite, QuickBooks, Avalara, and more.Management Consulting – Unlock growth with industry-specific advisory services focused on metrics, operations, and scalability.As a sister company to PIF Capital Management, they also offer clients direct insights into venture capital and access to a global investor network—ranging from individuals to sovereign wealth funds.

The National Security Hour with Blanquita Cullum – Is there a voice for the “Missing Middle”? Is it disloyal to disagree with your “Party” of choice or those Media Broadcasters who are identified with an extreme version of that political party? Is it for clicks? Ratings? Views? Outspoken Globalists, Racists, Communists, Anti or Pro a political leader-- Is it finally time to speak out even if those spokespersons are...

The National Security Hour with Blanquita Cullum – Is there a voice for the “Missing Middle”? Is it disloyal to disagree with your “Party” of choice or those Media Broadcasters who are identified with an extreme version of that political party? Is it for clicks? Ratings? Views? Outspoken Globalists, Racists, Communists, Anti or Pro a political leader-- Is it finally time to speak out even if those spokespersons are...

Why has the profession of optometry had such a complicated relationship with VCPs (vision care plans) over the years? Some practice owners love them. Others despise them. Some practices are on all the panels. Some have intentionally jettisoned themselves from every plan and gone out of network entirely. On this episode, which in a way serves as a follow-up discussion to my conversation with Dr. Chris Smiley, OD (link in the show notes), Dr. Pete Kehoe and I have an engaging and well-rounded discussion about VCPs and the role they can play in running a successful practice—and why it doesn't have to be a choice of embracing VCPs or running a profitable practice. Before we get into today's episode, I want to make something explicitly clear about this conversation: This episode was not sponsored by EyeMed, Pete, or any other entity. I have never—nor will I ever—take a dollar of sponsorship or "pay to play" from a guest. I realize that the profession continues to be divided on this topic, and my singular goal with this episode—and with this show in totality—is to bring the best proven practices, methods, and strategies to help you, the practice owner, run your business as best you can and use the profits from providing value to your patients to ultimately build wealth and achieve financial independence. With that introduction, I hope you enjoy my conversation with Dr. Pete Kehoe, OD. Resources: 20/20 Money Ultimate Financial Success Masterclass OD Mastermind Interest Form Power Hour Episode: Managing Managed Care, Capture Rates and the Missing Middle for Practice Growth with Todd Lossone EyeMed 20/20 Money Episode: Embracing vision plans to profitably grow your practice w/ Dr. Chris Smiley Ted Lasso "Be curious, not judgemental" YouTube clip   ————————————————————————————— Please rate and subscribe to 20/20 Money on these platforms Apple Podcasts Spotify ————————————————————————————— For past episodes of 20/20 Money with full companion show notes, please check out our episode archive here!