Curious Life of a Childfree Woman

What if clutter wasn’t just about a messy drawer, but about our self-worth, our health, and even our happiness?In this episode, Emily Paulsen speaks with Sarah Parisi, founder of The Clutter Curator, a psychology-based professional organizing company that helps people design homes that actually support the way they want to live. Sarah has guided countless clients through pivotal life transitions, whether moving, downsizing, or simply seeking more peace, and she brings a unique approach that goes far beyond bins and labels.Their conversation explores the psychology of why we hold onto things, how consumer culture fuels guilt and overwhelm, and why editing with intention can be more powerful than purging. From self-worth and boundaries to dopamine hits and daily habits, Sarah reveals how decluttering can free up time, energy, and even improve mental and physical health.This episode is for anyone who wants their home to feel calmer, more intentional, and aligned with the life they’re living now, not the one they used to live or feel pressured to maintain.Key TakeawaysEdit with intention: Organizing isn’t about purging everything, it’s about consciously choosing what stays to support your lifestyle.Vision leads the way: A clear picture of how you want your home to feel makes it easier to let go of what no longer fits.Worthiness matters: Believing you deserve a supportive, clutter-free home is the foundation of lasting change.Celebrate the reset: A true reset, resetting closets, kitchens, or routines, creates clarity and a sustainable fresh start.Reframe the “warm and fuzzy”: Shift the satisfaction from acquiring or donating to celebrating what you didn’t buy in the first place.___ Host Emily Paulsen is an accomplished entrepreneur and happily childfree woman shining a light on the often overshadowed childfree-by-choice perspective. Whether interviewing innovative experts or positioning leaders to scale through her Brand Studio, Electric Collab, Emily’s power lies in allowing people to feel seen and celebrated for who they are. She’s spent years honing the ability to deeply understand and amplify others in an honest, high-impact way.Learn more about Emily at: www.curiouslifeofachildfreewoman.comConnect on Instagram: @curiouslifeofachildfreewoman___The guest on this episode, Sarah Parisi, is the founder of The Clutter Curator, a Chicago-based professional organizing company that blends psychology and practical systems to help clients create homes that feel peaceful and supportive. With a background in guiding people through life transitions, Sarah and her team focus on reshaping habits and mindsets, highlighting what truly supports a client’s lifestyle, and teaching the joy of owning less.Connect with Sarah: www.thecluttercurator.comFollow on Instagram: @the_clutter_curator

What if success didn’t have to feel so heavy? And what if intuition and strategy could work together to unlock possibilities we can’t even imagine?In this episode, Emily Paulsen speaks with Victoria Song, leadership advisor, venture capitalist turned performance coach, and author of Bending Reality. Victoria has worked with leaders across industries, from the families of LeBron James and Elon Musk to entrepreneurs and creatives, helping them clear limiting beliefs, dissolve contraction, and experience what she calls “quantum leaps.”Their conversation explores the balance of logic and intuition, why our conditioning often leads us to chase the wrong things, and how to reframe “hard work” in a way that feels aligned rather than exhausting. From self-worth and limiting beliefs to expansion, joy, and the real meaning of readiness, Victoria reveals how bending reality isn’t about shortcuts, it’s about shifting the way we relate to possibility.This episode is for anyone who has ever felt stuck in overwork, disconnected from joy, or ready to explore a new paradigm of success, creativity, and fulfillment.👉 Victoria is also sharing access to her most popular masterclass, The GOAT Method, which brings together the exact frameworks and practices she teaches her private clients. It’s a powerful way to experience her work firsthand—and as a listener, you can get access at a discounted rate here: https://victoria-song.mykajabi.com/a/2148120895/Qy2YH3azKey TakeawaysIntuition as untapped data: Our gut instincts process information beyond what the five senses can capture, learning to trust them gives us access to shortcuts our linear mind can’t see.Low-stakes practice builds trust: Strengthening intuition starts small, like following a nudge to call a friend or choosing a new path on a weekend, and compounds into bigger decisions over time.Contraction drains success: Beliefs rooted in scarcity, overwork, or fear create heaviness in the body and bend outcomes against us; expansion lightens energy and invites possibility.Focus on super strengths: Instead of doubling down on weaknesses, identify the gifts that feel natural, joyful, and energizing, those are the true levers of success.Joy as soul language: What lights us up isn’t frivolous, it’s a signpost of our purpose. Following it creates alignment between our deepest calling and daily actions.___ Host Emily Paulsen is an accomplished entrepreneur and happily childfree woman shining a light on the often overshadowed childfree-by-choice perspective. Whether interviewing innovative experts or positioning leaders to scale through her Brand Studio, Electric Collab, Emily’s power lies in allowing people to feel seen and celebrated for who they are. She’s spent years honing the ability to deeply understand and amplify others in an honest, high-impact way.Learn more about Emily at: www.curiouslifeofachildfreewoman.comConnect on Instagram: @curiouslifeofachildfreewoman___The guest on this episode, Victoria Song, is a leadership advisor, venture capitalist turned performance coach, and bestselling author of Bending Reality. She works with top performers across tech, sports, entertainment, and business, helping them dissolve limiting beliefs, expand their vision, and achieve what once seemed impossible.Connect with Victoria: https://victoria-song.com

What does it mean to be living through a loneliness epidemic?In this episode, Emily Paulsen speaks with Dr. Jody Carrington, psychologist, bestselling author, and host of the UnLonely Podcast, about why disconnection has become one of the greatest challenges of our time, and what we can do to repair it. Jody unpacks how technology, shifting family structures, and cultural expectations have created a crisis of connection, and why the antidote isn’t more information but more authentic interaction.Their conversation explores what loneliness actually is (and isn’t), the role of childhood and attachment in shaping our capacity for connection, and why simple acts like eye contact, ritual, and presence can radically shift our nervous systems. From the “discipline of reconnection” to redefining community and choice, Jody offers both a hopeful perspective and concrete steps for rebuilding the connections we need most.This episode is for anyone curious about how to navigate loneliness, strengthen relationships, and live with more presence and joy in a noisy, distracted world.Key TakeawaysLoneliness is not the same as being alone: It’s an emotion that can show up in crowded rooms, marriages, or friendships, and addressing it requires understanding, not just company.Connection is neurobiology, not preference: We are wired for attachment, and our nervous systems regulate best when we’re with others we trust.Rituals and rhythms matter: Predictable practices, whether traditions, weekly meetups, or shared routines, help ground us and create stability in relationships.Authentic interaction is the real AI: No technology can replicate the neurochemical benefits of genuine human presence, eye contact, and touch.The discipline of reconnection: Building healthier communities and relationships requires intentional practices, charging phones outside the bedroom, practicing stillness, or simply waving at a neighbor.___ Host Emily Paulsen is an accomplished entrepreneur and happily childfree woman shining a light on the often overshadowed childfree-by-choice perspective. Whether interviewing innovative experts or positioning leaders to scale through her Brand Studio, Electric Collab, Emily’s power lies in allowing people to feel seen and celebrated for who they are. She’s spent years honing the ability to deeply understand and amplify others in an honest, high-impact way.Learn more about Emily at: www.curiouslifeofachildfreewoman.comConnect on Instagram: @curiouslifeofachildfreewoman___The guest on this episode, Dr. Jody Carrington, is a psychologist, bestselling author, and speaker who has dedicated her career to helping people understand disconnection and build stronger bonds. She is the founder of Carrington & Co. and the host of the UnLonely Podcast, where she continues her mission to inspire reconnection and resilience.Connect with Jody:Website: www.drjodycarrington.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjodycarringtonPodcast: UnLonely Podcast

What does it mean to be part of the largest wealth transfer in history?In this episode, Emily Paulsen speaks with Nicole Meihofer, financial advisor, wealth strategist, and founder of Pearlvest Capital, about the trillions of dollars shifting from baby boomers to millennials and Gen X. Nicole unpacks what this transfer means for individuals, especially those who are childfree and may inherit wealth from parents, grandparents, or other relatives.Their conversation goes far beyond numbers, exploring the emotions, opportunities, and challenges tied to inheritance. From trusts and family businesses to lifestyle spending and legacy, Nicole shares both the tactical steps and the bigger-picture mindset shifts millennials need when navigating unexpected wealth. She also emphasizes why financial planning isn’t just about the future, it’s about aligning money with the life and values we want right now.This episode is for anyone curious about inheritance, legacy, or how to approach money as a tool for joy, fulfillment, and impact in the present.Key TakeawaysOpen communication matters: Proactive conversations with family about inheritance expectations help avoid confusion, stress, and financial missteps.Assemble a financial board of directors: Surrounding yourself with a trusted CPA, estate attorney, and financial advisor ensures you’re prepared to steward wealth wisely.Spending is part of planning: Financial planning isn’t just about saving, it’s about identifying what brings joy and making intentional choices to spend on it.Investments should serve your goals: Understanding fees, structures, and strategies helps ensure your money is fueling your life plan, not just sitting in accounts.Legacy is more than money: Millennials are redefining impact by creating businesses, jobs, and charitable contributions that reflect their values.___ Host Emily Paulsen is an accomplished entrepreneur and happily childfree woman shining a light on the often overshadowed childfree-by-choice perspective. Whether interviewing innovative experts or positioning leaders to scale through her Brand Studio, Electric Collab, Emily’s power lies in allowing people to feel seen and celebrated for who they are. She’s spent years honing the ability to deeply understand and amplify others in an honest, high-impact way.Learn more about Emily at: www.curiouslifeofachildfreewoman.comConnect on Instagram: @curiouslifeofachildfreewoman___The guest on this episode, Nicole Meihofer, is a financial advisor, wealth strategist, and founder of Pearlvest Capital. She specializes in guiding millennial inheritors and entrepreneurs through wealth-building strategies that enrich life today while securing tomorrow. Nicole is registered with IHT Wealth LLC, a registered investment advisor with the SEC. Opinions expressed are her own and for informational purposes only.Connect with Nicole:Website: www.pearlvest.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolemeihoferweigel/

Most of us avoid talking about death but avoiding it doesn’t make it go away. In fact, learning how to approach death may be one of the clearest ways to understand life.In this episode, Emily Paulsen speaks with Kacie Gikonyo, a former nurse turned death doula educator and founder of Death Doula School. With over a decade of experience guiding people and families through the end of life, Kacie brings compassion, clarity, and a deep belief that end-of-life planning isn’t about morbidity, it’s about literacy, legacy, and presence.Their conversation explores what it really means to “labor out of life,” how to plan for end of life long before it’s urgent, and why normalizing death can reduce fear, conflict, and chaos for everyone involved. From the practical to the spiritual, Kacie offers perspective on how facing death honestly can change the way we live each day.This episode is for anyone curious about planning for the inevitable, reducing uncertainty for loved ones, and finding more meaning in the life they’re living right now.Key TakeawaysPlan early, live fully: End-of-life planning isn’t just for later, it’s a gift that prevents confusion, conflict, and unnecessary crisis.Make a death plan: Just like a birth plan, choosing who you want present, the environment, and the details of your final days creates dignity and comfort.Normalize the process: Education about what the body goes through at the end of life can ease fear and help loved ones support without panic.Financial preparation matters: Dying in America is expensive, planning and saving now protects both independence and quality of care later.Sit with your dying self daily: Reflecting on how you’d feel about today’s choices at the end of your life encourages radical presence and fewer regrets.___ Host Emily Paulsen is an accomplished entrepreneur and happily childfree woman shining a light on the often overshadowed childfree-by-choice perspective. Whether interviewing innovative experts or positioning leaders to scale through her Brand Studio, Electric Collab, Emily’s power lies in allowing people to feel seen and celebrated for who they are. She’s spent years honing the ability to deeply understand and amplify others in an honest, high-impact way.Learn more about Emily at: www.curiouslifeofachildfreewoman.comConnect on Instagram: @curiouslifeofachildfreewoman___The guest on this episode, Kacie Gikonyo, is a former RN, death doula educator, and founder of Death Doula School. She has supported hundreds of individuals and families through end of life, bringing education, advocacy, and presence to a process often avoided or feared. Through her work, she empowers people to create meaningful death plans, normalize conversations around mortality, and live more intentionally today.Connect with Kacie: Website: www.deathdoulakacie.com Instagram: @deathdoulakacie TikTok: @deathdoulakacie LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kaciegikonyo

What if the goal isn’t happiness at all, but joy?In this episode, Emily Paulsen speaks with M. Shannon Hernandez, founder of Joyful Business Revolution and author of Practical Joy. Shannon shares her belief that joy is an “inside job”, a state rooted in values, not circumstances, and opens up about how this perspective has guided her through some of life’s most unexpected transitions.Their conversation explores what it means to live in alignment with lifestyle values, navigate identity shifts, and choose joy even when happiness feels out of reach. From building a childfree life to redefining boundaries in work and relationships, Shannon offers a deeply personal yet practical perspective on what it takes to live authentically and joyfully.This episode is for anyone curious about how to move beyond fleeting happiness and step into a deeper, more grounded sense of joy in everyday life.Key TakeawaysJoy is an inside job: Unlike happiness, joy isn’t dependent on circumstances, it’s about choosing alignment with your values in any moment.Lifestyle values guide choices: Identifying and honoring your top lifestyle values helps filter decisions and boundaries with clarity.Micro-joys matter: Small, daily sources of joy, like savoring a coffee, can sustain us during life’s hardest seasons.Boundaries create freedom: Saying no to obligations and people-pleasing opens space for joy to flourish.Identity beyond roles: True self-expression requires separating who we are at our core from the roles and expectations placed on us.___ Host Emily Paulsen is an accomplished entrepreneur and happily childfree woman shining a light on the often overshadowed childfree-by-choice perspective. Whether interviewing innovative experts or positioning leaders to scale through her Brand Studio, Electric Collab, Emily’s power lies in allowing people to feel seen and celebrated for who they are. She’s spent years honing the ability to deeply understand and amplify others in an honest, high-impact way.Learn more about Emily at: www.curiouslifeofachildfreewoman.comConnect on Instagram: @curiouslifeofachildfreewoman___The guest on this episode, M. Shannon Hernandez, is the founder of Joyful Business Revolution®, creator of the Content Personality® Wheel, and author of Practical Joy. With her signature approach to aligning business, messaging, and values, Shannon helps entrepreneurs and organizations build joy-fueled success while redefining what it means to live authentically.Connect with Shannon:Website: www.joyfulbusinessrevolution.comPractical Joy Book: www.practicaljoybook.comLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/mshannonhernandez

Who will take care of you when you’re older? For many, this question sparks discomfort, or gets brushed aside entirely. But caregiving is a reality most of us will face, whether we’re the ones providing care or receiving it. The real question is: how prepared are we for it?In this episode, Emily Paulsen speaks with Pamela D. Wilson, an international caregiving expert, advocate, and speaker with over 25 years of experience supporting older adults, individuals with disabilities, caregivers, and professionals. Their conversation explores the complexities of modern caregiving, from navigating healthcare systems to the emotional realities families face when plans aren’t in place.Pamela offers a clear-eyed but optimistic perspective on how to approach caregiving with foresight and intention. She shares why proactive planning can prevent emotional and financial crises, the legal and logistical tools everyone should have in place, and how to find trusted help, whether through loved ones, community networks, or professional fiduciaries.Whether you’re years away from needing care, actively caring for someone, or simply want to understand your options, this episode offers practical strategies, valuable resources, and a reminder that we all have more control than we might think.Key TakeawaysProactive planning prevents crisis: Early conversations and documented wishes reduce stress, confusion, and last-minute scrambling.Advocacy is non-negotiable: In today’s healthcare landscape, speaking up and requesting what you need is essential for quality care.Legal tools protect your wishes: Powers of attorney, living wills, and care plans ensure decisions align with your values.Know your financial path: Identify where and how you want care, then plan, through savings, insurance, or both, to fund it.Support networks matter: Build trusted relationships, whether with family, friends, or professionals, to avoid isolation in critical moments.___ Host Emily Paulsen is an accomplished entrepreneur and happily childfree woman shining a light on the often overshadowed childfree-by-choice perspective. Whether interviewing innovative experts or positioning leaders to scale through her Brand Studio, Electric Collab, Emily’s power lies in allowing people to feel seen and celebrated for who they are. She’s spent years honing the ability to deeply understand and amplify others in an honest, high-impact way.Learn more about Emily at: www.curiouslifeofachildfreewoman.comConnect on Instagram: @curiouslifeofachildfreewoman___The guest on this episode, Pamela D. Wilson, MS, BS/BA, CG, CSA, is an international caregiving expert, advocate, and speaker based in Denver, Colorado. Twenty-five years of experience supporting older adults, persons with disabilities, caregivers, and professionals as an expert witness, care manager, and professional fiduciary serve as Wilson’s platform to educate and increase awareness of caregiving as an essential role in life.Connect with Pamela:Website: www.pameladwilson.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/pameladwilsoncaregivingexpert

What if the future of healthcare wasn’t just about fixing what’s broken, but about discovering what’s possible? In this episode, Emily Paulsen speaks with Dr. Koen Kas, a molecular oncologist, healthcare futurist, and author of EPIC, about how technology is reshaping the way we think about wellness, illness, and aging.Together, they explore the idea of “healthspan” over lifespan, the rise of AI-powered health companions, and what it could mean to build a care system around delight, prevention, and purpose. Dr. Kas shares real-world tools, from apps that detect early signs of Parkinson’s through voice patterns to at-home diagnostics for eye disease and sleep apnea, and challenges long-held assumptions about how care should be delivered. Throughout the conversation, he invites listeners to imagine a world where each person is supported by a “digital twin,” empowered with personal data, and encouraged to measure not just physical health, but emotional well-being and meaning.Key Takeaways:Healthspan matters more than lifespan: Dr. Kas emphasizes the importance of feeling well, energized, and purposeful, not just living longer, but living better.We’re moving from reactive to proactive care: Instead of waiting to get sick, technology now allows us to monitor early changes and support health before problems begin.Delight is a legitimate health metric: By designing health interventions that feel good, intuitive, and emotionally rewarding, we’re more likely to sustain long-term wellness habits.Digital twins could change everything: AI-powered companions that track our speech, sleep, movement, and mood could soon detect illness early and personalize care, without stepping into a clinic.Measurable doesn’t mean clinical: From smart toilets to emotion-sensing playlists, Dr. Kas shares how everyday tools are being reimagined to support emotional, mental, and physical well-being.Healthcare can be human-centered again: Tech isn’t replacing empathy, it’s enhancing it. Used thoughtfully, it can bring care closer to home, make it more personal, and even restore trust in the system.___ Host Emily Paulsen is an accomplished entrepreneur and happily childfree woman shining a light on the often overshadowed childfree-by-choice perspective. Whether interviewing innovative experts or positioning leaders to scale through her Brand Studio, Electric Collab, Emily’s power lies in allowing people to feel seen and celebrated for who they are. She’s spent years honing the ability to deeply understand and amplify others in an honest, high-impact way.Learn more about Emily at: www.curiouslifeofachildfreewoman.comConnect on Instagram: @curiouslifeofachildfreewoman___The guest on this episode, Prof. Dr. Koen Kas, is a healthcare futurist and professor of Molecular Oncology & Digital Health at Ghent University, Belgium. He curates the global database of certified health apps and AI tools and is a sought-after keynote speaker. His books include Sick No More (shifting from reactive sick-care to proactive health) and Your Guide to Delight (crafting “wow” experiences and the personal digital twin). His new book, Epic, explores holistic longevity - showing how AI companions, creativity and data empowerment help people unlock their full potential and find purpose. Learn more on his website:  https://koenkas.com/ And pick up a copy of his book on Amazon:  https://www.amazon.com.be/-/nl/Koen-Kas/dp/9463107053

What if giving back wasn’t something you added to your life, but the thing that grounded it?In this episode of Curious Life of a Childfree Woman, longtime wildlife rescuer and yoga studio co-owner Kelly Mehring shares how two decades of volunteer work have shaped her purpose, strengthened her resilience, and connected her to a community she didn’t know she needed. From rescuing injured raccoons on busy highways to building lifelong friendships through grassroots animal advocacy, Kelly’s story is a powerful example of what it means to serve without seeking credit, and why that kind of service can be so deeply fulfilling.She opens up about the emotional weight of this work, the joy of educating others about native wildlife, and how volunteering helped her navigate challenges like burnout and even a recent breast cancer diagnosis. For anyone seeking meaning, connection, or a way to give back, this episode offers encouragement to start small and stay open.Whether you’re craving more purpose or simply curious about how others create it, this conversation invites you to explore volunteering not as an obligation, but as a life-affirming act of care.Key TakeawaysStart with what you care about: The best volunteer work begins with your own values, and one small step toward what lights you up.Fulfillment can come from structure: A regular volunteer commitment can bring purpose, connection, and a sense of being needed in the best way.It’s okay to try different paths: If one experience doesn’t fit, try another. The right organization will value your energy and your unique strengths.Emotional weight is real, and worth it: Hard moments will come, but knowing you’re reducing suffering, even by minutes, can make the discomfort meaningful.Community is a hidden benefit: Volunteering often leads to unexpected friendships and shared purpose, especially in emotionally intense settings.___ Host Emily Paulsen is an accomplished entrepreneur and happily childfree woman shining a light on the often overshadowed childfree-by-choice perspective. Whether interviewing innovative experts or positioning leaders to scale through her Brand Studio, Electric Collab, Emily’s power lies in allowing people to feel seen and celebrated for who they are. She’s spent years honing the ability to deeply understand and amplify others in an honest, high-impact way.Learn more about Emily at: www.curiouslifeofachildfreewoman.comConnect on Instagram: @curiouslifeofachildfreewoman___The guest on this episode, Kelly Mehring, is childfree by choice and co-owns the Columbus-based Mat Happy Yoga studio alongside her sister. She has spent over 20 years volunteering as a wildlife rescuer with the Ohio Wildlife Center and continues to advocate for animal welfare through hands-on rescue and public education. Kelly also supports farmed animal sanctuaries and has built a lifestyle rooted in service, compassion, and community.Follow her on Instagram: @mehringwayLearn more: ohiowildlifecenter.org | sunrisesanctuary.org | mathappy.com

What if the secret to financial freedom and a richer life wasn’t in earning more—but in living with less?In this episode of Curious Life of a Childfree Woman, financial planner and founder of The Tiny House Advisor, Laura Lynch, shares how the tiny living movement is rewriting the rules of homeownership, community, and enoughness. From leaving behind a 2,000-square-foot house to becoming mortgage-free, Laura’s journey is as much about values as it is about square footage.She explains what draws people to tiny living, why it’s not just about finances, and how it can create space for creativity, sustainability, and deeper connection. Plus, Laura offers practical tips for anyone curious about downsizing or exploring alternative living—without losing what matters most.Whether tiny living feels like a dream, a challenge, or something you’ve never considered, this episode invites you to rethink what “home” really means.Key TakeawaysYour biggest financial lever isn’t coffee—it’s housing: Downsizing can free up resources more than any budgeting tip or skipped latte ever could.Start with values, not square footage: A home should reflect what matters most to you—not what marketing or tradition says you need.Community thrives in smaller spaces: Alternative living often fosters stronger connection and resource sharing, countering isolation in conventional neighborhoods.Legalization is local and nuanced: Tiny homes aren’t one-size-fits-all; zoning and permitting vary widely, so research and persistence are key.Test before you leap: Stay in a tiny home or visit a community before making the transition to see how the lifestyle truly feels.—Host Emily Paulsen is an accomplished entrepreneur and happily childfree woman shining a light on the often overshadowed childfree-by-choice perspective. Whether interviewing innovative experts or positioning leaders to scale through her Brand Studio, Electric Collab, Emily’s power lies in allowing people to feel seen and celebrated for who they are. She’s spent years honing the ability to deeply understand and amplify others in an honest, high-impact way.Learn more about Emily at: www.curiouslifeofachildfreewoman.comConnect on Instagram: @curiouslifeofachildfreewoman—The guest on this episode, Laura Lynch, is a Certified Financial Planner™ and founder of The Tiny House Advisor. Laura helps individuals and families navigate the financial and logistical realities of downsizing, alternative housing, and creating lives that feel expansive—no matter the square footage. She also hosts the Less House, More Moolah podcast, where she features stories and strategies for financial freedom through intentional living.Learn more at: https://www.thetinyhouseadviser.com/Connect on Instagram: @lesshousemoremoolapodcast

What does it really mean to live the “right” life, and is that even possible?In this solo episode of Curious Life of a Childfree Woman, Emily Paulsen unpacks the assumptions people make about the show, shares why she created it, and explores the deeper purpose behind normalizing childfree living. Along the way, she challenges the myth of the “perfect path” and reminds us that living with curiosity, not comparison, is what truly matters.Emily also answers listener questions about her personal story, how she chooses topics, and what she hopes the future of the show looks like. From branding advice to dream guests, this is a behind-the-scenes look at the vision for a podcast that celebrates autonomy, individuality, and expansive possibilities for a life on your own terms.Whether you’re navigating societal expectations or simply craving conversations that reflect your reality, this episode offers clarity, reassurance, and a renewed sense of freedom to live life your way.Key Takeaways:Choice is the real freedom: There’s no single “right path,” only the power to choose and evolve as you go. Representation matters: Visibility for childfree perspectives helps normalize an equally valid life path. Curiosity keeps us open: Asking questions and exploring ideas prevents us from living on autopilot. Audience-first creation wins: Any creative project should center on who it serves, not just the creator’s vision. Engagement makes it better: Sharing your ideas and feedback shapes content that truly resonates.Want to connect, share episode ideas, or apply to be a guest?Visit⁠ www.curiouslifeofachildfreewoman.com⁠ to join the conversation and explore what’s next.—Host Emily Paulsen is an accomplished entrepreneur and happily childfree woman shining a light on the often overshadowed childfree-by-choice perspective. Whether interviewing innovative experts or positioning leaders to scale through her Brand Studio, Electric Collab, Emily’s power lies in allowing people to feel seen and celebrated for who they are. She’s spent years honing the ability to deeply understand and amplify others in an honest, high-impact way.Learn more about Emily on her website:⁠ www.curiouslifeofachildfreewoman.com⁠And connect with her on Instagram:⁠ https://www.instagram.com/curiouslifeofachildfreewoman/⁠

What if low energy, brain fog, or mood swings had less to do with motivation—and more to do with your microbiome?In this episode of Curious Life of a Childfree Woman, registered dietitian and researcher Dr. Mindy Patterson breaks down what gut health really is, why it matters, and how it quietly affects everything from digestion and blood sugar to inflammation, hormones, and longevity.She explains the difference between probiotics, prebiotics, and resistant starch—plus why not all fiber is beneficial, and how some “gut health” products may be doing more harm than good. This is a grounded, science-backed conversation about what’s going on beneath the surface and how to work with your gut, not against it.Whether gut health feels confusing or you’ve already tried every probiotic on the shelf, this episode offers clarity, real guidance, and a better way forward.Key Takeaways:Gut health impacts far more than digestion. It’s connected to mood, energy, immunity, and inflammation across the entire body.Prebiotics and probiotics are not the same. Prebiotics feed the good bacteria; probiotics are the bacteria themselves—and both are essential.Resistant starch is a powerful prebiotic. It ferments slowly, making it more tolerable for sensitive guts while also supporting blood sugar regulation.Short-chain fibers found in many wellness drinks may trigger bloating or discomfort. The type of fiber matters more than the amount.Consistent, small changes to your diet can start reshaping your microbiome in just a few days—but lasting results come from long-term habits.—Host Emily Paulsen is an accomplished entrepreneur and happily childfree woman shining a light on the often overshadowed childfree-by-choice perspective. Whether interviewing innovative experts or positioning leaders to scale through her Brand Studio, Electric Collab, Emily’s power lies in allowing people to feel seen and celebrated for who they are. She’s spent years honing the ability to deeply understand and amplify others in an honest, high-impact way. Learn more about Emily on her website: www.curiouslifeofachildfreewoman.com  And connect with her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/curiouslifeofachildfreewoman/ —The guest on this episode, Dr. Mindy Patterson, is a registered dietitian, professor, researcher, and founder of Renutrin—a prebiotic fiber supplement designed to reduce inflammation, support blood sugar, and improve gut health without the typical digestive side effects. Her work has been featured in The New York Times, Women’s Health, and more, and she has authored over 10 peer-reviewed publications.Learn more at: www.renutrin.coConnect with her on LinkedIn: Dr. Mindy Patterson

What does it mean to live as a woman when you’ve chosen to step outside the script?In this episode of Curious Life of a Childfree Woman, host Emily Paulsen talks with transformational coach, TEDx speaker, and author of Rewrite the Mother Code, Dr. Gertrude Lyons about the quiet rules women inherit around sacrifice, care, and emotional labor and how those rules shape our choices, confidence, and sense of self.Together, they explore the subtle ways women are taught to equate worth with overgiving, how to stand firm in your truth without becoming hardened, and why emotional expression is one of the most undervalued sources of strength. This conversation is about womanhood, self-trust, and redefining care on your own terms.Key TakeawaysWe inherit expectations we didn’t choose. Many women were handed a definition of femininity built around sacrifice, selflessness, and constant caretaking. It’s okay to question that.Choosing yourself isn’t selfish. Prioritizing your own well-being and fulfillment isn’t indulgent, it’s vital. And when women care for themselves, everyone benefits.Unshakeable doesn’t mean defensive. You don’t need to justify your choices. Confidence grows from clarity, not explanation.You are allowed to be complex. You can be soft and strong. Kind and firm. Giving and self-honoring.Your emotions are not the problem. Emotional presence is not weakness—it’s wisdom. The more you feel, the more fully you live.—Host Emily Paulsen is an accomplished entrepreneur and happily childfree woman shining a light on the often overshadowed childfree-by-choice perspective. Whether interviewing innovative experts or positioning leaders to scale through her Brand Studio, Electric Collab, Emily’s power lies in allowing people to feel seen and celebrated for who they are . She’s spent years honing the ability to deeply understand and amplify others in an honest, high-impact way. Learn more about Emily on her website: www.curiouslifeofachildfreewoman.com  And connect with her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/curiouslifeofachildfreewoman/ —The guest on this episode,  Dr. Gertrude Lyons has dedicated her professional life to exploring the transformative capacity of all people. Dr. Lyons received her Ed.D. in 2017, and has given workshops at Google, International Coaches Federation, Hey Mama, and more. She has been published or appeared in The Guardian, WSJ, Thrive Global, The Bump, Motherly, Business Insider, and MindBodyGreen, and on Fox NY & Chicago, Good Day LA, NewsNation, and WGN radio. She is the host of the podcast, “Rewrite the Mother Code,” and lives in Chicago, where she and her husband Rich raised their own family.Learn more about Dr. Lyons on her website: www.drgertrudelyons.com Connect with her online: IG: instagram.com/drgertrudelyons  LI: www.linkedin.com/in/gertrudelyons/ Order a copy of her book:  https://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1959524127?tag=simonsayscom Watch her TEDx Talk: https://www.ted.com/talks/gertrude_lyons_rewrite_the_mother_code⁠

Is AI here to take over, or help us take back our time, energy, and creativity?In this episode of Curious Life of a Childfree Woman, Emily Paulsen sat down with AI strategist Jordache Johnson, founder of Never Tech Behind to talk about what this technology is really doing to our minds, our culture, and our day-to-day choices. They talked about everything from the actual history of AI to how it's shifting our expectations of convenience, productivity, and what it means to do “good work.”This isn’t a fear-based take, it’s a grounded, human conversation about critical thinking, boundaries, and the personal responsibility we all have to use these tools with intention. —Key Takeaways:AI has been here longer than we think. The roots of artificial intelligence go back to 1949, but its current rise is reshaping society at an unprecedented pace.We’re in a cultural shift, not just a tech shift. As consumers, our expectations around speed, convenience, and personalization are changing everything.The biggest risk isn’t AI, it’s outsourcing our thinking. Jordache shares how he uses AI as a thought partner, not a decision-maker, and why critical thinking is more essential than ever.It’s not about resisting AI, it’s about being intentional. You don’t need to be a tech expert to use these tools wisely. Start with curiosity, clear boundaries, and self-awareness.Efficiency doesn’t mean less human. AI can give us back time, help us think more creatively, and support our values—if we’re willing to stay in the driver’s seat.—Host Emily Paulsen is an accomplished entrepreneur and happily childfree woman shining a light on the often overshadowed childfree-by-choice perspective. Whether interviewing innovative experts or positioning leaders to scale through her Brand Studio, Electric Collab, Emily’s power lies in allowing people to feel seen and celebrated for who they are . She’s spent years honing the ability to deeply understand and amplify others in an honest, high-impact way. Learn more about Emily on her website: www.curiouslifeofachildfreewoman.com  And connect with her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/curiouslifeofachildfreewoman/ —The guest on this episode,  Jordache Johnson, is an AI Strategist and AI-First Culture Architect who helps organizations thrive in our AI-driven world. Jordache is the Founder of Never Tech Behind, where he developed the ADAPT System, DICE Method™, and AHA Framework™—proven frameworks that help businesses implement AI sustainably while keeping the human element front and center. As an international keynote speaker, he's known for breaking down complex AI concepts into actionable strategies that entrepreneurs, business leaders and executives can actually use. Join Jordache’s newsletter: jordache.ai Learn more about his membership: nevertechbehind.com And connect with him online: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordachejohnson https://www.nevertechbehind.ai/ 

What makes someone magnetic in a meeting, not just competent, but commanding?In this episode, Emily talks with communications expert and executive coach Janet Bartucci about gravitas: that subtle but powerful presence that gets people to lean in, listen, and take you seriously. Drawing on decades of experience in corporate leadership and brand strategy, Janet breaks down what gravitas really is, why women are often praised for being “good” but not genuinely heard, and how we can start showing up with grounded presence, without shouting, shrinking, or pretending.This is a practical, personal conversation about what it looks like to stop second-guessing and start leading, in work and in life. Key TakeawaysGravitas isn’t about being the loudest. It’s about being the clearest. It’s the quiet conviction that makes people pay attention.Confidence gets you in the room, gravitas gets you heard. Delivery, tone, and presence often matter more than words alone.Recovery is part of power. Missteps happen. Gravitas shows up in how you handle them.Visual presence signals self-respect. Style, posture, and polish help you communicate authority before you speak.Good girl conditioning keeps us small. Approval-seeking dilutes your power. Gravitas begins with self-trust.This is a learnable skill. You don’t have to be born with it—you can develop it with intention, clarity, and practice.—Host Emily Paulsen is an accomplished entrepreneur and happily childfree woman shining a light on the often overshadowed childfree-by-choice perspective. Whether interviewing innovative experts or positioning leaders to scale through her Brand Studio, Electric Collab, Emily’s power lies in allowing people to feel seen and celebrated for who they are . She’s spent years honing the ability to deeply understand and amplify others in an honest, high-impact way. Learn more about Emily on her website: www.curiouslifeofachildfreewoman.com  And connect with her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/curiouslifeofachildfreewoman/ —The guest on this episode, Janet Bartucci, is a leadership strategist who helps women stop performing and start leading. After decades inside high-powered boardrooms and executive roles, she saw the same story play out: brilliant women getting overlooked, not because they lacked skill, but because they were stuck in outdated scripts about how to show up.Through her 5 Steps to a Self-Directed Life framework, Janet now teaches women how to reclaim their voice, lead with grounded authority, and build gravitas that’s not performative, but deeply embodied. Her work is about dropping the “good girl” act and becoming the kind of leader who doesn’t wait to be chosen.Learn more at www.janetbartucci.com or connect with her on Instagram @janetbartucci.

What if your home isn’t just a reflection of your taste, but a mirror of your story, your ambition, and how you want to feel in the world?In this episode of Curious Life of a Childfree Woman, Emily Paulsen speaks with Jamie Gasparovic, founder of Studio Gaspo, an interior design firm known for creating bold, identity-driven spaces that are anything but ordinary. Together, they explore how our environments can shape our energy, influence our confidence, and quietly reinforce who we believe we are becoming.This conversation is less about trends and more about intention. Jamie explains why starting with your own identity, not Pinterest, is the key to designing a home that feels meaningful, and how everything from material choices to layout can affect your daily experience. Whether someone is working with a designer or figuring it out room by room, this episode offers a new lens on how space and self are deeply connected.For anyone who wants their home to feel like a true extension of who they are—not just what’s in style—this episode invites a more personal, empowered approach to design.Key Takeaways:Design can be a form of self-expression. Homes designed with identity in mind feel more personal, impactful, and aligned with the lives people want to live.Pinterest isn’t the starting point. Meaningful design begins with self-awareness, not aesthetics. Looking inward helps clarify what a space needs to support.Materials matter. From the tactile feel of fabrics to the natural presence of stone, the textures we live with every day affect how we feel.Placeholders are okay. It’s better to evolve a space over time than to rush into choices that don’t resonate. Thoughtfulness beats perfection.Function and feeling go hand-in-hand. Design isn’t just about beauty—it’s about ease, intention, and creating an environment that works for your real life.—Host Emily Paulsen is an accomplished entrepreneur and happily childfree woman shining a light on the often overshadowed childfree-by-choice perspective. Whether interviewing innovative experts or positioning leaders to scale through her Brand Studio, Electric Collab, Emily’s power lies in allowing people to feel seen and celebrated for who they are . She’s spent years honing the ability to deeply understand and amplify others in an honest, high-impact way. Learn more about Emily on her website: www.curiouslifeofachildfreewoman.com  And connect with her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/curiouslifeofachildfreewoman/ —The guest on this episode, Jamie Gasparovic, is the founder of Studio Gaspo, the identity-driven interior design firm known for transforming luxury homes into powerful reflections of clients' values, ambition, and story. With a no-BS approach and a background in advertising and international business, Jamie blends fearless creativity with sharp strategy, designing spaces that don’t just look good, they mean something.She’s currently building a psychographic design platform that translates who you are into how your home should feel. From high-end builds to visionary tech, Jamie is reshaping the future of design, one unapologetically personal space at a time.Learn more about Studio Gaspo and connect with Jamie online:  https://studiogaspo.com/ https://www.instagram.com/studiogaspo/ Be the first to know about Studio Gaspo’s new launch https://gaspo.myflodesk.com/iti

What if winding down didn’t have to mean drinking wine or pushing through exhaustion? What if something gentler, something designed with women’s needs in mind, could actually help?In this episode, Emily Paulsen talks with Lisa Hurwitz, President of Happi, a low-dose, cannabis-infused seltzer brand redefining how women relax, celebrate, and cope with daily stress. They explore what it means to challenge the default rituals we’ve inherited, especially around alcohol, sleep, and self-care, and why so many women are looking for new ways to feel good without guilt, grogginess, or stigma.From Lisa’s journey off Ambien to the science behind cannabinoids, from entrepreneurship in a male-dominated industry to the emotional labor women carry every day—this conversation is a deep dive into wellness, reinvention, and rewriting the rules of what we reach for when life feels heavy.Key TakeawaysOur rituals shape us. From post-work decompression to weekend celebrations, what we reach for matters—and most of us are looking for something lighter, gentler, and more aligned with how we want to feel.Stress is stealing our sleep—and our joy. Lisa shares her own journey with insomnia, Ambien, and discovering the impact of low-dose cannabis as a natural alternative.Education is everything. Lisa breaks down what’s actually in Happi (like CBN, CBD, lion’s mane, and THC), how dosing works, and why formulation matters so much more than we’ve been told.Women are still underrepresented. From funding to product design, the cannabis industry has skewed male—and Happi is part of the push to change that.Stigma is real, but shifting. Lisa unpacks the cultural baggage around cannabis, how it’s evolving, and why education and transparency are essential.—Host Emily Paulsen is an accomplished entrepreneur and happily childfree woman shining a light on the often overshadowed childfree-by-choice perspective. Whether interviewing innovative experts or positioning leaders to scale through her Brand Studio, Electric Collab, Emily’s power lies in allowing people to feel seen and celebrated for who they are . She’s spent years honing the ability to deeply understand and amplify others in an honest, high-impact way. Learn more about Emily on her website: www.curiouslifeofachildfreewoman.com  And connect with her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/curiouslifeofachildfreewoman/ —The guest on this episode, Lisa Hurwitz, is the President of Happi, a line of all-natural, cannabis-infused seltzers designed to offer a refreshing alternative to alcohol and pharmaceuticals. With a background that spans over two decades in CPG and wellness, Lisa brings both strategic vision and personal passion to her work. Before launching Happi, she served as Chief Marketing Officer at Grassroots Cannabis, playing a key role in its $830 million acquisition by Curaleaf. She also held senior leadership roles at global companies like Kimberly-Clark. Now splitting her time between Nicaragua and the U.S., Lisa is on a mission to help people rethink wellness, stress, and social rituals through approachable microdose cannabis products.Learn more about Happi and Connect with Lisa Online: Visit the Website www.happihourdrink.com  and use code CURIOUSLIFE25 for 25% off your first order. Instagram: https://instagram.com/happihourdrinkLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-hurwitz-3318571/

When you’re not planning on having children, you might not give much thought to pelvic health. But what if that space—whether physically present or not—holds more than just reproductive function? What if it carries your power, your patterns, your presence?In this episode, Emily sat down with somatic therapist Suzi Zobrist, who first discovered the concept of womb wisdom after surviving ovarian cancer and undergoing a radical hysterectomy in her thirties. Suzi’s journey into healing, embodiment, and nervous system regulation opened a new understanding of what it means to live from the root. Together, they explore how tending to this often-overlooked part of ourselves can become a path to deeper aliveness, clarity, and sovereignty, especially for childfree women.Key TakeawaysPelvic health isn’t just for mothers. It’s a powerful entry point into embodiment, intuition, and emotional healing—for all women.The pelvic bowl is a place of memory. This part of the body can hold stress, trauma, and tension until we learn how to gently release it.Symptoms are messengers. Discomfort or disconnection often signals deeper needs, not just problems to be fixed.Daily practices matter. From morning devotionals to breathwork, Suzi offers accessible tools for reconnecting to the body with care.There’s no one right rhythm. Part of living childfree is reclaiming a relationship with the body on your own terms—not anyone else’s timeline.—Host Emily Paulsen is an accomplished entrepreneur and happily childfree woman shining a light on the often overshadowed childfree-by-choice perspective. Whether interviewing innovative experts or positioning leaders to scale through her Brand Studio, Electric Collab, Emily’s power lies in allowing people to feel seen and celebrated for who they are . She’s spent years honing the ability to deeply understand and amplify others in an honest, high-impact way. Learn more about Emily on her website: www.curiouslifeofachildfreewoman.com  And connect with her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/curiouslifeofachildfreewoman/ —Suzi Zobrist is a Spiritual Mentor, Ceremonial Bodyworker, and Womb Wisdom Keeper devoted to guiding women through the sacred thresholds of healing and remembrance. After losing her womb to ovarian cancer at age 30, Suzi was initiated into a path of deep reclamation—one that led her to the ancient arts of ritual, touch, and feminine embodiment.Rooted in earth-honoring traditions and the mysteries of the Divine Feminine, Suzi supports women in returning to the sacred center of their bodies through ceremonial bodywork, pelvic care, and rites of passage. She hosts the Tending the Sacred podcast and offers retreats and mentorship from her Temple space on Orcas Island, WA.Her work is a prayerful invitation to return to the wisdom of the womb, the rhythm of nature, and the wholeness of who we truly are.Learn more about Suzi and connect with her online: Website: rootmedicinehealing.comInstagram: @suzizobristListen to her Podcast: Tending the Sacred – Listen on Spotifyand  Download her Free Ritual Guide: Daily Devotion Ritual Guide

What if heritage wasn’t just what you inherited, but what you chose to carry forward?In this expansive conversation, Emily Paulsen is joined by Laura Sura, founder of Heritage Within, to explore how legacy can be defined by presence, energy, and intention rather than tradition or biology. Together, they question the assumptions baked into words like “heritage” and “ancestor,” and open the door to more personal, inclusive, and empowered interpretations.Rather than centering lineage in the traditional sense, this episode invites listeners to think about legacy as something everyone shapes—consciously or not. Emily and Laura reflect on how values, energy, and even ways of being can become part of what we pass on. They also challenge the pressure to “honor” what no longer feels aligned, and offer a compassionate, curious lens on how to decide what’s truly worth keeping.For anyone who has ever wondered what it means to leave a mark, to honor the past without being bound by it, or to become the kind of ancestor they wish they’d had—this episode offers both clarity and possibility.Key Takeaways:Heritage as an Intentional Inheritance: How to stop defaulting to what you were handed and begin curating what you’ll carry forward.Redefining Ancestry: Why ancestors don’t have to be blood-related—and how chosen influences shape our lives just as powerfully.Presence as a Legacy Practice: How the energy we bring into a room becomes part of what we leave behind.Letting Go of Obligation: The freedom that comes from releasing traditions or narratives that no longer resonate.Legacy Without Lineage: A powerful reminder that legacy isn’t reserved for parents—it’s created by how we live, connect, and show up every day.—Host Emily Paulsen is an accomplished entrepreneur and happily childfree woman shining a light on the often overshadowed childfree-by-choice perspective. Whether interviewing innovative experts or positioning leaders to scale through her Brand Studio, Electric Collab, Emily’s power lies in allowing people to feel seen and celebrated for who they are . She’s spent years honing the ability to deeply understand and amplify others in an honest, high-impact way. Learn more about Emily on her website: www.curiouslifeofachildfreewoman.com  And connect with her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/curiouslifeofachildfreewoman/ —Laura Rike is the founder of Heritage Within, a nonprofit dedicated to helping individuals redefine legacy and identity beyond biological roots. An adoptee and lifelong advocate for purpose-driven living, Laura believes that true heritage is built through the lives we touch and the values we embody. Through Heritage Within, she creates a supportive space for personal growth, authenticity, and empowerment. Laura’s work inspires others to honor their stories, break free from societal expectations, and leave a legacy of love, courage, and impact.Learn more about Heritage Within on their website: www.heritagewithin.org 

What if we stopped trying to fit our lives into boxes—and started letting complexity lead?In this episode, Emily is joined by Nicole Louie, author of Others Like Me: Lives of Women Without Children. Nicole spent 14 years researching and interviewing women across 25 countries, exploring what it means to live a life outside the expectation of motherhood. Through her powerful work, she brings dignity and depth to stories that are too often left out of the cultural conversation.They talk about the importance of shared stories, the struggle to find role models, and the limitations of identity labels like "childfree" and "childless." Nicole shares how her quest for connection evolved into a global movement—one that challenges us to make space for nuance and representation. This conversation is both a celebration of choosing your own path and a reflection on how we make meaning in the absence of societal blueprints.Whether you’re childfree by choice, circumstance, or still figuring it out, this episode will make you feel seen, inspired, and deeply connected.Key TakeawaysFrom Loneliness to Legacy: Nicole shares how her personal search for role models led to a global oral history project—and why her book is a bridge, not a box.Beyond the Binary: The terms “childfree” and “childless” don’t work for everyone. Nicole breaks down why some women reject labels altogether.Culture and Context Matter: From Ghana to Thailand, societal expectations around motherhood vary wildly. Nicole shares eye-opening stories from around the world.The Power of Representation: Visibility isn’t just about being seen—it’s about recognizing the full humanity of women without children.Letting Go of Categories: Nicole explains why she removed labels from her book, choosing instead to focus on story, not identity politics.What Comes After Visibility: They discuss the urgent need for policy change, from healthcare to the workplace, and how we can advocate for a more inclusive future.—Host Emily Paulsen is an accomplished entrepreneur and happily childfree woman shining a light on the often overshadowed childfree-by-choice perspective. Whether interviewing innovative experts or positioning leaders to scale through her Brand Studio, Electric Collab, Emily’s power lies in allowing people to feel seen and celebrated for who they are . She’s spent years honing the ability to deeply understand and amplify others in an honest, high-impact way. Learn more about Emily on her website: www.curiouslifeofachildfreewoman.com  And connect with her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/curiouslifeofachildfreewoman/ —The guest on this episode, Nicole Louie, is a writer and translator based in Ireland. Her essays have appeared in The Walrus, The Guardian, Electric Literature and Oh Reader Magazine. Her curated collectionsof books, movies and podcasts about women who are not mothers by choice, infertility, circumstance or ambivalence can be found on Instagram: @bynicolelouie.Others Like Me: The Lives of Women Without Children is her first book. You can learn more about her and Others Like Me at: linktr.ee/nicolelouie