A Nation of Strangers: Do you know and trust your neighbor?

The Smerconish Podcast

Michael sits down with Laura Silver, Associate Director at the Pew Research Center, to unpack the state of trust and neighborly connections in America. Drawing on the latest 2025 Pew survey data, they explore whether Americans still trust most people, know their neighbors, or engage in simple acts of kindness like watering plants or making small talk in a grocery store. From the decline of local media to the rise of digital isolation, this episode covers why Americans report more willingness to help others than they expect in return, and what this says about the social fabric of the country. Is it a crisis of connection? Or a misperception of division? Tune in to find out—and maybe be inspired to knock on a neighbor’s door. Original air date 19 May 2025.