GenZ Unplugged

As a new year unfolds, it’s easy to obsess over résumés, productivity hacks, fitness milestones, and the next big achievement. But what if we’re asking the wrong questions altogether?In this episode of Gen Z Unplugged, Hannah Faulkner joins the conversation to unpack what it actually means to set goals with eternity in mind. From faith and fitness to work, mentorship, and burnout, we wrestle with the tension between worldly success and kingdom impact—and why Gen Z feels stuck chasing outcomes that never quite satisfy.We talk about delayed gratification, stewarding your body and mind, resisting the pull of constant productivity, and choosing goals that shape who you’re becoming—not just what you’re accomplishing. If you’re entering 2026 asking “What really matters?”—this episode is for you. 00:49 — Your 2026 Goals Might Be Aimed at the Wrong Thing01:38 — Stop Building a Resume and Start Thinking About Your Eulogy03:56 — When Self-Improvement Quietly Replaces God05:38 — Why Hustle Culture Is Burning Out Gen Z Women07:52 — Doomscrolling, AI, and the Death of Deep Thinking10:18 — The Mentorship Gap No One Is Talking About13:06 — You Become What You Watch, Read, and Follow17:05 — Fitness Culture Is Lying to You About Your Body23:07 — Delayed Gratification Is a Spiritual Skill27:58 — Silence With God Might Be the Hardest DisciplineGenZ 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

Title IX was created to protect women—our opportunities, our safety, and our right to fair competition. But in 2026, we’re watching it be used against the very girls it was meant to defend.In this episode of Gen Z Unplugged, we break down what’s really happening with the Supreme Court’s latest Title IX cases, why women’s sports are at the center of the fight, and how “equal opportunity” is being redefined in ways that cost female athletes scholarships, records, and even their safety. From firsthand stories and viral headlines to the deeper cultural shift behind it all, this is the conversation Gen Z women can’t afford to sit out.Because when reality gets blurred, someone always pays the price—and right now, it’s girls.00:34 — Why Title IX is suddenly everywhere again: Supreme Court cases and the fight over women’s sports01:08 — Standing outside the Supreme Court: young women rally for fairness in sports01:46 — “It’s wild that in 2026 we’re still debating basic biology”02:32 — What Title IX actually says—and what it was meant to protect03:53 — How Title IX is being weaponized to redefine “equal opportunity”05:08 — “If even one girl is harmed, that’s too many”06:09 — The Peyton McNabb story: when ideology turns physically dangerous08:08 — Supreme Court language that shocked the nation11:02 — Former athletes explain the biological reality behind competition27:25 — Why there is hope—and why Gen Z women must lead the responseGenZ 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

What if productivity, creativity, and personal fulfillment didn’t have to compete?In this episode of Gen Z Unplugged, we share the unique work system we use at the Clare Boothe Luce Center for Conservative Women—and why it’s led to our most successful year to date.We break down how collaboration hours, deep-focus workdays, and real flexibility help our team produce better work without burnout. The result? Record-breaking internships, major events, stronger creative output, and a workplace culture that supports both excellence and real life.In this conversation, we cover:Why rethinking how we work matters more than working longerHow focused collaboration speeds up big projectsWhy flexibility can actually raise standardsWhat this model means for women balancing career, family, and long-term growthIf you’ve ever felt like there should be a better way to work—this episode is for you.Would you thrive in a system like this? Tell us below.Timestamps00:00 — Why we’re finally sharing our unconventional work system01:36 — How collaboration hours actually work (and why they’re limited)02:18 — Flexibility doesn’t mean working less03:06 — The productivity wall most workplaces ignore04:27 — Why shorter work windows produce better results05:41 — Shifting from “clocking hours” to pursuing excellence07:14 — Where our deepest, most important work really happens08:49 — Blending the best of remote work and in-person collaboration11:27 — How this model reduces burnout—especially long-term13:39 — Why limited collaboration speeds up major projects06:26 - “Deep Work,” by Cal Newport: https://a.co/d/8ZWD097GenZ 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

Welcome back to Gen Z Unplugged.Today, we’re jumping on one of the internet’s biggest trends and taking it way deeper than TikTok ever could: our Ins and Outs for 2026. From fashion and food to dating, tech, culture, and mindset, we’re breaking down what we’re officially leaving behind—and what we think is shaping the year ahead.Some of these takes are fun. Some are spicy. Some might be a little controversial. But all of them reflect a real cultural shift we’re watching unfold: less doomscrolling, more intentional living. Less victim mentality, more accountability. Less noise, more substance.Whether it’s why doomscrolling is out, real food is in, hobbies are back, or why boyfriends might be out and husbands might be in—this episode is our honest, unfiltered forecast for 2026. Let’s get into it.00:00 — Why “Ins & Outs” are everywhere—and why we’re doing ours01:40 — Dressing classy again & the return of intentional fashion02:20 — Skinny jeans, riding boots, and the 2016 revival05:15 — Raunchy books and movies are officially out06:30 — Doomscrolling is out, reading and real life are in08:15 — Food as fuel: ingredients, whole foods, and protein14:20 — Sunlight, circadian rhythms, and waking up with the sun18:15 — Victim mentality and chronic negativity are out20:55 — Boyfriends out, husbands in: dating and marriage shifts25:05 — Analog life, hobbies, and reclaiming real-world skills GenZ 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

Gen Z women aren’t buying the old narrative anymore. The pressure to choose between career-maxing “girlboss” culture or hyper-domestic “tradwife” ideals never fit who we actually are — and now, even the Wall Street Journal is noticing.In this episode, we break down the WSJ feature on the Luce Center and explore how young conservative women are redefining ambition, family, calling, and success. This generation isn’t rejecting work or motherhood — we’re reframing both through the lens of seasons, purpose, and a new kind of freedom.With insights from voices like Isabel Brown, KT McFarland, Emma Waters, and Reagan Conrad, we reveal why Gen Z is choosing earlier marriage, embracing faith, prioritizing family, and still building meaningful careers — just not on the culture’s terms.If you’re tired of being told you only have two options, this episode is proof that a third path exists — and Gen Z women are already walking it.  00:27 — Why the Wall Street Journal is paying attention to Gen Z womenThe hosts introduce the WSJ article and the emerging “seasons” mindset among young conservative women.01:59 — “Have it all — just not all at once”Discussion of the rising middle ground between girlboss and tradwife, and why Gen Z is carving out a new model.05:27 — Isabel Brown on why Gen Z is differentMarriage rates, faith trends, and the surprising data showing a cultural shift among young women.09:25 — KT McFarland’s story: the role model she never hadKT shares the Sandra Day O’Connor advice that shaped her life — and how young women today finally have role models.13:08 — The power of role models & choosing your influencesHow college culture shapes women’s beliefs — and why the Luce Center provides a new model of integrated life.17:45 — Reagan Conrad on prioritization vs. balanceReagan explains why the real issue isn’t work itself — it’s having the wrong order of priorities.24:45 — The data is in: conservative & liberal women are divergingA look at childbearing trends from the General Social Survey and what they reveal about happiness and fulfillment.30:29 — The loneliness epidemic & why Gen Z craves familyA discussion of fractured families, declining community, and why young women want something different.34:21 — The deeper cultural forces at workHow global and political movements have undermined the family — and why Gen Z is pushing back.36:46 — Quiet acts of courage: how to change the cultureWhy the most powerful response to cultural pressure is simply living a joyful, ordered life rooted in faith and family.Link to the Wall Street Journal Article: https://www.wsj.com/lifestyle/careers/conservative-women-career-kids-bc3094f9?gaa_at=eafs&gaa_n=AWEtsqefKzTyWQGw9yZCboaoX9MZOyq2rbzfTUWqIZ9HSe0oMHFOwyqL_PqsY5DwiOE%3D&gaa_ts=69389f99&gaa_sig=a5sVBJIEyTrXwrjFIFAbwaHI-Gveo7ZnDJu_PtNnLRqAuyfb6-5UbFBFIAOpOgynxMp9rarvn64yw6no8z6v3g%3D%3D GenZ 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

Attorney and author Kimberly Begg, president of the Clare Boothe Luce Center for Conservative Women and author of Unbreakable: Saints Who Inspired Saints to Moral Courage, joins our host—a Belmont Abbey College criminal justice professor and fellow attorney—to discuss how to form courageous young women in a hostile culture.They explore why so many college women hide their convictions, how mentorship and authentic Catholic womanhood can counter that pressure, and how the stories of the saints shape families, imaginations, and moral courage. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or young woman yourself, this episode offers practical hope and a higher vision of what it means to be a woman today.09:54 — “88% of Students Pretend to Be More Liberal”Kimberly breaks down the Michigan/Northwestern study revealing overwhelming social pressure on campuses. A pivotal moment that frames the entire conversation about courage and conformity.11:30 — Inside the Internship ProgramA vivid look at how the Luce Center actively forms young women—media training, writing, firearms training, UN visits, and cultural formation. This paints the clearest picture of their mission in action.24:30 — Joan of Arc & Mother TeresaKimberly connects two iconic women across centuries, showing how deep prayer, courage, and clarity of mission create moral heroes. One of the most profound thematic sections.31:18 — Speaking Truth Before PowerMother Teresa’s fearless witness before global leaders, including President Clinton—an unforgettable example of gentle, uncompromising courage.36:03 — Building Courage in the HomeKimberly explains the parent’s role in forming spiritual and moral strength—one of the most actionable and widely relevant parts of the episode.Check out Conversatio here: https://belmontabbeycollege.edu/podcast/GenZ 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