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.
Are you economically better off today than four years ago?
Are you better off today than you were four years ago?
How marriage and family impact America’s civic health
As the policy implications of intact families gain traction in public debate, one positive impact of healthy marriages and strong families often gets ignored: civic engagement.
Family relationships are an antidote to America’s loneliness epidemic
Public discussions of "the good life" usually center on things like a quality job, decent pay and other benefits that are primarily material. But what if – as a society – we're missing the things that truly impact happiness and human flourishing?
Utah voters support the success sequence
New survey data shows that a majority of likely voters in Utah support the concepts of the success sequence and approve of teaching them in schools. So, when critics still push back against the sequence – education, work, and marriage before kids – as one of the best frameworks for avoiding poverty and living a successful and happy life, what's the best response?
How family policy debates sometimes ignore the family itself
Debates about family policy often focus on an array of programs or interventions like licensed child care, pre-K, or the K-12 education system. But all too often, the family itself as an optimal environment for the healthy development of young children – and a fundamental institution of civil society – gets left out of the discussion.
Agency over equity: Ian Rowe on a better vision for upward mobility
Many public policy debates in recent years have focused on the concept of equity, and what impact race and ethnicity have on opportunity for the next generation. This week's podcast guest believes we need to replace equity with agency, as a more compelling – and more effective – vision to help young people of all races lead successful and fulfilling lives.
Antisemitism in America: Rabbi Chaim Zippel on the aftermath of the Hamas attack in Israel
Rabbi Chaim Zippel was in Israel with his wife and infant son on the day of the Hamas terrorist attack. He recounts his experience.
Should government promote marriage?
Marriage is often viewed as a personal matter that isn't usually included in public policy discussions. But a growing body of evidence shows that strong families, anchored by healthy marriages, are among the biggest drivers of upward mobility and long-term success for the next generation.
Why America needs a new welfare reform movement
A coalition of state-level policy think tanks called the Alliance for Opportunity is working to bring 1 million Americans out of poverty in ten years.
Can “Freedom Conservatism” save a movement? With John Hood
Do we need to reinvigorate the conservative movement, and is "Freedom Conservatism" the answer?
Is America more “Family Unfriendly” today? With Tim Carney
Is it harder to raise kids today than it was in years or decades past? For many current or prospective parents, this question may often be top of mind as they navigate decisions about marriage and family.
Utah’s pricey housing market – and how to fix it
Beth Akers sits down with local and national housing experts to help listeners understand the housing problem, and what state leaders in Utah are doing about it.
