We often hear that the best way to prepare the next generation for a successful life is through a quality education. But what about another institution of civil society that might actually play a bigger role in upward mobility and human flourishing?

On this episode we profile the recently created Utah Office of Families and show you why the best way to equip children with the tools for a successful life is to elevate the importance of strong, stable and healthy families.

Host Nic Dunn sits down with guest Aimee Winder Newton, senior advisor to Utah Gov. Spencer Cox and director of the Office of Families. Aimee outlines an approach to family policy in Utah that seeks to support and strengthen all families, while recognizing the positive impact that married couple households have on child outcomes.

They also discuss the importance of education, work, and marriage before childbearing (the success sequence) as a framework for the next generation – and talk about why better tracking of family structure data is crucial for good policymaking. 

Defending Ideas is a weekly podcast produced by Sutherland Institute. On this show we are committed to renewing the principles of common sense conservatism, equipping listeners to become more effective champions of sound principle and good policy. Visit defendingideas.org.