In this enlightening discussion, USC Professor Lisa Ansell dives into the devastating effects of student loan debt on public servants like teachers and firefighters, emphasizing how it traps the middle class in a cycle of renting. Real estate broker John Hoffman adds insights on the affordable housing crisis, highlighting the influence of zoning laws and market dynamics. They advocate for systemic reforms, including stronger bankruptcy protections and community-led housing initiatives, to combat the growing financial strain and emotional toll of these intertwined crises.