
From politicians to Silicon Valley, a growing chorus is sounding the alarm and calling for more babies. But the story behind America’s declining birth rate is more complicated than headlines and political talking points suggest. Is this just a temporary trend, or something deeper — and what does it mean for the kind of society we’re building?Host Megan McArdle is joined by economist and demographer Lyman Stone to discuss what’s really driving the decline in birth rates — from delayed marriage to cultural shifts and rising anxiety about the future.Subscribe to The Washington Post here.
AI Summary coming soon
Sign up to get notified when the full AI-powered summary is ready.
Free forever for up to 3 podcasts. No credit card required.

Longing for 'simpler times'? Consider this first.

Everyone wants to live like an influencer now

How Americans developed an unhealthy relationship with the Supreme Court

The temperature is rising on AI. What comes next?
Free AI-powered recaps of Reasonably Optimistic and your other favorite podcasts, delivered to your inbox.
Free forever for up to 3 podcasts. No credit card required.