How Stagflation Is Reshaping Higher Education Enrollment

Stagflation Conversations with Fexingo: High Inflation, Slow Growth, and 1970s Echoes · Jul 2, 2026 · 6m · transcript

In this episode, Lucas and Luna explore how stagflation—high inflation and slow growth—is driving a surprising shift in college enrollment. With real consumer price index data showing persistent 4–5% inflation and unemployment hovering at 4.3%, families are rethinking the ROI of a traditional four-year degree. Lucas cites a sharp 12% drop in freshman enrollment at private liberal arts colleges for fall 2026, while community college and online certificate programs see double-digit growth. They discuss how rising costs of living and stagnant wages are pushing students toward shorter, more…