In this episode, conservative pundit Sabrina Maddeaux and economist mike Moffatt sit down with housing advocate Eric Lombardi to discuss the epic shortcomings of the community consultation processes in Toronto. Lombardi argues that they often fail to represent the diverse voices and interests of the community. He emphasizes the need for a more proactive approach to community engagement that considers the broader needs of neighborhoods rather than reacting to individual developments. The conversation also touches on the implications of property rights, the role of advocacy groups, and the responsibilities of provincial and federal governments in addressing the housing crisis. Lombardi calls for reforms that would streamline the consultation process and make it more democratic, ultimately advocating for a system that empowers citizens and promotes growth.Chapters00:00 Introduction 01:16 Community consultation 05:30 Flaws with the current consultation processes09:21 The anti-democratic nature of current consultations11:23 Consultation as indirect political corruption13:30  The role of community advocacy14:58 The Tindale example17:20 Property rights and freedoms vs stagnation21:17 Reforming the consultation process23:44 Pitching Doug Ford - the province should set the standard29:07 Provincial responsibilities in housing policy31:59 Development changes - Mike’s favourite topic33:01 Federal housing policy and political capitalResearch and linksMore NeighboursTrevor Tombe: The ‘Great Canadian Slump’ is backGrowth comes to an urban backwaterPlain English with Derek ThompsonAbundance! With Ezra KleinHow Elevator Rules Cost Us Homes: An Interview with Market UrbanismSome examples of public consultations in the news:Vancouver’s public consultation process is being abused, critics sayWhy blanket rezoning has become Calgary's biggest housing controversyJudge sides with city in ruling to uphold blanket rezoning'Neighbourhoods are going to change' — Angry reactions as Windsor speeds up home buildsGuest: Eric Lombardi, https://x.com/EricDLombardiHosted 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.

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.

A gripping discussion unfolds around Canada's new immigration policies and their surprising effects on the housing market. The hosts tackle how reduced immigration targets may worsen housing prices and rents. They express skepticism about the government's ability to achieve these targets, especially with the complexities of regional housing demands. Insights into forecasting housing needs reveal alarming gaps, while political implications surface as young voters voice concerns over affordable homes. It's a heated exploration of immigration, housing, and the politics that bind them.

In a dynamic discussion, the evolving Canadian political polling landscape takes center stage, influenced by pivotal events like Trudeau's exit and Trump's legacy. Demographic shifts reveal a surprising rise in support for the Liberal Party among older voters, while the NDP faces significant challenges. The concept of a precarity mindset emerges as a key theme, reflecting voters' desires for stability. Lastly, the complexities of regional politics in Quebec and predictions for voter turnout set the backdrop for the upcoming federal election.

A deep dive into the widening wage gap between American and Canadian workers reveals alarming trends for young Canadians. The hosts discuss the surge in emigration, particularly among tech talent, and analyze how high housing costs impact wages. They highlight the role of productivity and propose policy changes to address these economic imbalances. Concerns about brain drain are discussed, with a focus on attracting skilled professionals to ensure future growth. Remote work's influence on salary trends also makes for an intriguing conversation.

This conversation dives into the ambitious plans for a high-speed rail connecting major Canadian cities. Experts analyze political motivations behind the chosen routes and the challenges that have historically plagued transit in Canada. They contrast the Canadian approach with Europe's successful rail systems, highlighting critical lessons to be learned. The dialogue also navigates the political landscape's impact on infrastructure decisions, emphasizing the necessity for strategic governance and bold investment to make high-speed rail a reality.

In this conversation, conservative pundit Sabrina Maddeaux, economist Mike Moffatt and producer Meredith Martin discuss the Ontario election, focusing on predictions regarding Doug Ford's (potential) majority win and the lack of competition from opposition parties. They delve into the housing crisis, exploring why it hasn't resonated with voters and the barriers preventing Millennials from engaging in politics. The discussion highlights the impact of economic challenges on political participation and the need for addressing housing issues to foster broader political engagement.Chapters00:00 Introduction00:51 Ontario Election Predictions02:06 Why the housing crisis isn’t resonating with voters05:23 Millennial political participation09:25 High rent as a barrier to political engagement 10:01 Political salaries aren’t rising with inflation Hosted 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.

A deep dive into the federal Liberal leadership race reveals the contenders' stances on the housing crisis. Mark Carney’s vague promises, Chrystia Freeland's tax cuts for first-time buyers, and Karina Gould's generational vision come under scrutiny. The hosts discuss the disconnect between political agendas and the urgent needs of young Canadians. They emphasize the importance of tailored housing policies linking immigration and home affordability while predicting the race's outcome amidst a changing political landscape.

Uncover the mystery of Ontario's $10 billion in unspent infrastructure funds. The discussion highlights how development charges are driving housing prices up, particularly affecting young potential homeowners. Explore the political dynamics at play as municipalities sit on vast reserves while struggling with timely investments. Misleading claims about rising charges spark debate, revealing a stark disconnect between intent and reality. As public awareness grows, the pressure mounts for change in municipal policies impacting housing affordability.

In this episode of the Missing Middle podcast, Sabrina Maddeaux and Mike Moffatt discuss the phenomenon of the 'relationship recession,' exploring its causes, implications for society, and the economic challenges it presents. They delve into how changing social dynamics, economic pressures, and technological advancements are reshaping relationships and family structures, particularly among younger generations. The conversation highlights the impact of these trends on the middle class and the need for policy solutions that address the root causes of declining relationship formation.Chapters:00:00 Introduction01:31 Understanding the relationship recession04:40 Scott Galloway’s theory of men06:28 The role of technology09:05 How much of this is a choice?11:06 Incentives versus structural barriers13:09 Economic implications of relationship trends14:40 The role of unaffordable rents on relationships17:00 the expansion and retraction of personal choiceLinks:The relationship recession is going globalA Few(er) Good MenWhy Americans Suddenly Stopped Hanging OutLoneliness 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.