Jiaying Zhao, an Associate Professor and Canada Research Chair at the University of British Columbia, discusses the revolutionary potential of unconditional cash transfers in tackling homelessness. She highlights her study demonstrating that direct cash transfers can lead to net societal savings over time. Zhao shares insights on the 'cognitive tax' of poverty, revealing how financial stress impacts decision-making. The conversation also challenges stereotypes surrounding homelessness and advocates for more nuanced, evidence-based policy responses to aid vulnerable populations.