Why You Feel Poorer Every Year: Michael Green Explains the ‘Valley of Death’

In this episode Jordan Steffaniak interviews Michael Green, Chief Strategist at Simplify Asset Management, discussing his essay on the poverty line and economic disparities. They explore the outdated methodology of calculating poverty, the real cost of living, and the implications of rising childcare and housing costs. Green argues for policy changes, including expanding the earned income tax credit, to better support families facing economic challenges. The conversation highlights generational differences in economic experiences and the need for systemic change to address these issues.

Resources:

Michael's Substack Essay: https://www.yesigiveafig.com/p/part-1-my-life-is-a-lie

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Housing Economics and Poverty

02:18 Understanding the Poverty Line Calculation

05:04 The Valley of Death: Economic Implications

09:12 Policy Solutions for Economic Disparities

11:53 Childcare Costs and Economic Strain

15:04 Housing Market Challenges

17:44 Data Points for Understanding Economic Issues

21:47 State-Level Solutions and Economic Mobility

23:04 Generational Economic Differences

28:14 The Role of Education and Awareness

31:04 Concluding Thoughts on Economic Structures