In this episode of the Nuclear Option Podcast, Pastor Chris and Aziza discuss the challenges of caregiving for elderly adults and the financial burdens it places on families. The conversation highlights the need for policy changes to support caregivers. The Butlers also introduce the concept of positivity jars as a practice to foster gratitude and encouragement within families. Finally, they chat about how new research reinforcing the idea that families play a crucial role in society by driving down crime rates.

Key Takeaways

• Families are a public good and essential to society.
• 63 million Americans are caregivers for elderly adults.
• The financial burden of caregiving is significant and often falls on families.
• Community support is vital for families caring for elders.
• Elder care costs are often overlooked in policy discussions.
• Bipartisan support exists for policies to aid caregivers.
• Positivity jars can help families focus on the good.
• Practicing gratitude can strengthen family bonds.
• Families contribute to lower crime rates in communities.
• Encouraging family structures can enhance public safety.

Chapters

00:00 Intro and Call to Action - Share the Nuclear Option

03:56 The Politics of Caregiving

13:06 The Practice of Positivity Jars

21:22 The Promise of Lowering Crime by Raising up Families

Links

Politics: Policy relief for family caregivers seems stalled out. But there are signs of change.

https://www.npr.org/2025/12/30/nx-s1-5660935/family-caregiver-support-policies-states

Practice: Positivity jars can help families focus on the good.

https://theburgnews.com/home-front/adventure-together-start-the-new-year-off-right-with-positivity-jars-family-sports-and-giving-back

Promise: nuclear families as a dominant norm predicts public safety.

https://ifstudies.org/report-brief/stronger-families-safer-streets

In this episode of the Nuclear Option Podcast, hosts Pastor Chris and Aziza Butler discuss the intersection of family and technology, advocating for pro-family tech policies that prioritize human connection and ethical considerations. The conversation highlights the significance of community service as a means to strengthen family bonds and combat societal loneliness. The episode concludes by underscoring the promise of family in fostering emotional and social support in an increasingly fragmented world.

Links

The Politics of Pro-Family Tech Policy: https://firstthings.com/a-future-for-the-family-a-new-technology-agenda-for-the-right/ 

The Practice of Family Service: 

https://theburgnews.com/home-front/adventure-together-start-the-new-year-off-right-with-positivity-jars-family-sports-and-giving-back

The Promise of Family Kin Networks as a Solution for Loneliness: https://www.city-journal.org/article/alone

Chapters

00:00 - The Politics of Pro-Family Tech Policy

26:06 - The Practice of Family Service

36:29 - The Promise of Family Kin Networks as a Solution for Loneliness

The Nuclear Option is a Production of the We School Education Foundation. For more information, visit our website: https://www.weschoolfoundation.org/

In this episode of the Nuclear Option Podcast, Pastor Chris and Aziza Butler delve into the intricate relationship between family dynamics and societal structures. They kick off the conversation by emphasizing the importance of family as a public good, especially in the context of the upcoming 2026 midterm elections. The discussion starts with a thought-provoking analysis of an article from the Institute of Family Studies, which posits that a household income of $100,000 is now considered the new poverty line. Pastor Chris and Aziza explore the implications of this shift, particularly the necessity for dual-income households and the societal pressures that accompany it. They advocate for policies that support single-income families, highlighting the benefits of having a parent at home to nurture children and strengthen community ties. The episode also features a segment on innovative family activities, introducing a new product called Bible Bricks, which combines play with biblical education. They discuss the educational benefits of hands-on learning. Finally, regarding the promise of family life, they discuss the importance of intergenerational family gatherings. They share personal anecdotes about their own family experiences, emphasizing the value of storytelling and connection across generations. The episode concludes with a heartfelt reminder of the significance of family in shaping society and the need for supportive policies that empower families to thrive.

Links

"Can Your Family Survive on One Income? Public Policy Should Do More to Help" - https://ifstudies.org/blog/can-your-family-survive-on-one-income-public-policy-should-do-more-to-help-

Bible Bricks - https://biblebricks.com/

Intergenerational Gatherings - https://elderhealthathome.com/how-to-host-a-great-intergenerational-family-gathering/

Chapters

00:00 Politics - Pro-family Economic Policy

10:15 Practice - Bible Bricks, Hands-On Learning

19:27 Promise - Intergenerational Family Gatherings

Keywords

family dynamics, public good, single-income households, Bible Bricks, intergenerational gatherings, family education, societal structures, parenting, community ties, midterm elections

In this bonus episode of the Nuclear Option Podcast, Pastor Chris and Aziza discuss the so-called 'Trump Account,' a savings program aimed at providing financial support for children born after January 1, 2025. The hosts express their views on the potential benefits of this program, emphasizing its role in promoting financial security for families and the importance of universal access to such initiatives. They also touch on the implications of this program for inflation and the broader economic landscape, arguing that investing in families can be a positive step forward.

Transitioning to the practice of family, Aziza highlights the benefits of family game nights, emphasizing how board games can foster communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills among family members. The couple shares personal anecdotes about their own family game nights, illustrating how these activities can strengthen bonds and create lasting memories.

They conclude by discussing the promise of family, particularly the value of sibling relationships in navigating marriage and interpersonal conflicts.

The episode wraps up with a call to action for listeners to support one another and recognize the importance of strong family units in society.

Chapters

00:00 Politics - Investing in Family Values

09:39 Practice - Family Game Nights

18:13 Promise - Siblings Train us for Healthy Families

About the Hosts
Chris Butler is a pastor, organizer, and leader hailing from the Southside of Chicago. He and his amazing wife, Aziza lead Chicago Ambassador Church and have six wonderful children. Having worked across the spectrum of organizations and types of engagement, Chris often lends insight and leadership on organization building and civic engagement to elected officials, organization leaders, community organizers, and other leaders in the faith community. Pastor Chris co-authored “Compassion and Conviction: The AND Campaigns Guide To Faithful Civic Engagement” with Justin Giboney and Micheal Wear.

Aziza Butler is the founder of WeSchool Academy in Chicago, IL, developed to equip homeschooling families on the city’s South Side. Aziza presents urban homeschooling as a viable option to all families, especially of color, while developing strong Parent Educators. Since 2017, she has pioneered the “City As Campus” approach to learning through the WeSchool (a flexible-schedule learning community) which continues to grow.

Chris and Aziza are senior leaders at Ambassador Church in the Chicagoland Area. Married 18 years, they live in a southside neighborhood of Chicago and never have a dull moment as they raise their six children: Azaria, Corban, Azadi, Christopher Anthony, Azeem, and Cole.

Podcast Website: https://www.weschoolfoundation.org/nuclear_option

Community & Calls to Action

Rate and review us! This is the most impactful way to support the show.

Share this episode with a friend! If you enjoyed it, tag us on social media and let us know your favorite takeaway.

Keywords

Nuclear Option Podcast, family politics, Trump Account, family savings, family game night, sibling relationships, family bonding, parenting tips, financial security, family communication, siblings

Episode 8 Show Notes 

This week we explore the significant impact of housing affordability on family planning, particularly among millennials and Gen Z. It highlights how economic factors, such as the high cost of housing, deter young couples from having children, despite their desire for family life. The discussion emphasizes the need for affordable housing as a crucial element of a pro-family stance.

Takeaways

• Housing affordability is a major factor in family planning decisions.

• Many millennials and Gen Z are choosing not to have children due to high costs.

• Affordable family housing should be a priority for pro-family advocates.

• Economic pressures are reshaping family structures and decisions.

• The narrative around family planning must include housing issues.

• Pro-family policies must address housing affordability to be effective.

• The rising cost of living directly impacts fertility rates.

• Support for affordable housing is essential for family growth.

• Young couples desire families but face financial barriers.

• A true pro-family stance includes advocating for affordable housing.

Chapters

[00:00] The Power of Family in Today's World

[00:38] The Importance of Apologizing to Children

Host & Show Info

• Host Name: Pastor Chris & Aziza Butler

• About the Host: 

Chris Butler is a pastor, organizer, and leader hailing from the Southside of Chicago. He and his amazing wife, Aziza lead Chicago Ambassador Church and have six wonderful children. Having worked across the spectrum of organizations and types of engagement, Chris often lends insight and leadership on organization building and civic engagement to elected officials, organization leaders, community organizers, and other leaders in the faith community. Pastor Chris co-authored “Compassion and Conviction: The AND Campaigns Guide To Faithful Civic Engagement” with Justin Giboney and Micheal Wear.

Aziza Butler is the founder of WeSchool Academy in Chicago, IL, developed to equip homeschooling families on the city’s South Side. Aziza presents urban homeschooling as a viable option to all families, especially of color, while developing strong Parent Educators. Since 2017, she has pioneered the “City As Campus” approach to learning through the WeSchool (a flexible-schedule learning community) which continues to grow.

Chris and Aziza are senior leaders at Ambassador Church in the Chicagoland Area. Married 18 years, they live in a southside neighborhood of Chicago and never have a dull moment as they raise their six children: Azaria, Corban, Azadi, Christopher Anthony, Azeem, and Cole.

• Podcast Website: https://www.weschoolfoundation.org/nuclear_option 

Community & Calls to Action

• Primary CTA: Rate & Review on Apple Podcasts – This is the most impactful way to support the show. 

• Share this episode with a friend! If you enjoyed it, tag us on social media and let us know your favorite takeaway.

In this episode of the Nuclear Option Podcast, Chris and Aziza Butler discuss the significance of the nuclear family in today's society. They explore the implications of government policies like SNAP benefits, the importance of physical affection through hugging, and present research that highlights the correlation between family structure and economic mobility. The conversation emphasizes the role of families as a public good and the positive ripple effects they have on communities and future generations.

Episode Outline

1. The Politics - SNAP Benefits

2. The Practice - Long Hugs

• An article in Psychology Today cites health benefits of hugging

• An article in Today’s Parent specifically talks about the benefits of longer hugs (20 seconds) in the family context. 

3. The Promise - The Impact of Nuclear Family on Economic Growth

Host & Show Info

• Host Name: Pastor Chris & Aziza Butler

• About the Host: 

Chris Butler is a pastor, organizer, and leader hailing from the Southside of Chicago. He and his amazing wife, Aziza lead Chicago Ambassador Church and have six wonderful children. Having worked across the spectrum of organizations and types of engagement, Chris often lends insight and leadership on organization building and civic engagement to elected officials, organization leaders, community organizers, and other leaders in the faith community. Pastor Chris co-authored “Compassion and Conviction: The AND Campaigns Guide To Faithful Civic Engagement” with Justin Giboney and Micheal Wear.

Aziza Butler is the founder of WeSchool Academy in Chicago, IL, developed to equip homeschooling families on the city’s South Side. Aziza presents urban homeschooling as a viable option to all families, especially of color, while developing strong Parent Educators. Since 2017, she has pioneered the “City As Campus” approach to learning through the WeSchool (a flexible-schedule learning community) which continues to grow.

Chris and Aziza are senior leaders at Ambassador Church in the Chicagoland Area. Married 18 years, they live in a southside neighborhood of Chicago and never have a dull moment as they raise their six children: Azaria, Corban, Azadi, Christopher Anthony, Azeem, and Cole.

• Podcast Website: https://www.weschoolfoundation.org/nuclear_option 

Community & Calls to Action

• Primary CTA: Rate & Review on Apple Podcasts – This is the most impactful way to support the show. [Include link]

Share this episode with a friend! If you enjoyed it, tag us on social media and let us know your favorite takeaway.

The conversation emphasizes the critical role of family formation in discussions about poverty, income inequality, and education gaps. It highlights the need for policymakers to include family dynamics in their strategies to address these issues, arguing that neglecting this aspect is intellectually dishonest.

Host & Show Info

• Host Name: Pastor Chris & Aziza Butler

• About the Host: 

Chris Butler is a pastor, organizer, and leader hailing from the Southside of Chicago. He and his amazing wife, Aziza lead Chicago Ambassador Church and have six wonderful children. Having worked across the spectrum of organizations and types of engagement, Chris often lends insight and leadership on organization building and civic engagement to elected officials, organization leaders, community organizers, and other leaders in the faith community. Pastor Chris co-authored “Compassion and Conviction: The AND Campaigns Guide To Faithful Civic Engagement” with Justin Giboney and Micheal Wear.

Aziza Butler is the founder of WeSchool Academy in Chicago, IL, developed to equip homeschooling families on the city’s South Side. Aziza presents urban homeschooling as a viable option to all families, especially of color, while developing strong Parent Educators. Since 2017, she has pioneered the “City As Campus” approach to learning through the WeSchool (a flexible-schedule learning community) which continues to grow.

Chris and Aziza are senior leaders at Ambassador Church in the Chicagoland Area. Married 18 years, they live in a southside neighborhood of Chicago and never have a dull moment as they raise their six children: Azaria, Corban, Azadi, Christopher Anthony, Azeem, and Cole.

• Podcast Website: https://www.weschoolfoundation.org/nuclear_option 

Community & Calls to Action

• Primary CTA: Rate & Review on Apple Podcasts – This is the most impactful way to support the show. [Include link]

Share this episode with a friend! If you enjoyed it, tag us on social media and let us know your favorite takeaway.

Show Notes 

The conversation explores the significance of traditional family structures and the contradictions present in political discourse regarding family dynamics. Pastor Chris emphasizes the advantages that come from strong family ties and work ethics, while also highlighting the disconnect between political rhetoric and personal practices.

Episode Outline

1. The Politics, Practice & Promise of Family - The Contradictions in Family Politics

• The gap between what people say and what they do on family

2. Takeaways

• Traditional family structures provide significant advantages for children.

• Strong work ethics are often rooted in family dynamics.

• There is a contradiction in how family is perceived politically.

• Many who criticize traditional family values still adhere to them personally.

• Social networks play a crucial role in community support.

• Political discourse often overlooks the benefits of family structures.

• The personal lives of critics can contradict their public statements.

• Family dynamics are essential for societal stability.

• Cultural narratives around family can be misleading.

• Understanding family structures is vital for effective policymaking.

Host & Show Info

• Host Name: Pastor Chris & Aziza Butler

• About the Host: 

Chris Butler is a pastor, organizer, and leader hailing from the Southside of Chicago. He and his amazing wife, Aziza lead Chicago Ambassador Church and have six wonderful children. Having worked across the spectrum of organizations and types of engagement, Chris often lends insight and leadership on organization building and civic engagement to elected officials, organization leaders, community organizers, and other leaders in the faith community. Pastor Chris co-authored “Compassion and Conviction: The AND Campaigns Guide To Faithful Civic Engagement” with Justin Giboney and Micheal Wear.

Aziza Butler is the founder of WeSchool Academy in Chicago, IL, developed to equip homeschooling families on the city’s South Side. Aziza presents urban homeschooling as a viable option to all families, especially of color, while developing strong Parent Educators. Since 2017, she has pioneered the “City As Campus” approach to learning through the WeSchool (a flexible-schedule learning community) which continues to grow.

Chris and Aziza are senior leaders at Ambassador Church in the Chicagoland Area. Married 18 years, they live in a southside neighborhood of Chicago and never have a dull moment as they raise their six children: Azaria, Corban, Azadi, Christopher Anthony, Azeem, and Cole.

• Podcast Website: https://www.weschoolfoundation.org/nuclear_option 

Community & Calls to Action

E5 Show Notes

From the overarching narrative of the Virginia governor’s race to misconceptions about siblings and family activities, Pastor Chris & Aziza highlight how arguments about family are frequently skewed to undermine the true experience of everyday people.

Episode Outline

1. The Politics - VA Governor’s Race

• This race is not about a choice between jobs and parental rights. It’s about something that deeply impacts families.

• https://www.christianitytoday.com/2025/10/virginia-governor-race-abigail-spanberger-winsome-earle-sears-jay-jones/

2. The Practice - Walking Together as a Family

• https://www.verywellhealth.com/walking-after-eating-8697719

• https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3119587/

• https://slate.com/life/2024/10/after-dinner-walk-benefits-mental-health.html 

3. The Promise - The Benefit of Siblings

• There are transferable skills that are acquired through healthy sibling/family relationships (conflict resolution, diplomacy, networking, team work, etc)

• https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/your-emotional-meter/202505/siblings-and-their-lasting-impact

• https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/brothers-sisters-strangers/202302/how-siblings-contribute-to-the-good-life

• https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-science-of-siblings/202307/sibling-conflict-is-an-opportunity-for-children-to-grow 

• https://www.nichd.nih.gov/newsroom/news/062618-siblings

Related Episodes & Additional Resources

• [The Standard: Academics, Date Nights & Framed Photos] – For tips on more romantic walks without the kids [https://open.spotify.com/episode/494w6a6KB6GT8zQNSJtjjp?si=e0GebvSKT-e397MYbZESfQ] 

Host & Show Info

• Host Name: Pastor Chris & Aziza Butler

• About the Host: 

Chris Butler is a pastor, organizer, and leader hailing from the Southside of Chicago. He and his amazing wife, Aziza lead Chicago Ambassador Church and have six wonderful children. Having worked across the spectrum of organizations and types of engagement, Chris often lends insight and leadership on organization building and civic engagement to elected officials, organization leaders, community organizers, and other leaders in the faith community. Pastor Chris co-authored “Compassion and Conviction: The AND Campaigns Guide To Faithful Civic Engagement” with Justin Giboney and Micheal Wear.

Aziza Butler is the founder of WeSchool Academy in Chicago, IL, developed to equip homeschooling families on the city’s South Side. Aziza presents urban homeschooling as a viable option to all families, especially of color, while developing strong Parent Educators. Since 2017, she has pioneered the “City As Campus” approach to learning through the WeSchool (a flexible-schedule learning community) which continues to grow.

Chris and Aziza are senior leaders at Ambassador Church in the Chicagoland Area. Married 18 years, they live in a southside neighborhood of Chicago and never have a dull moment as they raise their six children: Azaria, Corban, Azadi, Christopher Anthony, Azeem, and Cole.

• Podcast Website: https://www.weschoolfoundation.org/nuclear_option 

Community & Calls to Action(Choose 1-2 calls to action for best engagement. Too many options may reduce clicks.)

• Primary CTA: Rate & Review on Spotify & Apple Podcasts – This is the most impactful way to support the show.

Share this episode with a friend! If you enjoyed it, tag us on social media and let us know your favorite takeaway.

Episode 4: Show Notes  

In this episode of the Nuclear Option Podcast, Chris and Aziza Butler explore the significance of the nuclear family in contemporary society. They discuss the political implications of family dynamics, particularly in relation to a Harvard sociologist's claims about marriage and its impact on black families. The conversation transitions into practical family engagement activities, highlighting the benefits of using question cards to foster communication among family members. Finally, they address the promise of family in shaping community policies, emphasizing the importance of family-oriented approaches in legislation.

Episode Outline

[02:15] The Politics - Debunking “The Myth of the Two-Parent Home”

- https://www.aaronrenn.com/p/two-parents

- https://time.com/6317692/u-s-economy-two-parent-families/

- https://www.thefp.com/p/why-two-parents-are-the-ultimate-privilege

- https://cbmw.org/2022/05/23/the-power-of-the-two-parent-home/

[08:56] The Practice - Family Conversation Starter Cards

- https://talkingpointcards.com/collections/family

- https://cultivatewhatmatters.com/products/faith-kids-conversation-card-deck?srsltid=AfmBOop72HlH_sVGJm8eYTiDw3S3flYQxTnEiFcplR7ub76CXHx6Xtz3

- https://www.christianbook.com/question-conversation-meaningful-questions-discussions-anywhere/9780593231821/pd/3231821?srsltid=AfmBOooor-ZTOLFPdr3HE8J8BV3XGtrFto3m7HVYscRcqHZM9pu3Gzqk

[16:31] The Promise - Chicago “Granny Flats” and the Family Framework in Policy

- https://theconversation.com/how-building-more-backyard-homes-granny-flats-and-in-law-suites-can-help-alleviate-the-housing-crisis-204341

- https://abc7chicago.com/post/chicago-granny-flats-proposal-moves-forward-council-adlermen-reach-compromise/17872354/

- https://www.nbcmiami.com/news/local/florida-legislature-considers-granny-flats-amid-housing-problems/3567972/

- https://au.finance.yahoo.com/news/aussie-mums-250000-backyard-granny-flat-solution-as-kids-face-uphill-battle-so-expensive-054758290.html

- https://homewip.com/granny-flat-ideas/

Related Episodes & Additional Resources

• [E1: The Pilot] – Learn more about another way we promote dialogue in our family: Butler Cafe!

Host & Show Info

• Host Name: Pastor Chris & Aziza Butler

• About the Host: 

Chris Butler is a pastor, organizer, and leader hailing from the Southside of Chicago. He and his amazing wife, Aziza lead Chicago Ambassador Church and have six wonderful children. Having worked across the spectrum of organizations and types of engagement, Chris often lends insight and leadership on organization building and civic engagement to elected officials, organization leaders, community organizers, and other leaders in the faith community. Pastor Chris co-authored “Compassion and Conviction: The AND Campaigns Guide To Faithful Civic Engagement” with Justin Giboney and Micheal Wear.

Aziza Butler is the founder of WeSchool Academy in Chicago, IL, developed to equip homeschooling families on the city’s South Side. Aziza presents urban homeschooling as a viable option to all families, especially of color, while developing strong Parent Educators. Since 2017, she has pioneered the “City As Campus” approach to learning through the WeSchool (a flexible-schedule learning community) which continues to grow.

Chris and Aziza are senior leaders at Ambassador Church in the Chicagoland Area. Married 18 years, they live in a southside neighborhood of Chicago and never have a dull moment as they raise their six children: Azaria, Corban, Azadi, Christopher Anthony, Azeem, and Cole.

• Podcast Website: https://www.weschoolfoundation.org/nuclear_option 

Community & Calls to Action

• Rate & Review on Spotify & Apple Podcasts – This is the most impactful way to support the show. [Include link]

Share this episode with a friend! If you enjoyed it, tag us on social media and let us know your favorite takeaway.