Stress Test The Globe and Mail

Having kids has always been expensive. These days, with housing costs soaring for both renters and owners, it can feel impossible to buy a home and start a family at the same time. In this episode, Rob talks to a 28-year-old new mom who’s renting with her partner. Roma chats with a 34-year-old man who chose to move their family in with their in-laws to power save for a downpayment. We’re also joined by Shannon Tatlock, a certified financial planner, to discuss the steps young parents are taking so they’re financially prepared to start a family.

Commuting is back above pre-pandemic levels thanks to immigration and a reduction in remote work. In this episode, Rob talks to a 28-year-old lawyer who’s saving a pile of cash by living with her parents. Roma chats with a 34-year-old marketing professor who flies from Edmonton to Vancouver for work. We’re also joined by Clare Kumar, a Toronto-based productivity coach.

It’s getting harder and harder to build a good life in Canada. Everything is just so expensive. Most of us feel it — especially those of us just starting out. If you can work remotely, have you ever considered packing up and trying to get ahead near the beach? In this episode, we hear from two 30-year-olds; one who’s about to move to Spain and the other who’s been living in Playa del Carmen, with no plans to return any time soon.

Economic vibes still aren’t great. You want to get ahead, but it feels like you’re just getting by. And life events are coming at you fast: a new home, a career change, a baby. Hosts Rob Carrick and Roma Luciw are back for season nine of Stress Test, The Globe’s personal finance podcast for Gen Z and millennials. Coming up this season: why some Canadians are moving to warmer and cheaper climates, and the real cost of being a super-commuter. Plus, why are bars and restaurants so packed if everyone feels so broke?

If your usual resolutions are “go to the gym” or “eat healthy,” don’t forget that a mindful approach to money is also a ticket to improved wellness. We asked listeners in their 20s and 30s some basic personal finance “hygiene” questions when it comes to credit scores, tracking expenses, writing wills, spending on food and first home savings accounts.

Is a $100,000 salary enough for a comfortable life any more? Where are mortgages headed next? Are you electric car curious? Rob and Roma chat with the reporters who wrote some of the best-read personal finance stories from The Globe and Mail this year.