No Rush to Reproduce: The New Normal? Episode 572

On today’s episode, host Niall sits down with Laura Perrin of Gript Media to unpack a tweet that has ignited a storm online.

An American influencer sparked outrage among feminists by claiming:
“There is a limited window of time for easy, healthy pregnancies. You can start a new career at 50.”
Her message—suggesting that having children should take priority over a woman’s career—has reopened a passionate debate about fertility, choice, and modern life.

Niall and Laura explore why so many women are waiting longer than ever to start a family. In Ireland, the average age for a first-time mother is now almost 32, up from just 25 in the 1980s—a jump of seven years in four decades. They look at what’s driving this shift: careers, education, economics, lifestyle changes, and societal expectations. Meanwhile, in the U.S., the age is lower at 27.5, raising questions about cultural differences and whether Ireland is heading toward even later motherhood.

As the average age rises, birth rates fall—so what does this mean for women, families, and the future of society?
Is pursuing a career first empowering, or does it come with hidden costs?
And is it fair—or accurate—to say motherhood can be postponed but careers can’t?

Join the conversation and share your thoughts.
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Live at 12pm—don’t miss it.