The 1000 Hours Outside Podcast 1KHO 627: Children Are a Reward Not a Regret| Abbie Halberstadt, You Bet Your Stretch Marks
Nov 21, 2025
In this engaging discussion, bestselling author Abbie Halberstadt, a mother of ten, lovingly challenges societal views of children as burdens. She explores the cultural shift away from parenthood and shares her unique journey through motherhood, including the life lessons learned from raising a large family. With humor and honesty, Abbie reflects on the beauty of stretch marks, the patience gained through parenting, and the profound impact of trusting God for daily provision, making a compelling case for embracing the rewards of motherhood over societal pressures.
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From Busy Mama To Trilogy Author
- Abbie had five children by age 29 and eventually ten children in 14 years, including two sets of twins.
- She never imagined becoming an author until a publisher approached her six years ago and launched a trilogy.
Rising Child Aversion In Western Culture
- Western societies are becoming markedly child-averse, with nearly half of adults under 50 unlikely to have children.
- Cultural forces like feminism, control, and comfort reshape priorities away from family toward self-centered goals.
Equality Mindset Reframes Motherhood
- Feminist ideas about equal outcomes have de-prioritized motherhood for many women, even self-identified conservatives.
- When childbearing prevents identical workplace outcomes, some treat parenting as a liability, not a calling.
