The Opinions People Still Want to Get Married. Why Aren't They?
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Oct 29, 2025 
Jessica Grose, an Opinion writer focused on family and relationships, and Glynnis MacNicol, an author exploring singlehood and cultural shifts, dive into the evolving views on marriage. They discuss rising female discontent with traditional relationships and how financial independence reshapes dating. The guests highlight the impact of COVID on household dynamics and the visibility of single life, which reduces stigma around being single. They also examine the role of dating apps in creating superficial connections, illustrating how partnership is becoming a choice rather than a default.
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Marriage Is No Longer The Default
- Millennials and Gen Z treat marriage less as a default capstone and more as an optional choice.
- Greater female financial independence and longer time to feel 'settled' reshape marriage expectations.
Alternatives Make Singlehood Visible
- New narratives show single life as fulfilling, reducing marriage's cultural monopoly on happiness.
- Visible alternatives make singlehood feel viable and appealing to more women.
Structural Gaps Shape Relationship Choices
- Lack of social supports like affordable childcare amplifies doubts about marriage and parenting.
- Women compare punishing realities of parenting to more attractive single alternatives.