The Missing Middle with Mike Moffatt and Sabrina Maddeaux

Are Young People Giving Up on Canada?

Apr 2, 2025

The podcast dives into the housing crisis in Canada, revealing its hidden implications for national security. It highlights how soaring rents stifle economic mobility and drive talent away to the U.S. Young Canadians express deep discontent, feeling abandoned by their country amidst rising living costs and declining happiness. The conversation urges a revamp of housing policies, emphasizing the need for a strategic approach that can secure a brighter future for the younger generation.

24:58

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Episode notes

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Quick takeaways

The housing crisis in Canada not only creates financial instability for young people but also introduces systemic risks to national security and economic resilience.

Many young Canadians feel increasingly alienated from societal structures, leading to frustration and a growing perception that their needs are deprioritized by the government.

Deep dives

Economic Vulnerability Linked to Housing Crisis

The podcast highlights the significant connection between the housing crisis in Canada and the broader national security concerns posed by economic vulnerability. When young Canadians struggle to afford housing, they face heightened financial instability, which can have far-reaching societal implications. This instability can lead to a situation where individuals are unable to take job opportunities in cities with higher living costs, causing a backlog in job mobility and economic productivity. Additionally, when young men perceive a lack of pathways to marriage and family life due to economic constraints, it can result in societal discontent and disengagement from the economic system.

Intro

4min

The Impact of Housing Costs on Economic Mobility in Canada

2min

Young Canadians on the Move

7min

Young Canadians' Economic Struggles

5min

Examining Housing Challenges and Economic Stability for Young Canadians

6min

In this episode, Sabrina Maddeaux and Michael Moffatt discuss the critical intersection of the housing crisis and national security in Canada. They explore how the inability to afford housing not only affects individuals but also poses systemic risks to the Canadian economy and society. The conversation delves into the implications of economic vulnerability, the talent exodus to the U.S., and the growing disconnection among younger generations. They emphasize the urgent need for a cohesive housing policy that addresses these interconnected issues to ensure a stable and resilient future for Canada. (This episode was recorded on Friday March 28th before the Liberals dropped their housing platform.)

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

01:00A hidden national security threat

04:13 High rents are an internal trade barrier

07:08 Talent exodus and economic resilience

12:14 Disconnection and generational frustration

14:31 World happiness index data doesn't bode well for Canada

19:29 Path forward: housing as a national priority

22:15 Sabrina points out we have an episode regarding our last episode on immigration and housing

21:41 A few policy ideas and a call to action

Links for reference:

Young people who can’t afford homes feel betrayed by their country. Why should they stand up against Trump when Canada has let them down?