Share

cover art for 1448: Why is the Middle Class Disappearing?

So Money with Farnoosh Torabi

1448: Why is the Middle Class Disappearing?

Alissa Quart, the author of several books, including Squeezed: Why Our Families Can’t Afford America, offers insights into her in-depth reporting on economic hardship. We discussed the people who now make up the “middle precariat,” those considered middle-class professionals living a precarious economic life, who are just barely making it, underemployed and/or saddled with debt. We discuss how generations are being squeezed, what inequality looks like and how to build a better future. To listen to Alissa's audio series Going for Broke, click here. For more related content in our "Priced Out" series on CNET Money, click here.

More episodes

View all episodes

  • 1753: How to Create Rich Professional Content and Build a Personal Brand

    37:12|
    In this episode of So Money, I’m joined by Michael Schreiber, award-winning journalist, founder of MediaFeed, and long-time friend. Michael began his career as an award-winning journalist, producing acclaimed documentaries and in-depth reporting on topics like the credit card industry. Today, he’s at the forefront of helping businesses and individuals leverage content to grow their brands and connect with audiences.We explore Michael’s transition from journalist to media entrepreneur and the lessons he’s learned about creating impactful content. He shares strategies for building a personal brand on various platforms, from LinkedIn to YouTube, the power of content syndication, and how businesses can own their narrative without relying on traditional advertising. Plus, we dive into how AI tools like ChatGPT can supercharge your content creation process while saving time. Plus: a sneak peek into a collab between Farnoosh and Michael.
  • 1752: Ask Farnoosh: The Cost of Axing the Dept of Education, Trump’s Market Impact and Is It Too Late to Invest?

    24:22|
    In this episode of Ask Farnoosh: How do you balance saving for your kids’ futures while ensuring your own retirement? Is it too late to start investing in your 60s? Plus, Farnoosh shares her thoughts on whether a Trump presidency could crash the stock market and breaks down the financial risks of dismantling the Department of Education. Join the So Money Members Club.Download Farnoosh's free investing blueprint.Hang out with Farnoosh on Instagram.
  • 1751: Inside the 2024 Election: Polling, Money, and Dividing Opinions on the Economy

    35:44|
    What did the election polling data say, what did it miss, and why were so many people divided on the economy? Guest Farrah Bostic, a brand strategist, researcher, and founder of The Difference Engine, a consultancy that helps entrepreneurs and brands make smarter decisions through deep-dive research and data analysis. She’s also the co-host of In the Demo, a podcast exploring generational differences, and the host of Cross Tabs, which dives into polling and what data can reveal about the decisions we make.Join the So Money Members Club.Download Farnoosh's free investing blueprint.Hang out with Farnoosh on Instagram.
  • 1750: Trump, Climate Change and Smart Ways to Spend, Save and Invest Sustainably

    35:27|
    As the possibility of a second Trump administration looms, there’s growing concern over the future of climate policies. With environmental protection on the chopping block, it’s never been more critical for individuals to take action where they can—through their spending, saving, and investing choices. Today’s conversation with financial author Kara Perez couldn’t come at a better time. Kara is the founder of Bravely Go and the author of her debut book, Green Money, where she offers a roadmap for how we can use our money to create meaningful change, even in the face of policy setbacks. Join the So Money Members Club.Download Farnoosh's free investing blueprint.Hang out with Farnoosh on Instagram.
  • 1749: Ask Farnoosh: How to Navigate Marriage, Money, and Student Loans in Uncertain Times

    37:30|
    In this episode of So Money, Georgia Lee Hussey, CFP and founder of Modernist Financial, joins to discuss building financial resilience in today’s shifting political and economic landscape. Farnoosh and Georgia answer pressing audience questions, offering advice on combining finances in marriage, managing debt while saving for retirement, and optimizing student loan repayment -- all through the lens of a Trump presidency.
  • 1748: Friends with Money: Smart Strategies for Managing Wealth Gaps in Friendships

    27:12|
    Have you ever felt uncomfortable splitting a dinner bill with friends or hesitated to join a group vacation because of the cost? Maybe you’ve wondered if your friends view money the way you do. Friendships are one of the most rewarding parts of life, yet they come with their own set of challenges—especially when money enters the picture. Today, we’re diving into this problem with someone who has tackled this topic head-on. Kristin Wong, an award-winning journalist and author, has explored the subtle, often unspoken ways wealth gaps can impact friendships. Her recent article in The New York Times uncovers the nuances of these situations and how friends navigate the social and emotional dynamics of financial imbalance. Follow Kristin's Substack, "Untranslatable."Join the So Money Members Club.Download Farnoosh's free investing blueprint.Hang out with Farnoosh on Instagram.
  • 1747: Reasonably Happy: Finding Humor and Meaning in Money

    36:03|
    Thrilled to welcome back one of our favorite voices in the world of money and humor—Paul Ollinger. Paul is a comedian and author, and he's here to talk about his latest book of essays, Reasonably Happy, a collection that balances sharp wit with deep reflections on money, purpose, and what it means to live a meaningful life. Follow Pau's SubstackJoin the So Money Members Club.Download Farnoosh's free investing blueprint.Hang out with Farnoosh on Instagram.
  • 1746: Managing Your Money in a Trump Presidency

    30:29|
    In this episode of So Money, Farnoosh dives into the financial implications of Donald Trump’s recent election victory. Reflecting on her mixed emotions, she draws on wisdom from family and acknowledges the resilience needed to face uncertainty. Farnoosh shares insight on potential economic policies, like proposed tariffs and tax changes, and discusses how these could impact inflation, the stock market, and household finances. She emphasizes the importance of “healthy panic” as a motivator for constructive actions in our financial lives. From boosting cash reserves to staying engaged with long-term investments, she outlines her approach to navigating the coming years. Farnoosh also highlights the importance of community and financial self-reliance, especially for women. Join the So Money Members Club.Download Farnoosh's free investing blueprint.Hang out with Farnoosh on Instagram.
  • 1745: The Science of Setting and Achieving Financial Goals

    34:34|
    In our financial lives, setting goals isn’t just about having aspirations; it’s about understanding how to build sustainable, achievable plans that propel us toward success. Guest Caroline Adams Miller has spent over 30 years pioneering the science behind how we set goals, stay resilient, and achieve meaningful success. Her newest book, Big Goals, is changing the conversation around achieving personal and professional ambitions.Join the So Money Members Club.Download Farnoosh's free investing blueprint.Hang out with Farnoosh on Instagram.