Feudal Future

America's Jewish geography is undergoing a dramatic transformation, shifting from its historical concentration in the Northeast to flourishing communities across the South and West. This fascinating evolution reflects broader demographic patterns while revealing unique insights about Jewish identity, community formation, and cultural adaptation.

Demographic expert Ira Sheskin takes us through the numbers, showing how the Jewish population in the Northeast has declined from two-thirds after WWII to approximately 40% today, while Southern states — particularly Florida — have experienced remarkable growth. He notes the concentration in metropolitan areas while rural Southern states maintain minimal Jewish presence. This isn't merely statistical shuffling but represents profound changes in how Jewish Americans live, work, and practice their faith.

Through personal narratives, we hear from those who've made this journey. Mark Goldman shares his experience relocating from New York to Atlanta in 1990, drawn by professional opportunities but facing occasional discomfort in a region with complicated historical attitudes toward Jews. Meanwhile, Israeli entrepreneur Tal Shmueli provides a fresh perspective on Austin's rapidly growing Jewish community, describing how in just four years he's witnessed an explosion of Jewish businesses, cultural offerings, and community infrastructure.

The conversation takes a revealing turn when discussing religious practice and identity. Miami stands out as an exception to national trends, with younger Jews actually more likely to maintain strong connections to Israel and religious tradition than their elders. Chabad emerges as a particularly successful model for engaging Jews across regions, adapting its approach to be welcoming and community-focused while maintaining traditional values. This raises fascinating questions about how Jewish identity will continue to evolve in these new geographical contexts.

Want to understand how American Jewish communities are reinventing themselves in unexpected places? Listen now to hear insights from those experiencing this transformation firsthand and discover what it might mean for the future of Jewish American identity.

Support Our Work
The Center for Demographics and Policy focuses on research and analysis of global, national, and regional demographic trends and explores policies that might produce favorable demographic results over time. It involves Chapman students in demographic research under the supervision of the Center’s senior staff.

Students work with the Center’s director and engage in research that will serve them well as they look to develop their careers in business, the social sciences, and the arts. Students also have access to our advisory board, which includes distinguished Chapman faculty and major demographic scholars from across the country and the world.

For additional information, please contact Mahnaz Asghari, Associate Director for the Center for Demographics and Policy, at (714) 744-7635 or [email protected].

Follow us on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-feudal-future-podcast/

Tweet thoughts: @joelkotkin, @mtoplansky, #FeudalFuture #BeyondFeudalism #centerfordemographicspolicy #chapmanuniversity

Learn more about Joel's book 'The Coming of Neo-Feudalism': https://amzn.to/3a1VV87

Sign Up For News & Alerts: http://joelkotkin.com/#subscribe

This show is presented by the Chapman Center for Demographics and Policy, which focuses on research and analysis of global, national and regional demographic trends and explores policies that might produce favorable demographic results ov...

What happens when we give machines the power to think without ensuring they share our values? This riveting conversation dives deep into one of humanity's most pressing challenges: controlling artificial intelligence as it grows increasingly powerful.

Joined by Roni Abovitz, founder of groundbreaking companies Mako Surgical and Magic Leap, and neuroscientist Dr. Uri Maoz from Chapman University, we explore the profound question of AI intentions. Abovitz introduces a compelling biological metaphor, suggesting we view AI systems not as a monolith but as different "species"—some benign like golden retrievers, others potentially dangerous as velociraptors. This framing helps us understand that the path forward isn't about controlling "AI" but about deliberately creating systems with built-in safeguards and beneficial intentions.

The conversation takes a sobering turn as Dr. Maoz highlights the vast speed differential between human thought and machine processing. "A second to us is two weeks to them," he explains, illustrating why prevention and foresight are essential—by the time we recognize a problem, an advanced AI could have spent the equivalent of months planning countermeasures.

We examine how the global "AI overmatch" race parallels historical arms races, with nations pushing development forward at breakneck speed without adequate safety considerations. Unlike nuclear weapons, which created a mutually-assured destruction dynamic discouraging their use, AI lacks clear restraint mechanisms—and the technology can spread globally within hours once developed.

Despite these challenges, our guests offer hope through emerging efforts to build intentionally benign systems. Abovitz notes that while many developers chase power above all, there exists a "Jedi Rebel Alliance" of technologists committed to creating safe, beneficial AI. His conversations with Fortune 500 CEOs reveal that business leaders overwhelmingly want AI that helps their companies without harming employees or humanity—suggesting potential market pressure for safer development paths.

Listen as we navigate this critical moment in human history and explore what's needed to ensure AI enhances rather than endangers our collective future. The time to shape these technologies with wisdom and foresight is now—before the T-Rex breaks through the fence.

Support Our Work
The Center for Demographics and Policy focuses on research and analysis of global, national, and regional demographic trends and explores policies that might produce favorable demographic results over time. It involves Chapman students in demographic research under the supervision of the Center’s senior staff.

Students work with the Center’s director and engage in research that will serve them well as they look to develop their careers in business, the social sciences, and the arts. Students also have access to our advisory board, which includes distinguished Chapman faculty and major demographic scholars from across the country and the world.

For additional information, please contact Mahnaz Asghari, Associate Director for the Center for Demographics and Policy, at (714) 744-7635 or [email protected].

Follow us on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-feudal-future-podcast/

Tweet thoughts: @joelkotkin, @mtoplansky, #FeudalFuture #BeyondFeudalism #centerfordemographicspolicy #chapmanuniversity

Learn more about Joel's book 'The Coming of Neo-Feudalism': https://amzn.to/3a1VV87

Sign Up For News & Alerts: http://joelkotkin.com/#subscribe

This show is presented by the Chapman Center for Demographics and Policy, which focuses on research and analysis of global, national and regional demographic trends and explores policies that might produce favorable demographic results ov...

The economic and political landscape between the United States and Europe is undergoing a seismic shift as Trump's tariff threats create ripples across the Atlantic. Our expert guests, Professor Veronica de Romanis from Rome and journalist Fraser Myers from London, provide fascinating insights into how European countries are responding to this new economic reality.

De Romanis characterizes Europe's reaction as one of profound uncertainty, noting that while this instability threatens short-term growth, it might ultimately strengthen the EU's collective resolve. Meanwhile, the UK government appears more optimistic about negotiating favorable terms with Trump, despite potentially devastating impacts on key British industries like automotive manufacturing and pharmaceuticals.

The conversation reveals striking contrasts between American and European economic structures. While the US struggles with twin deficits (both trade and fiscal), Europe grapples with slower growth and demographic decline. Germany's momentous shift away from its traditional debt brake policies signals a recognition that increased public spending on infrastructure, healthcare, and technology has become essential to prevent recession.

Perhaps most alarming is Europe's demographic crisis, with birth rates plummeting to unsustainable levels—just 1.3 children per woman across the EU and a shocking 1.01 in Italy. This population decline threatens everything from pension systems to workforce availability. De Romanis advocates increasing female employment (currently just 50% in Italy) as a critical part of the solution.

The migration debate reveals another fascinating divergence across Europe. While Germany's substantial investment in integrating Syrian refugees has yielded impressive results (80% now employed and German-speaking), less managed approaches in countries like the UK and Italy have fueled political backlash. As Myers notes, migration has become Britain's number one political issue, even surpassing economic concerns.

As diplomatic tensions simmer between the US and Europe, the podcast captures a continent at a crossroads—torn between embracing strategic autonomy and maintaining vital economic relationships with America. For leaders like Italy's Giorgia Meloni, this creates a complex balancing act between ideological alignment with American conservatives and protecting an export-led economy that would suffer severely from tariffs.

Don't miss this thought-provoking exploration of how Europe is navigating perhaps its most challenging economic and diplomatic landscape in decades. Subscribe to the Feudal Future Podcast for more insightful analysis of global economic and political transformations.

Support Our Work
The Center for Demographics and Policy focuses on research and analysis of global, national, and regional demographic trends and explores policies that might produce favorable demographic results over time. It involves Chapman students in demographic research under the supervision of the Center’s senior staff.

Students work with the Center’s director and engage in research that will serve them well as they look to develop their careers in business, the social sciences, and the arts. Students also have access to our advisory board, which includes distinguished Chapman faculty and major demographic scholars from across the country and the world.

For additional information, please contact Mahnaz Asghari, Associate Director for the Center for Demographics and Policy, at (714) 744-7635 or [email protected].

Follow us on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-feudal-future-podcast/

Tweet thoughts: @joelkotkin, @mtoplansky, #FeudalFuture #BeyondFeudalism #centerfordemographicspolicy #chapmanuniversity

Learn more about Joel's book 'The Coming of Neo-Feudalism': https://amzn.to/3a1VV87

Sign Up For News & Alerts: http://joelkotkin.com/#subscribe

This show is presented by the Chapman Center for Demographics and Policy, which focuses on research and analysis of global, national and regional demographic trends and explores policies that might produce favorable demographic results ov...

The battle for New York City's future is heating up as former Governor Andrew Cuomo faces off against progressive challenger Zoran Mamdani in what's shaping up to be an unpredictable mayoral race. With ranked-choice voting, multiple candidates, and current Mayor Eric Adams making a last-minute decision not to run in the Democratic primary, the city's political landscape has never been more complex.

At the heart of this contest are two fundamental issues dividing voters: public safety and housing affordability. Crime rates remain about 30% higher than pre-pandemic levels, with highly publicized random attacks continuing to make headlines. This concern propelled Adams to victory in 2021, and Cuomo has positioned himself as the experienced leader who can restore order while actually delivering results. Meanwhile, Mamdani represents a new generation of progressive politics, promising municipal housing construction with union labor and free citywide bus service – policies that resonate deeply with younger voters feeling priced out of the city they love.

The demographic divide in this election couldn't be starker. Older voters, particularly in Orthodox Jewish and Asian American communities, prioritize safety and stability, while younger transplants demand affordability and fresh approaches to governance. What's notably missing is engagement from traditional power centers – the business community has largely retreated from public advocacy, while unions show diminished influence compared to previous election cycles. This vacuum creates space for new movements but raises serious questions about coalition-building after the election.

Despite these challenges, there's reason for cautious optimism. The city shows signs of pandemic recovery, with rebounding tourism, increased subway ridership, and renewed street-level energy. As one journalist noted, "New York is not at a moment of profound crisis" – but it does face serious obstacles ahead. The outcome of this election will reveal whether America's largest city can navigate these challenges and create an effective template for urban governance that other cities might follow. For a nation watching closely, New York's choice represents far more than just a mayoral race; it's a referendum on the future of cities in American political life.

Support Our Work
The Center for Demographics and Policy focuses on research and analysis of global, national, and regional demographic trends and explores policies that might produce favorable demographic results over time. It involves Chapman students in demographic research under the supervision of the Center’s senior staff.

Students work with the Center’s director and engage in research that will serve them well as they look to develop their careers in business, the social sciences, and the arts. Students also have access to our advisory board, which includes distinguished Chapman faculty and major demographic scholars from across the country and the world.

For additional information, please contact Mahnaz Asghari, Associate Director for the Center for Demographics and Policy, at (714) 744-7635 or [email protected].

Follow us on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-feudal-future-podcast/

Tweet thoughts: @joelkotkin, @mtoplansky, #FeudalFuture #BeyondFeudalism #centerfordemographicspolicy #chapmanuniversity

Learn more about Joel's book 'The Coming of Neo-Feudalism': https://amzn.to/3a1VV87

Sign Up For News & Alerts: http://joelkotkin.com/#subscribe

This show is presented by the Chapman Center for Demographics and Policy, which focuses on research and analysis of global, national and regional demographic trends and explores policies that might produce favorable demographic results ov...

As the Feudal Future podcast marks its fifth anniversary, hosts Joel Kotkin and Marshall Toplansky examine how dramatically our society has evolved since they first warned about the emergence of neo-feudalism—a concentration of wealth and power resembling historical feudal systems.

The world has changed profoundly since they began. Political alliances have shifted, with powerful tech oligarchs now supporting figures across the political spectrum. Media credibility has deteriorated to the point where most Americans no longer trust mainstream sources for unfiltered information. U.S.-China relations have grown increasingly tense as America grapples with strategic vulnerabilities created by decades of de-industrialization.

Most concerning is the accelerating development of artificial intelligence—not just threatening low-wage workers but increasingly targeting middle-class professions. "My biggest worry," Joel notes, "is that we'll have an entire generation who stops learning how to think because every time they have a question, they ask AI." This technological revolution coincides with deepening generational divides, as younger people express mounting anger toward baby boomers for allegedly limiting their economic opportunities.

The hosts identify two competing futures emerging from these challenges: a disconnected society where individuals retreat into digital metaverses, or a revitalized community-based world emphasizing human connection through local neighborhoods, religious institutions, and what Joel calls an "artisan economy" valuing personal creation and direct human interaction.

Throughout their candid conversation, Kotkin and Toplansky demonstrate what has made their podcast successful—a willingness to tackle complex issues from multiple perspectives, prioritizing rational discourse over ideological conformity. "Maybe our last legacy as boomers," Joel reflects, "is highlighting the importance of knowledge, making reasoned arguments, and listening to viewpoints we disagree with."

What path will our society choose? Share your thoughts with us on Instagram and LinkedIn, and suggest topics you'd like us to explore in our next five years.

Support Our Work
The Center for Demographics and Policy focuses on research and analysis of global, national, and regional demographic trends and explores policies that might produce favorable demographic results over time. It involves Chapman students in demographic research under the supervision of the Center’s senior staff.

Students work with the Center’s director and engage in research that will serve them well as they look to develop their careers in business, the social sciences, and the arts. Students also have access to our advisory board, which includes distinguished Chapman faculty and major demographic scholars from across the country and the world.

For additional information, please contact Mahnaz Asghari, Associate Director for the Center for Demographics and Policy, at (714) 744-7635 or [email protected].

Follow us on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-feudal-future-podcast/

Tweet thoughts: @joelkotkin, @mtoplansky, #FeudalFuture #BeyondFeudalism #centerfordemographicspolicy #chapmanuniversity

Learn more about Joel's book 'The Coming of Neo-Feudalism': https://amzn.to/3a1VV87

Sign Up For News & Alerts: http://joelkotkin.com/#subscribe

This show is presented by the Chapman Center for Demographics and Policy, which focuses on research and analysis of global, national and regional demographic trends and explores policies that might produce favorable demographic results ov...

The fault lines in US-Mexico relations have never been more visible. Our expert panel—featuring former CNN journalist Bruno Lopez and economist Alejandro  Chaufen—brings decades of experience to unpacking one of North America's most crucial yet strained relationships.

Recent polling reveals a shocking statistic: 80% of Mexicans now hold negative views of the United States. This represents a diplomatic crisis happening right under our noses, with consequences that stretch far beyond politics into the economic foundations of both nations. The $67 billion in annual remittances flowing from Mexican workers in America back to their homeland now hangs in the balance as deportation policies intensify.

Our conversation travels through unexpected territory—from Chinese influence in Latin America to the paradoxical effects of border militarization. Rather than deterring migration, tighter borders have actually encouraged permanent settlement in the US, disrupting historical patterns of temporary labor migration that benefited both countries. Our experts make a compelling case for returning to more flexible work visa programs that acknowledge economic realities while respecting sovereignty.

The security situation within Mexico emerges as perhaps the most troubling dimension of our discussion. With approximately 30-35,000 drug-related murders annually and vast regions under cartel control, Mexico's governance challenges directly impact migration patterns and cross-border relations. Yet despite these obstacles, Mexico continues to show remarkable resilience, with vibrant cities attracting a growing expatriate population of Americans seeking affordable living.

Looking forward, our panel explores how the growing influence of Mexican-Americans—projected to be part of a Hispanic population representing 30% of the US by 2050—might eventually create new cultural bridges between these estranged neighbors. Despite current tensions, historical connections and economic interdependence suggest pathways toward reconciliation.

Join us for this essential conversation about two nations whose futures remain inextricably linked despite the political weather of the moment. Subscribe now to hear more insights on the global forces reshaping our world.

Support Our Work
The Center for Demographics and Policy focuses on research and analysis of global, national, and regional demographic trends and explores policies that might produce favorable demographic results over time. It involves Chapman students in demographic research under the supervision of the Center’s senior staff.

Students work with the Center’s director and engage in research that will serve them well as they look to develop their careers in business, the social sciences, and the arts. Students also have access to our advisory board, which includes distinguished Chapman faculty and major demographic scholars from across the country and the world.

For additional information, please contact Mahnaz Asghari, Associate Director for the Center for Demographics and Policy, at (714) 744-7635 or [email protected].

Follow us on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-feudal-future-podcast/

Tweet thoughts: @joelkotkin, @mtoplansky, #FeudalFuture #BeyondFeudalism #centerfordemographicspolicy #chapmanuniversity

Learn more about Joel's book 'The Coming of Neo-Feudalism': https://amzn.to/3a1VV87

Sign Up For News & Alerts: http://joelkotkin.com/#subscribe

This show is presented by the Chapman Center for Demographics and Policy, which focuses on research and analysis of global, national and regional demographic trends and explores policies that might produce favorable demographic results ov...

America stands at a political crossroads where old alliances are shifting and economic realities are reshaping party loyalties. The Democratic Party faces a profound identity crisis - pragmatic at the local level where mayors tackle real problems head-on, yet seemingly detached at the national level where ideology often trumps practicality.

Our fascinating conversation with David Gershwin, Democratic strategist, and Jim Wunderman, CEO of the Bay Area Council, explores this tension that could determine not just the Democratic Party's future but America's economic direction. We dive into why labor unions - traditionally Democratic strongholds - are increasingly receptive to Republican messaging, and how reshoring manufacturing presents both opportunities and challenges that cross party lines.

The globalization debate emerges as a central theme. America's transition to a global economy delivered affordable consumer goods for decades but hollowed out manufacturing communities. Now, both parties must navigate whether America can maintain competitive pricing while rebuilding its industrial base. Complete deglobalization would likely increase consumer prices dramatically, potentially harming the 70% of the American economy driven by consumer spending.

Perhaps most intriguing is our exploration of demographic shifts that may be as significant as the post-World War II transformation. Digital natives approach social issues differently than previous generations, yet Trump's surprising performance among younger voters suggests traditional assumptions about generational politics are evolving. Meanwhile, the unprecedented political divide between young men and women may reshape party coalitions in ways we're only beginning to understand.

For anyone trying to make sense of America's political and economic future, this conversation provides essential context and thought-provoking analysis. Join us as we examine whether Democrats can refocus on kitchen-table economics while Republicans attempt to deliver on promises without alienating critical voting blocs.

Support Our Work
The Center for Demographics and Policy focuses on research and analysis of global, national, and regional demographic trends and explores policies that might produce favorable demographic results over time. It involves Chapman students in demographic research under the supervision of the Center’s senior staff.

Students work with the Center’s director and engage in research that will serve them well as they look to develop their careers in business, the social sciences, and the arts. Students also have access to our advisory board, which includes distinguished Chapman faculty and major demographic scholars from across the country and the world.

For additional information, please contact Mahnaz Asghari, Associate Director for the Center for Demographics and Policy, at (714) 744-7635 or [email protected].

Follow us on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-feudal-future-podcast/

Tweet thoughts: @joelkotkin, @mtoplansky, #FeudalFuture #BeyondFeudalism #centerfordemographicspolicy #chapmanuniversity

Learn more about Joel's book 'The Coming of Neo-Feudalism': https://amzn.to/3a1VV87

Sign Up For News & Alerts: http://joelkotkin.com/#subscribe

This show is presented by the Chapman Center for Demographics and Policy, which focuses on research and analysis of global, national and regional demographic trends and explores policies that might produce favorable demographic results ov...

Trump's threatened tariffs against Canada have sparked more than just economic anxiety—they've triggered a profound identity crisis among our northern neighbors. Joining Joel Kotkin and Marshall Toplansky are John Kay (Quillette) and Rob Roberts (National Post), who offer razor-sharp insights into how this diplomatic tension is reshaping Canadian self-perception.

The conversation reveals a fascinating psychological whiplash. Kay observes that many Canadians who recently characterized their country as a "genocide state" are now wrapping themselves in the maple leaf flag. This rapid oscillation between self-criticism and patriotism exposes what he describes as Canada's fundamentally "unstable" national identity—"like predicting the mood of a manic friend."

Beyond identity politics, the podcast explores concrete economic vulnerabilities that make diversification challenging. The auto industry emerges as particularly exposed, with parts often crossing the border multiple times during manufacturing. This integration makes talk of Canada simply pivoting to Asian markets unrealistic in the short term.

Yet amid the anxiety, there's a surprising silver lining. Roberts suggests this crisis might finally force Canada to address longstanding internal barriers to economic development—from interprovincial trade restrictions to the difficulties in approving energy projects. External pressure might accomplish what internal politics could not.

Most poignantly, both guests express a profound sense of betrayal that transcends economics. "There has been a real breach of trust, breach of friendship," Roberts explains. "We're hurt and angry in a way that I've never seen." This emotional dimension suggests that repairing US-Canadian relations will require more than just policy adjustments—it will demand rebuilding trust that has been fundamentally broken.

What role will Canada play in a rapidly changing North American economic landscape? Listen now to understand the complex dynamics reshaping our relationship with one of our most important allies.

Support Our Work
The Center for Demographics and Policy focuses on research and analysis of global, national, and regional demographic trends and explores policies that might produce favorable demographic results over time. It involves Chapman students in demographic research under the supervision of the Center’s senior staff.

Students work with the Center’s director and engage in research that will serve them well as they look to develop their careers in business, the social sciences, and the arts. Students also have access to our advisory board, which includes distinguished Chapman faculty and major demographic scholars from across the country and the world.

For additional information, please contact Mahnaz Asghari, Associate Director for the Center for Demographics and Policy, at (714) 744-7635 or [email protected].

Follow us on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-feudal-future-podcast/

Tweet thoughts: @joelkotkin, @mtoplansky, #FeudalFuture #BeyondFeudalism #centerfordemographicspolicy #chapmanuniversity

Learn more about Joel's book 'The Coming of Neo-Feudalism': https://amzn.to/3a1VV87

Sign Up For News & Alerts: http://joelkotkin.com/#subscribe

This show is presented by the Chapman Center for Demographics and Policy, which focuses on research and analysis of global, national and regional demographic trends and explores policies that might produce favorable demographic results ov...

The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has become one of the most controversial initiatives of the Trump administration, but what does it actually represent? We're joined by Shawn Steel, National Committeeman for the Republican National Committee, and Professor Luke Nichter, historian at Chapman University, to explore the deeper meaning behind this government restructuring effort.

Our conversation reveals how DOGE taps into profound middle-class frustration with government spending and opacity. As Steele explains, "Elon Musk is taking the great angst of the great middle class in America... What has been going on all these years? Where is this money going?" This sentiment has fueled a movement that extends far beyond partisan politics, challenging what many see as an entrenched administrative state insulated from accountability.

We examine fascinating demographic shifts showing how government employment has effectively created a new privileged class in many regions, especially in California where public sector jobs have grown at three times the rate of private employment while paying approximately twice the median income. This transformation represents what Joel Kotkin describes as "class warfare," pitting traditional middle-class Americans against a government-employed "clerisy" class.

The discussion also places DOGE within broader historical context, suggesting we may be witnessing the early stages of a political realignment similar to shifts that occurred in the 1960s and 1970s. Trump has successfully channeled widespread resentment among Americans who feel their tax dollars repeatedly bail out elites during crises while they themselves receive little support. As this movement spreads to state governments, we may be entering a new era of governance that emphasizes transparency and accountability.

Join us to understand not just the mechanics of DOGE, but how it reflects deep currents in American society that are reshaping our political landscape. Whether you see it as long-overdue reform or dangerous disruption, this conversation will give you valuable context for one of today's most consequential political developments.

Support Our Work
The Center for Demographics and Policy focuses on research and analysis of global, national, and regional demographic trends and explores policies that might produce favorable demographic results over time. It involves Chapman students in demographic research under the supervision of the Center’s senior staff.

Students work with the Center’s director and engage in research that will serve them well as they look to develop their careers in business, the social sciences, and the arts. Students also have access to our advisory board, which includes distinguished Chapman faculty and major demographic scholars from across the country and the world.

For additional information, please contact Mahnaz Asghari, Associate Director for the Center for Demographics and Policy, at (714) 744-7635 or [email protected].

Follow us on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-feudal-future-podcast/

Tweet thoughts: @joelkotkin, @mtoplansky, #FeudalFuture #BeyondFeudalism #centerfordemographicspolicy #chapmanuniversity

Learn more about Joel's book 'The Coming of Neo-Feudalism': https://amzn.to/3a1VV87

Sign Up For News & Alerts: http://joelkotkin.com/#subscribe

This show is presented by the Chapman Center for Demographics and Policy, which focuses on research and analysis of global, national and regional demographic trends and explores policies that might produce favorable demographic results ov...

The future of California's economy depends on Latino communities. This stark reality emerges vividly in our special town hall session recorded at the Cheech Collection for Chicano Art in Riverside, where experts gathered to discuss findings from "El Futuro es Latino," a groundbreaking research project from Chapman University.

The numbers tell a compelling story: Latinos will represent 78% of new US workers over this decade. In California, they comprise nearly 40% of the population and half of residents under 18. Yet despite this demographic significance, California's Latinos face persistent gaps in income, home ownership, and education compared to their counterparts nationwide.

Our first panel examines how Latinos form the backbone of California's "carbon economy" – disproportionately filling essential roles in construction, transportation, and manufacturing. These are precisely the industries most threatened by aggressive environmental policies, creating an economic vulnerability that policymakers rarely address. Meanwhile, the housing crisis hits Latino families particularly hard, with California ranking 41st nationwide in Latino homeownership, forcing many to leave coastal areas for more affordable regions like the Inland Empire.

The conversation shifts dramatically when our second panel explores concrete solutions. We hear from housing developers creating manufactured home communities where prices remain under $250,000, small business experts supporting Latino entrepreneurs who create their own economic opportunities, and workforce development specialists connecting workers to meaningful career pathways rather than just jobs.

Throughout both discussions, one theme emerges consistently: civic engagement remains the missing piece. Despite their growing numbers, Latinos remain underrepresented in voting and policy advocacy. As one panelist powerfully states, "Latinos don't need public policies written for them – we need to be writing them ourselves."

Whether you're concerned about California's economic future, interested in practical solutions to housing affordability, or seeking to understand the untapped potential of America's fastest-growing demographic, this episode offers rare insights from those working directly at the intersection of policy and community impact.

Support Our Work
The Center for Demographics and Policy focuses on research and analysis of global, national, and regional demographic trends and explores policies that might produce favorable demographic results over time. It involves Chapman students in demographic research under the supervision of the Center’s senior staff.

Students work with the Center’s director and engage in research that will serve them well as they look to develop their careers in business, the social sciences, and the arts. Students also have access to our advisory board, which includes distinguished Chapman faculty and major demographic scholars from across the country and the world.

For additional information, please contact Mahnaz Asghari, Associate Director for the Center for Demographics and Policy, at (714) 744-7635 or [email protected].

Follow us on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-feudal-future-podcast/

Tweet thoughts: @joelkotkin, @mtoplansky, #FeudalFuture #BeyondFeudalism #centerfordemographicspolicy #chapmanuniversity

Learn more about Joel's book 'The Coming of Neo-Feudalism': https://amzn.to/3a1VV87

Sign Up For News & Alerts: http://joelkotkin.com/#subscribe

This show is presented by the Chapman Center for Demographics and Policy, which focuses on research and analysis of global, national and regional demographic trends and explores policies that might produce favorable demographic results ov...