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All Episodes
EP. 5

The $100,000 Question: Rethinking the Value of a College Degree

Unpacking Educational ROI, Student Debt, and the Rise of the Skilled Trades

Hosted by James Carter & Elena Park June 25, 2026
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About this episode

In this deep dive episode, we explore the complex and shifting reality of higher education's return on investment (ROI). While data consistently shows that a college degree results in higher lifetime earnings—with a bachelor's degree holder earning an average of $2.8 million over their career — the financial math is becoming much more complicated. We break down the true costs of higher education, discussing why it takes an average of 12 years in the workforce just to break even on a traditional bachelor's degree and how the burden of student loan debt is actively eroding the financial benefits of college.

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Disclaimer

This podcast is financial commentary for informational purposes only and does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any security. We are not a registered investment advisor. Consult a licensed financial professional before making any investment decisions.