Why has the income needed to afford a median-priced American home more than doubled in less than seven years? What is happening with the affordability crisis?

In this episode, Josh Meeder sits down with real estate leader and independent economic researcher Zachary Foust to examine the forces reshaping homeownership in America. Zach breaks down the connections between housing prices, mortgage rates, inflation, Federal Reserve policy, quantitative easing, and the declining purchasing power of the dollar—all in straightforward language.

They also challenge popular political solutions, including down-payment assistance, promises of lower mortgage rates, expanded housing construction, and 50-year mortgages. Are these real solutions, or do they simply make an unaffordable system easier to enter?

Beyond economics, Zach shares the personal awakening that changed his direction. After recognizing how deeply his identity had been shaped by other people’s beliefs and expectations, he began questioning the life he had built and pursuing truth with greater purpose.

This is a candid, nonpartisan conversation about the housing affordability crisis, personal transformation, and what happens when your values finally begin driving your work.

Connect with Zachary Foust on Instagram, TikTok, X, Facebook, and the Zach Foust Show on YouTube.