The Pete the Planner® Show

The Pete the Planner® Show


Trapped at the Bottom: The Science Behind Staying Broke

March 21, 2025

Economic mobility—the ability to move up the financial ladder—has long been a hallmark of the American Dream. But recent research suggests that for many, mobility is increasingly out of reach. In this episode, we’ll examine the determinants of economic mobility, explore why some individuals and families stay stagnant, and discuss realistic strategies for improving mobility at both a personal and policy level.