From Statehouse to Seasons: Jena Powell on Politics, Purpose & Protecting Life

What does it take to become the youngest woman ever elected to the Ohio legislature—and then choose to step away? Jena Powell joins us to share her journey from small-town entrepreneur to state representative, and why she believes true influence comes from embracing life’s seasons.In this conversation, Jena opens up about:Her fight to pass landmark legislation like the Heartbeat Bill and Save Women’s Sports.The tension between “boss babe” and “trad wife” culture—and her alternative vision for women.Why local politics matter more than ever in a post-Roe America.The courage it takes to run for office young, and the freedom of knowing your season.Whether you’re wrestling with career, calling, or culture wars, Jena’s story will inspire you to step up, speak out, and live faithfully in your season.01:07 – Introduction to Jena Powell and her roots in Ohio02:07 – Serving six years in the state legislature at just 2503:07 – The Heartbeat Bill, Save Women’s Sports, and fighting uphill battles06:07 – Early foundations: homeschool life, family values, and starting college at 1309:07 – Boss Babe vs. Trad Wife: why neither path is enough12:07 – Seeing life in seasons: balancing motherhood, politics, and business14:07 – The advantages of being a young woman in politics17:07 – Why state politics matter more than Congress in daily life20:07 – The power of five phone calls: how citizens truly influence legislators24:07 – Running for office young: rejection, resilience, and victory28:07 – Life after office: faithfulness in new seasons34:07 – Building a culture that values and protects life38:07 – How Gen Z women can get involved and make a difference today40:07 – Where to connect with Jena PowellGenZ 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.