It started as a discussion about the cost of housing in general and quickly turned into questions for you, the listener. Is there a higher burden on young people today than adults faced in the past? Earl Ingram, host of The Earl Ingram Show, and special co-host Sandy Williams take your many calls and thoughts about the struggles of all ages.

“Young Americans aren’t happy,” Ingram says. “They are frustrated, and I don’t think their view of the country is what we remember at their age. Many of us benefited greatly from an America we love.”

“It depends on whose lens you are looking through,” Williams responds. “But I think it highlights the costs facing the young, and I hope we can use this to get them excited to vote.”

The results of a happiness survey backs up the idea that many young people feel the American dream is no longer attainable. Ingram goes on to share parts of the survey, including a noticeable uptick in unhappiness and concern about the decline of mental health, increases in living costs and gun violence.

“Costs are so high,” Calvin Butenhoff, producer of The Earl Ingram Show, says. “Many of my friends are still living with their parents.”

Calls and texts start rolling in.

“My grandkids are mostly older teenagers and they talk about wanting to see a better world for everyone,” Bill says by phone. “How about young American housing, like senior housing? We want people to believe there is a future for young Americans.”

Tony via text: We can see how other countries support their citizens. Ours simply does not.

“Child care, health care, taxes, a residence. Put all of those costs together and how can you afford paying the bills,” Tom asks while on the phone. “We need to put pressure on our legislature and remain laser-focused on these issues.”

John via text: It’s ironic the stress around work can cause so many health concerns. Then there are employers who don’t want to pay for health care.

“Let’s talk about jobs,” Ingram says. “Many young people can’t find a job, or don’t want the suit and tie job or the factory job. They want the different jobs being created in this new world.”

“My friends also want flexibility,” Butenhoff says. “The idea of short term jobs is increasing because they don’t want to be stuck with something. But they still worry about paying the bills.”

“They may also be creating their own jobs because they want a balance with life and work,” Williams says. “It’s a revolution and we need them to vote with these issues in mind. So much of this is probably why we aren’t testing well in those happiness surveys.”

Thanks to the response, Ingram and Williams are planning to continue this conversation during future shows – and they want to hear what you think.