Why are fewer young people choosing marriage and children—and what can we learn from those who swim against the tide? Economist and author Catherine Pakaluk joins us to share the story behind her groundbreaking book Hannah’s Children. From her personal journey as a young wife and mother of six overnight, to her research on the cultural and spiritual roots of declining birth rates, Catherine unpacks what it really means to see children as gifts rather than burdens. This conversation is raw, hopeful, and deeply countercultural—perfect for anyone wrestling with questions of calling, career, and family.01:22 – Welcome and introduction to Catherine Pakaluk02:22 – Why Hannah’s Children was written04:22 – The birth rate crisis and cultural shifts in Gen Z07:22 – Catherine’s personal story: marriage, family, and unexpected callings13:22 – Balancing being a new wife and instant mother of six18:22 – “Readiness” and why waiting for the “perfect moment” doesn’t work23:22 – One child at a time: openness without numbers25:22 – Money myths: why children aren’t “too expensive”30:22 – The deeper reasons behind declining birth rates37:22 – How faith and lived experience shape the desire for children43:22 – Can the economy incentivize larger families?48:22 – Marriage, career, and calling: why it’s not either/or51:22 – Where to find Catherine’s work and a sneak peek at her upcoming projectGenZ Unplugged is the official podcast for the Clare Boothe Luce Center for Conservative Women. Rotating hosts are Lauren Husmann, Catherine Hendershott, Rachel Hurley, and Hannah Faulkner. Producer is Sandra Scarlatoiu. Listen, rate, and subscribe on your favorite podcast platform! ACAST - Apple Podcasts - Spotify - Google Podcasts - YouTube - Rumble Send us your thoughts on this episode @realgenzunplugged!  X - Instagram - Facebook - Truth Social SFX Credits: neon sign buzz hum stereo close lowcut to taste6.flac by kyles -- https://freesound.org/s/453493/ -- License: Creative Commons 0swipes and whooshes plastic umbrella fast and short swings stereo ORTF 8040.wav by Soundholder -- https://freesound.org/s/425853/ -- License: Attribution 3.0Power Cord Unplug 1_2 by Joao_Janz -- https://freesound.org/s/477641/ -- License: Creative Commons 0Abstract Glitch Effects_015 by jalastram -- https://freesound.org/s/412303/ -- License: Attribution 4.0 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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