The Missing Middle Podcast Is “Buying Canadian” Actually a Luxury for the Rich?
Feb 27, 2026
They debate whether boycotting U.S. goods is symbolic patriotism or an unaffordable luxury for younger Canadians. Polling and generational divides frame why older people favor buying American-free products while Millennials and Gen Z face affordability pressures. A car-buying story about a Canada-assembled vehicle sparks discussion on ethical shopping as a status signal. The conversation probes politics, travel judgment, and economic strain.
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Older Canadians Shift Away From US Goods
- Older Canadians are far likelier than younger ones to avoid buying U.S. products after recent political tensions.
- Nanos and Research Co polls show 55+ avoid U.S. goods around 75–88%, while younger groups are about 10–25 points lower.
Generational Memory Shapes National Sentiment
- Generational experience shapes how central the Canada–U.S. partnership feels to identity and policy reactions.
- Cara notes boomers remember long stretches of stable partnership and wartime solidarity, while Gen Z grew up with instability like Trump.
Mike's Boxed Day Car Choice To Buy Canadian
- Mike recounts a Boxing Day ice storm that destroyed his car and prompted a conscious choice to buy a Canadian-assembled vehicle.
- He chose a Honda CRV hybrid assembled in Ontario despite knowing North American auto supply chains are integrated.