Episode 200: What makes someone an adult? Is it a job? A mortgage? A family? Or something harder to define, like emotional maturity or civic contribution?

In this 200th episode of The Ethical Life podcast, hosts Richard Kyte and Scott Rada explore how our expectations around growing up have shifted and whether the long arc toward independence seen in younger generations is a sign of thoughtful living or a troubling retreat from responsibility.

Rada reflects on his eagerness as a child to do things independently and how that shaped his adult identity. Kyte shares a contrasting view: as a teenager, he felt apprehensive about the demands of adulthood, even as he took on responsibilities like ski patrol work at the age of 16. That contrast sets the stage for a wide-ranging conversation about why some people seem to rush toward maturity while others hold back.

The episode touches on parenting styles, changing economic conditions, birth order and the influence of trauma — all factors that can shape when and how someone begins to take ownership of their life. But it also dives into the ethical implications: Do we owe it to our communities to “grow up” on a socially accepted timeline? Or is it fair — even wise — to proceed at your own pace?

Along the way, they discuss the story of a 27-year-old “Jeopardy!” contestant who described himself as a “stay-at-home son,” raising questions about whether clever labels obscure real consequences. When does personal choice cross into social withdrawal?

As always, the show ends with an ethical dilemma. This week’s question: Should a stranger ever step in to correct someone else’s child? What about another adult? A conversation that starts with a 4-year-old’s foot on a train seat reveals much deeper attitudes about authority, community and accountability.