Kevin Klinkenberg, an urban designer and executive director of Midtown KC Now, dives into the challenges younger generations face in achieving a middle-class lifestyle. He examines rising housing costs, credential inflation, and the ongoing impact of public policy on affordability. The conversation highlights innovative solutions like shared living and accessory dwelling units, while reflecting on a shifting perspective of the American Dream. Klinkenberg also discusses the evolving landscape of higher education, emphasizing the need for adaptation in response to modern demands.