Journiosity

Ann Thomson

Blending unapologetic curiosity with easy conversation, I interview ordinary people—just like you and me—to discover their extra~ordinary. journiosity.substack.com

Episodes

  1. Young professional perspective on the economic challenges and cultural resilience of Argentinians at a historic crossroad

    MAY 11

    Young professional perspective on the economic challenges and cultural resilience of Argentinians at a historic crossroad

    Young Argentinians on Milei’s Reforms: Inflation, Taxes, Hope and Daily Life in Mendoza In Mendoza, Argentina, October 2025, I interviewed Juli, a lawyer, and Tomi, a small business owner/engineer, about changes under President Milei after recent elections that ostensibly strengthened his position in Congress. They describe life before Milei as marked by extreme inflation, product shortages, import restrictions and high taxes, with people using instalments to cope and some abusing government benefits due to weak oversight. They discuss “ventajeros” as taking advantage of situations, including with tourists, and explain how heavy taxation and instability made professional salaries feel insufficient. Under Milei, they report greater price stability, more predictable salaries and hope that young professionals may return from abroad, though they note the transition has been exhausting and that pensioners and public services still struggle. They also share views on Trump, corruption in past governments, and Argentina’s welcoming culture and natural beauty. 00:00 Introduction to Mendoza and Guests 00:53 Election Win and Hopes 02:03 Life Under Inflation 03:13 Import Controls and Shortages 04:57 Welfare State and Abuse 07:07 The Ventajeros Culture 09:29 Taxes, Travel and Chile Runs 10:59 Installments and Beating Inflation 12:18 Young Professionals' Frustration 14:36 Stability Under Milei 16:45 Dollar Pricing Logic 17:20 Peso Swings and Brazil Trips 18:03 Hopeful Economic Outlook 19:22 Work, Wages and Brain Drain 21:24 Fairness and Public Services 23:13 Milei Crazy or Genius 24:31 Trump and Immigration Views 26:22 Corruption and Voting Change 29:36 Why Argentina Is Special 31:35 Farewell and Invite to Mendoza This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit journiosity.substack.com

    33 min

About

Blending unapologetic curiosity with easy conversation, I interview ordinary people—just like you and me—to discover their extra~ordinary. journiosity.substack.com