What empty pews reveal about America

What empty pews reveal about America

August 19, 2026 · 52 min

About this episode

The episode discusses the complexities of declining religious attendance in America with insights from political scientist Ryan Burge.

America is becoming less religious — but the story is more complicated than empty pews. Host Megan McArdle is joined by political scientist and former pastor Ryan Burge to talk about the shifts taking place in America's churches. Are congregations shrinking or growing? Why are some religious traditions holding on better than others? And what does the rise of the religiously unaffiliated mean for American life? Subscribe to The Washington Post here .

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Host: Megan McArdle

Guest: Ryan Burge

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Organizations: The Washington Post

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