How to Say No to Hookup Culture (Trending with Timmerie)

On Trending with Timmerie, host Timmerie looks at a surprising Gen Z shift: women saying no to casual sex and stepping away from hookup culture. A 2025 national study on modern love and dating, conducted with datingadvice.com and the Kinsey Institute, points to a quiet revolution: fewer one-night stands, fewer no-commitment relationships, and a growing share of Gen Z calling themselves “celibate” or abstinent. Casual intimacy often leaves women anxious and distressed, because their bodies and souls are wired for real commitment. Women carry babies, release more oxytocin during intimacy, and bond more deeply after sex. That design is a gift when intimacy is lived as a conjugal union within marriage – ordered to the good of spouses, children, and our sanctification. But knowing you don’t want hookup culture is one thing; knowing how to say no is another. Drawing on Sarah Hernholm’s work at Evie Magazine, Timmerie walks through scenarios with concrete phrases: “I’m not feeling like having this tonight.” “I’m not comfortable continuing.” “I’m not doing casual anymore. If you want to keep seeing me, let’s date.” Clear, calm words that leave no room for negotiation. She even addresses unsafe situations, urging women to leave quickly and without apology – your safety comes first. After years in crisis-pregnancy work and sidewalk counseling, Timmerie has seen how a firm “no” can protect your life and future. And when we fall, Christ never leaves us stuck: we keep practicing chastity, get back up, and run again to the healing Sacrament of Reconciliation. The best way to listen to the Best of the Week is on our #1 Free Catholic App. It’s free, and always will be! To get and share the Relevant Radio app, check it out here.