On this episode of Through The Pines, we’ll provide a Millennial’s Guide to Financial Freedom

Millennials and Gen Z are navigating a financial landscape marked by high living costs, stagnant wages relative to inflation, and evolving career dynamics (e.g., gig economy, remote work). Recent data highlights their challenges:

• Student Debt: Over 45 million Americans owe $1.7 trillion in student loans, with Millennials and Gen Z bearing the brunt. Many are delaying major life milestones like buying homes or starting families.
• Homeownership Barriers: Rising home prices and interest rates (hovering around 6–7% in 2025) make homeownership elusive, especially in urban areas.
• Retirement Concerns: Only 55% of Millennials have retirement savings, and Gen Z is just starting to grapple with long-term planning, per recent surveys.
• Economic Optimism: Despite challenges, these generations are entrepreneurial, with 54% of Gen Z expressing interest in side hustles or starting businesses, according to 2024 studies.

Welcome to a Financial Planning Podcast with a down to earth vibe Sasquatch listens while training in his F1 Ferrari, this is Through the Pines.

Our Advisors for this episode, we welcome back Rex Baxter and Brandyn Smith from planwithbaxter.com

2023, 2024 & 2025 Forbes Best in State Wealth Management Teams For Utah -

Advisor Hub Fastest Growing Advisors to Watch under 1 Billion -

Receivers of the Ameriprise Client Experience Award -

Financial Advisors: Baxter, Smith & Associates

Contact: [email protected]

Website: https://www.ameripriseadvisors.com/team/baxter-nelsen-associates

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This podcast was produced by The Banyan Collective and recorded in our camp trailer studio located inside the Monarch Building inside the 9 Rails Arts District on Historic 25th Street in Ogden, Utah.

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Through the Pines - Reminding you to use Yesterday’s Dollars to Finance Tomorrow’s Dreams.

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This episode includes financial advice from professionals. Visit the financial planners in this podcast at www.planwithbaxter.com The Banyan Collective & Host, R. Brandon Long are not the financial professionals - podcast pro's, maybe - money men, not so much.

Through the Pines Podcast Copyright, The Banyan Collective - 2025

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