In this episode, Matt Hill and Ariel Slonim discuss the fertility crisis with guest Susannah Petitt. They explore the decline in birth rates, the impact of education and marriage trends, and the economic implications of a shrinking population. The conversation delves into the importance of innovation, the role of social media, and potential policy solutions to encourage family growth. 

Susannah shares insights on the misconceptions surrounding fertility and the need for supportive community structures. The episode concludes with reflections on the cultural narratives surrounding parenthood and the opportunity costs associated with raising children.

Chapters

04:16 The Shift from Overpopulation to Depopulation Concerns

19:11 Housing and Its Impact on Family Planning

25:08 The Influence of Technology and Social Change on Fertility

34:41 Balancing Childbearing and Career

45:29 Current Reads and Interesting Finds

57:16 Current Events: Tariffs and Trade Agreements

Check out Susannah’s substack Upward Bound: https://theupwardbound.substack.com/