In this conversation, The Auntie Bulletin creator, Lisa Sibbett, discusses her journey to becoming an auntie and the profound role that aunties play in the lives of children and families. Keltie and Lisa discuss: Lisa's decision to remain childfree and how her experiences have shaped her understanding of community, caregiving, and the importance of alloparents. The healing power of auntiehood, the important role aunties play in families, and the need for supportive networks in modern society. How those willing to step into an auntie role can offer their support — and the vulnerability that's often required to do so. How co-housing can provide a sense of belonging and connection — and why it's worth disrupting plans for. How by fostering greater community in neighbourhoods, you can replicate many of the benefits of co-housing. About Lisa Lisa Sibbett writes The Auntie Bulletin, a weekly newsletter about kinship, chosen family, and community care. A longtime Auntie herself, Lisa often focuses on the experiences of people without children who are nevertheless cultivating "childful" lives. She draws on over 20 years' experience as a teacher, teacher educator, and educational researcher to offer accessible, entertaining advice for building communities where all children -- not just our own -- can thrive. As mentioned in the show Subscribe to The Auntie Bulletin at theauntie.substack.com. _ Get details on an upcoming Kids or Childfree Group Program: kidsorchildfree.com/kids-or-childfree-program Check out our free resources here, or at kidsorchildfree.com/free-resources And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review The Kids or Childfree Podcast if you love what you’re hearing! You can leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, or a rating on Spotify. Subscribe to our YouTube channel: youtube.com/@KidsorChildfree Find us online at www.kidsorchildfree.com. Instagram: www.instagram.com/kidsorchildfree
In this episode, Keltie Maguire discusses some of the key themes and insights that have come up in her private and group coaching sessions during Season 5 of The Kids or Childfree Podcast, as well as episodes from Season 5 that address these topics. You'll hear her discuss: Why this choice is going to put your relationship under a microscope. How the Kids or Childfree decision forces you to confront reality, and the undeniable truth of your situation. How this choice can be a vehicle for growth and transformation. The power of the question, "What version of motherhood/CF living would make me a hell yes?" The importance of articulating what is a fulfilling life means to YOU. __ Get your tickets or an All-Access Pass for our Kids or Childfree Support Series here. Check out our free resources here, or at kidsorchildfree.com/free-resources And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review The Kids or Childfree Podcast if you love what you’re hearing! You can leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, or a rating on Spotify. Find us online at www.kidsorchildfree.com. Instagram: www.instagram.com/kidsorchildfree
In this conversation, writer and author of The Mother Code, Ruthie Ackerman, shares her personal journey from being childfree to becoming a mother, exploring the complexities of motherhood, societal expectations, and the emotional struggles that accompany the decision to have children. You'll hear Ruthie and Keltie discuss: How Ruthie decided to pursue motherhood in spite of her ambivalence, and being only 55% confident in her choice to have kids. How being from a long lineage of women who left their children, meant Ruthie was scared she would do the same. Why a difference of opinion about kids meant the end of her marriage, and how Ruthie navigated dating while pursuing motherhood. Ruthie's experiences with egg freezing, IVF, and egg donation. How Ruthie's book, The Mother Code, seeks to dismantle traditional notions of motherhood, while highlighting the ambivalence many women feel about motherhood. Why those who become mothers need to identify and create their own version of motherhood, rather than the versions that have been given to them. As mentioned in the show: Find Ruthie online at www.ruthieackerman.com You can find her book, The Mother Code, all places that books are sold: ruthieackerman.com/the-mother-code And on Instagram: www.instagram.com/ruackerman/ About Ruthie: Ruthie began her writing career with a promise: to shine a light on the people, places, and ideas that are too often ignored. After a stint at the New York Times and a few years reporting on the economy for Forbes, she was awarded journalism fellowships to war-torn Liberia and Lebanon to showcase young people in both countries who were rebuilding their lives out of the ashes of destruction—and finding the resilience to push forward. In the decade since, she has profiled game-changing entrepreneurs and social activists and written extensively about the professional and financial advancement of women. Ruthie wrote a piece for the New York Times Modern Love column about her own failed egg freezing. “Don’t Put All Your (Frozen) Eggs in One Basket,” which became the launching point for her memoir, The Mother Code: My Story of Love, Loss, And The Myths That Shape Us (May 2025, Penguin Random House), and shifted her focus from traditional reporting to personal stories. She started Ignite Writers Collective in 2019 as a way to work with other writers at all stages of their careers, sharing her insights from years as an editor and writer. Her clients have gotten book deals, published essays, and found the bravery to share their stories with the world. Ruthie’s writing has been published in Vogue, Glamour, O Magazine, The New York Times, The Atlantic, The Wall Street Journal, Forbes, Salon, Slate, Newsweek, and more. Most recently, she was the Deputy Editor at ForbesWomen. She has a Master's in Journalism from NYU and lives in Brooklyn with her husband and their daughter. Ruthie’s forthcoming memoir, The Mother Code, will be released in 2025 by Random House. __ Get details on an upcoming Kids or Childfree Workshop: kidsorchildfree.com/workshop Check out our free resources here, or at kidsorchildfree.com/free-resources And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review The Kids or Childfree Podcast if you love what you’re hearing! You can leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, or a rating on Spotify. Find us online at www.kidsorchildfree.com. Instagram: www.instagram.com/kidsorchildfree
In this solo episode of the Kids or Childfree Podcast, Keltie shares four key beliefs that she had to shift in order to embrace her childfree choice. You'll hear her discuss: The myth of the lightbulb moment. Why she needed to debunk the idea of there being a right and wrong choice. Why it was key to remember that there is more than one path to a happy life. Why she had to see life as something she chose - rather than it being something that happened to her. __ Check out our free resources here, or at kidsorchildfree.com/free-resources And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review The Kids or Childfree Podcast if you love what you’re hearing! You can leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, or a rating on Spotify. Find us online at www.kidsorchildfree.com. Instagram: www.instagram.com/kidsorchildfree
In this conversation, Keltie is speaking with mom, essayist, and author, Elissa Strauss, about her book 'When You Care: The Unexpected Magic of Caring for Others'. Hear her and Keltie discuss: Elissa's personal experience with motherhood, including the parts she was most afraid of. The complexities of caregiving, particularly in the context of motherhood. How to navigate the challenge of maintaining self-identity while parenting. How social media is shaping perceptions of motherhood — and the messiness of real-world care. Why we need a broader understanding of care that transcends traditional roles and highlights the transformative potential of caregiving experiences. The magic of caring for others — and how we can experience this, no matter what we ultimately choose. As mentioned in the show: Elissa is online at www.elissastrauss.com Pick up a copy of When You Care: simonandschuster.com/books/When-You-Care/Elissa-Strauss/9781982169275 Read Elissa's Substack at elissa.substack.com/ The piece Elissa's husband wrote about the impact of not breastfeeding their kids is here: https://www.nytimes.com/2019/02/23/opinion/sunday/formula-breastfeeding-fatherhood.html Tune into the How the Wise One Grows episode featuring Elissa: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5IHtrBPfmBMO55I7Mz9sKm Tune into the How the Wise One Grows episode featuring Keltie: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1Iw67drKUnzd1q1WjuzhUW?si=wCPBHC4vRa2Uwc-CGLO9dQ Find Elissa on social media: @elissaavery on IG facebook.com/elissa.strauss.7 linkedin.com/in/elissa-strauss-742720112/ About Elissa: Elissa Strauss is the author of When You Care: The Unexpected Magic of Caring for Others. She is a journalist, essayist, and opinion writer, and contributes to publications like the New York Times, The Atlantic, Glamour, and elsewhere. __ Get details on our upcoming Kids or Childfree Support Series here: kidsorchildfree.com/kids-or-childfree-support-series Check out our free resources here, or at kidsorchildfree.com/free-resources And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review The Kids or Childfree Podcast if you love what you’re hearing! You can leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, or a rating on Spotify. Find us online at www.kidsorchildfree.com. Instagram: www.instagram.com/kidsorchildfree
In this conversation, fertility expert, Dr. Amanda Adeleye, MD, is sharing the fertility knowledge you need to feel empowered in your Kids or Childfree decision. This includes... Common fertility myths and misconceptions The role of age in fertility, including when your fertility starts to decline How likely it really is to become pregnant in your mid-30's, at 40, and beyond Fertility preservation options — including egg and embryo freezing – and who they're suited for Why understanding personal goals is crucial in making informed family planning decisions As mentioned on the show: Find Amanda online at ccrmivf.com/locations/us/il/chicago/amanda-adeleye-md/ She's on Instagram at instagram.com/amanda.j.adeleye_md Get details on free health education platform, Roon, at roon.com Roon is also on Instagram at instagram.com/roonwomenshealth Find Amanda on Roon at roon.com/expert/DrAmandaAdeleye About Amanda: Dr. Amanda Adeleye, MD, is a reproductive endocrinologist and infertility (REI) specialist. She provides fertility services including IUI, IVF and fertility preservation at the newly opened fertility clinic, CCRM Chicago, where she is the founding partner and Medical Director. She received her Medical Degree from Columbia University, completed her residency at New York Presbyterian - Columbia University, and did her fellowship at the University of California, San Francisco. Dr. Adeleye is committed to improving the educational resources available to all patients to inform them on their fertility journey. As part of this work, she helped to create Roon, a free, trusted health platform founded by doctors to replace unreliable internet searches with expert medical guidance. _ Get details on our upcoming Kids or Childfree Support Series here: kidsorchildfree.com/kids-or-childfree-support-series Check out our free resources here, or at kidsorchildfree.com/free-resources And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review The Kids or Childfree Podcast if you love what you’re hearing! You can leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, or a rating on Spotify. Find us online at www.kidsorchildfree.com. Instagram: www.instagram.com/kidsorchildfree
In this conversation, Keltie Maguire speaks with shawdeez, Ph.D. (he/they), a queer and trans parent, about their journey to parenthood and the transformative experiences that awaited them on the other side of having a child. shawndeez shares... The impact of societal gender norms, both on shawndeez's feelings about parenthood and in how these norms can influence anyone making this decision. (1:27) shawndeez's experience navigating the IVF process as a transmasculine person. (11:38) The importance of creating a gender-open environment for children that fosters freedom and exploration. (45:54) The spiritual awakening that can accompany parenthood, and insights into shawndeez's own spiritual journey through parenthood. (18:15) The significance of connecting with nature, and the pursuit of joy and bliss in parenting. (49:54) Self-worth and the need to challenge traditional narratives around family and identity. As mentioned in the show: Find shawndeez online at: shawndeez.com Find shawndeez on Instagram: instagram.com/drshawndeez/ About shawndeez: shawndeez, Ph.D. (he/they) received their doctorate in UCLA’s Department of Gender Studies. While at UCLA, they created and led courses on Trans Magic, Queer & Trans Muslim Feminisms, and QTPoC Resistances while simultaneously serving on the Trans Wellness Team, a collective of medical doctors and mental health providers working to provide gender-affirming healthcare to trans students across the UC system. shawndeez’s dissertation research explored how queer, trans, and nonbinary individuals engage with the spiritual as a form of resilience, healing, and possibility. They are now a full time public speaker, spiritual guide, and workshop facilitator, offering spiritually-conscious spaces for queer/trans people to lean into their joys. (I can tweak if needed, let me know). _ Get details on 1-on-1 coaching here: kidsorchildfree.com/coaching Check out our free resources here, or at kidsorchildfree.com/free-resources And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review The Kids or Childfree Podcast if you love what you’re hearing! You can leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, or a rating on Spotify. Find us online at www.kidsorchildfree.com. Instagram: www.instagram.com/kidsorchildfree
In this episode, Keltie speaks with yogi, movement coach, model, and retreat facilitator, Charlotte Holmes, about her journey as a childfree individual and the role self-discovery plays in the Kids or Childfree choice. You'll hear about: Charlotte's early decision to remain childfree, and why she's never wavered, despite being confronted with challenging aspects of her choice. Why she decided to to donate her eggs and how she thinks and feels about this choice. The power in cultivating the most important relationship you'll ever have in life – the relationship with yourself. The significance of finding meaning beyond traditional roles. Why motherhood can take many forms beyond traditional parenting. Why finding meaning in life doesn't require having children. As mentioned in the show: Find Charlotte online at www.insightout.yoga On Instagram at: instagram.com/misscharholmes instagram.com/insightout.yoga Join one of Charlotte's upcoming yoga retreats: www.insightout.yoga/retreat About Charlotte: Here's how Charlotte describes herself: "I have spent 15 years in the wellness space as a movement coach, personal trainer, retreat facilitator, yoga and meditation teacher, fitness model and brand ambassador. My career started as a PT & group fitness instructor and my love of movement and mindfulness led me to Rishikesh, India to study yoga further. I have spent the last 10 years traveling back and forth to India for various trainings and immersions. Now, with over 2000 hours of yoga teacher training experience, I fuse together the rich and diverse practices of the deep Himalayas to bring you movement, mantra, meditation and more. The last few years have seen big life shifts after heartbreak and betrayal when my husband and best friend had an affair. I am now divorced and engaged to the love of my life, living half of the year in India; teaching at a prestigious yoga school in the foothills of the Himalayas and the other half touring Europe with my love sharing yoga, meditation, music and kirtan at retreats, festivals and immersions. Aside that we run an online yoga membership called Insight Out Yoga which provides a sacred sanctuary for all of your spiritual practices including yoga asana, meditation, mantra and breath work. This year i will embark on my 3rd round of egg donation - which as an IVF baby myself has been a beautiful, humbling and necessary journey for me to undertake. My ex husband and I knew on date 1 that neither of us wanted children - but this relationship has meant navigating through the decision not to have children in a new way." __ Join an upcoming Kids or Childfree workshop here: kidsorchildfree.com/workshop Check out our free resources here, or at kidsorchildfree.com/free-resources And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review The Kids or Childfree Podcast if you love what you’re hearing! You can leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, or a rating on Spotify. Find us online at www.kidsorchildfree.com. Instagram: www.instagram.com/kidsorchildfree
In the conversation, Keltie is joined by writer and author, Heidi Reimer, to discuss the complexities and ambivalence of motherhood, and Heidi's unique journey to becoming a mom. You'll hear them discuss: Heidi's novel, The Mother Act, and how it allowed her to explore her darkest fantasies about abandoning motherhood (2:30) How Heidi's conservative Christian upbringing influenced her views on womanhood and motherhood (11:20) How Heidi went from never wanting kids to adopting a child and becoming pregnant at the same time (22:15) Why motherhood - and especially early motherhood - felt like a trap, and how she feels today, now that her children are nearly grown (41:50) The importance of discussing and sharing honestly about motherhood - rather than romanticizing it (57:40) As mentioned in the show: Heidi is online at www.heidireimer.com Read Heidi's book, The Mother Act Find Heidi on Instagram at instagram.com/heidi.c.reimer Her substack is heidireimer.substack.com About Heidi: Heidi Reimer is an essayist, novelist, writing coach, and the author of The Mother Act. Her writing interrogates the lives of women, usually those bent on breaking free of what they’re given to create what they yearn for. Heidi has published in Chatelaine, The New Quarterly, Literary Mama, and the anthologies The M Word: Conversations About Motherhood and Body & Soul: Stories for Skeptics and Seekers. She is from Northern Ontario, Canada, and currently writes in a small town on the St. Lawrence River. __ Book your Clarity Booster here: kidsorchildfree.com/claritybooster Check out our free resources here, or at kidsorchildfree.com/free-resources And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review The Kids or Childfree Podcast if you love what you’re hearing! You can leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, or a rating on Spotify. Find us online at www.kidsorchildfree.com. Instagram: www.instagram.com/kidsorchildfree
This week's episode is with podcaster, coach, and author, Lucy Meggeson, on how to thrive as a single woman without kids. You'll hear Keltie and Lucy discuss... Lucy's journey to embracing her identity as a single, childfree woman. (12:49) Societal perceptions of being single and childless, and why these are so often wrong. (19:21) The need for intentional living and finding fulfillment beyond traditional roles. (37:07) The joys of being single and childfree and the importance of celebrating this life path. (48:19) The importance of mindset in personal growth and the journey to embracing a single and childfree life. (1:03:31) As mentioned in the show: Lucy's website: www.lucymeggeson.com Find Lucy on Instagram at @thrivesolowithlucymeggeson Listen to Thrive Solo with Lucy Meggeson on Spotify and Apple Podcasts Purchase Lucy's new book, Thrive Solo / Shiny Happy Singles, here: lucymeggeson.com/book About Lucy: Lucy Meggeson worked in production at BBC Radio 2 for several years before becoming the host and producer of her own podcast, Thrive Solo (formerly Spinsterhood Reimagined) — a podcast that celebrates all things single, childfree, and personal growth. She's a regular on Jo Good's BBC Radio London show and has been a guest on various other radio and podcasts, including Jeremy Vine's BBC Radio 2 show, Peter McGraw's 'Solo: The Single Person's Guide to a Remarkable Life', and Shani Silver's 'A Single Serving Podcast'. Lucy has had many, many amazing guests on her podcast including Cindy Gallop, Jody Day, Bella DePaulo, Shani Silver, Heidi Clements, Matt Cooke, Nicola Slawson, Jo Good, Peter McGraw, Jill Stark, Polly Vernon, Kate Lister and Ruby Warrington. Lucy also runs her own membership for single women, Thrive Solo. Usually based in her flat in south-west London, she is currently living in Dorset, with her beloved cat, Johnny Depp. __ Join our an upcoming Kids or Childfree workshop: kidsorchildfree.com/workshop Check out our free resources here, or at kidsorchildfree.com/free-resources And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review The Kids or Childfree Podcast if you love what you’re hearing! You can leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, or a rating on Spotify. Find us online at www.kidsorchildfree.com. Instagram: www.instagram.com/kidsorchildfree
In this conversation, Keltie speaks with Stacey Hicks — a writer and Deputy Editor at Australian media outlet, Mamamia — about being a mom to one. The two of them discuss... The complexities surrounding the decision to have kids and in particular, the choice to have only one child. (6:49) How being one and done elicits a similar response from other people as being or considering being childfree. (11:57) The challenges of navigating external expectations while striving to make choices that align with personal values and family dynamics. (25:02) The joys and challenges of raising an only child. (37:38) How self-trust and self-knowledge play into the decision about whether to have no kids, one kid, or multiple children. (45:21) As mentioned in the show: Find Stacey on social media at @staceyahicks. Check out Stacey's writing at Mamamia, including her piece about being the mom of an only child: mamamia.com.au/only-child-families/ The only child researcher Stacey and I discuss in our conversation is Dr. Rosina McAlpine. About Stacey: Stacey Hicks is the Deputy Editor for Australia's largest women's media company, Mamamia. After working in magazines for a decade, she made the switch to digital where she loves sharing women's stories across news, lifestyle and parenting. She is also a mum to a glorious four-year-old girl with her husband, who she met in her first media job working at the local newspaper. __ The next round of our Kids or Childfree Group Program kicks off June 18th! kidsorchildfree.com/kids-or-childfree-program Check out our free resources here, or at kidsorchildfree.com/free-resources And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review The Kids or Childfree Podcast if you love what you’re hearing! You can leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, or a rating on Spotify. Find us online at www.kidsorchildfree.com. Instagram: www.instagram.com/kidsorchildfree TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@kidsorchildfree
We're back for another episode of our Dear Former Fence-Sitter series with mom, therapist, and former fence-sitter, Amanda E. White, where we're answering questions that include... How do I reconcile the different parts of myself that both want and don't want kids? How can I finally decide? Is it selfish to create a child for my own satisfaction? I'm scared that I'll only be happy on the childfree path if I can make all of my childfree dreams a reality. Am I living in fantasy — or is this me committing? I decided I don't want kids so I got an I.U.D. Now I'm freaking out — what's causing all these doubts? How do you maintain a feeling of closeness in my relationships, when one person has kids and the other is childfree? As mentioned in the show: Listen to my original conversation with Amanda, where she shares her personal Kids or Childfree journey, here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4ir3CeSSRRLLh2PbVwQn1h Find Amanda on Instagram: instagram.com/therapyforwomen Read Amanda's Fence Sitter Substack: amandaewhite.substack.com Listen to Amanda's Nuance Needed Podcast here: https://open.spotify.com/show/73G84FVO6k5lIAaRWhzlUi?si=39f1a6ffbd444408 Learning about Amanda's therapy practice, Therapy for Women Center: www.therapyforwomencenter.com About Amanda: Amanda E. White is a licensed therapist and the creator of the popular Instagram account @therapyforwomen. She writes a substack called Fence Sitter. She is the author of the book “Not Drinking Tonight” and its corresponding workbook. She is the founder of the group therapy practice, Therapy for Women Center, based in Philadelphia serving clients across the country. She has been featured in notable publications such as Forbes, Washington Post, Shape, Women’s Health Magazine, and more. To learn more visit amandaewhite.com __ The next round of our Kids or Childfree Group Program kicks off June 18th! kidsorchildfree.com/kids-or-childfree-program Check out our free resources here, or at kidsorchildfree.com/free-resources And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review The Kids or Childfree Podcast if you love what you’re hearing! You can leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, or a rating on Spotify. Find us online at www.kidsorchildfree.com. Instagram: www.instagram.com/kidsorchildfree TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@kidsorchildfree
In this conversation, Keltie Maguire speaks with journalist, mom, and runner, Jennifer Heimlich, about her journey into motherhood. Hear them discuss: Jennifer's initial ambivalence about motherhood, her experience of miscarriage, and the challenging early days of parenthood The unexpected joy Jennifer has found in motherhood, despite its difficulties. The role running has played in her life before, during and after pregnancy. Her experience getting back into running after giving birth — and why running is a great hobby for moms. Body image and the challenges with getting back into a sport, after having a child. How to prioritize your passions and personal interests after becoming a parent — and why it's so important to do so. As mentioned in the show: Find Jennifer on Instagram at @thejennymaneuver Her website is jenniferheimlich.wordpress.com About Jennifer: Jennifer Heimlich is a freelance writer who covers health, fitness, and all kinds of wellness. With more than 15 years of journalism experience, she previously worked as the senior fitness editor for Well+Good and the editor in chief of Dance Magazine. Today, you can find her work in various publications like SELF, GQ, TIME, and PS, among other outlets. A UESCA-certified running coach, she leads running tours in Boston in her free time and is almost always training for her next marathon. __ Want to explore how we can work together 1-on-1? Book a free discovery call here. Find my 1-on-1 coaching offers at kidsorchildfree.com/coaching Check out our free resources here, or at kidsorchildfree.com/free-resources And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review The Kids or Childfree Podcast if you love what you’re hearing! You can leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, or a rating on Spotify. Find us online at www.kidsorchildfree.com. Instagram: www.instagram.com/kidsorchildfree
In this conversation, Keltie Maguire speaks with Professor of Pyschology, Dr. Jennifer Watling Neal about her research on childfree adults. They explore... The growing demographic of individuals who choose not to have children, including the unique needs of this population, and the societal perceptions surrounding childfree lifestyles. Stereotypes and myths surrounding childfree individuals, and the societal pressures that often accompany these choices. Insights from Jenna's research, including the life satisfaction levels of childfree people, and the various reasons individuals choose not to have children. As mentioned in the show: Find Jenna online at jennawneal.com and thechildfree.org Find Jenna on Bluesky: @jennawneal.bsky.social Instagram: @jennawneal Find information about pioneering researcher Amy Blackstone here: amyblackstonephd.com/childfreebychoice About Jennifer: Dr. Jennifer Watling Neal is a Professor of Psychology at Michigan State University. Her research uses large scale demographic data to understand the prevalence, characteristics, and experiences of childfree adults (adults who do not have and do not want kids) in the United States and other countries. She also researches social networks in educational contexts. She's authored 90 peer-reviewed papers, and her work is published in scholarly journals such as Scientific Reports, Developmental Psychology, and American Journal of Community Psychology. She has been a guest on several past podcasts including the American Psychological Association's Speaking of Psychology hosted by Kim Mills and The Overpopulation Podcast hosted by Nandita Bajaj and Alan Ware. ___ Want to explore how we can work together 1-on-1? Book a free discovery call here. Find my 1-on-1 coaching offers at kidsorchildfree.com/coaching Check out our free resources here, or at kidsorchildfree.com/free-resources And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review The Kids or Childfree Podcast if you love what you’re hearing! You can leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, or a rating on Spotify. Find us online at www.kidsorchildfree.com. Instagram: www.instagram.com/kidsorchildfree
In this conversation, Keltie Maguire speaks with Kristina Chilian — teacher, coach, and mom to two 20-somethings — about her journey into and experience of motherhood. You'll hear about... Kristina's initial reluctance to have kids, and how her perspectives evolved over time (4:06) Kristina's transition from being a stay-at-home mom to discovering a new career in teaching (21:44) Her experience parenting a child who is neurodiverse (37:38) Why humor is her and her partner's secret to maintaining a great relationship while parenting (51:08) The joys and difficulties of watching her children transition into adulthood, and why parents must adapt their roles as their children grow (54:45) ...plus many more unique and candid perspectives from over 20 years as a parent. As mentioned in the show: Find Kristina online at www.kristinachilian.com. Kristina's Instagram is @kristinachilian. About Kristina: Kristina Chilian is a licensed teacher and time management coach for college students. As a high school English teacher, she witnessed many of her former students struggle as they tried to transition to college. After her own sons struggled with anxiety and overwhelm as freshmen, she felt called to start a business helping students thrive in college by teaching them how to organize their schedule, manage their workload, and reduce stress. She lives outside of Richmond, Virginia with her husband, two sons, three cats and a dog. _ Join one of our May Support Series sessions: Kids or Childfree Support Series: kidsorchildfree.com/kids-or-childfree-support-series Confidently Childfree Support Series: kidsorchildfree.com/confidently-childfree-support-series Check out our free resources here, or at kidsorchildfree.com/free-resources And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review The Kids or Childfree Podcast if you love what you’re hearing! You can leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, or a rating on Spotify. Find us online at www.kidsorchildfree.com. Instagram: www.instagram.com/kidsorchildfree
We're kicking off Season 5 of the podcast, with a conversation with Anne Wennhold — a 90-year-old childfree by choice woman who supports elders interested in continuing to grow as human and spiritual beings. Hear Keltie and Anne discuss: How Anne's upbringing and early life experiences culminated in her choice not to have kids. How Anne contends with being an "outsider" among parents and grandparents. Anne's experience navigating difficult emotions as a childfree person — and how you can manage painful emotions that arise around this decision. Loneliness in old age – and why having kids won't make you immune to it. Whether Anne regrets her decision not to have kids. Anne's advice to anyone on the fence about kids. ...and so much more! As mentioned in the show: If you want to email Anne, just drop me a DM at @kidsorchildfree and I'll connect you. About Anne: Here's Anne in her words: "I live alone in northern New Jersey. I was widowed at an early age, have no children by choice. My chosen family is scattered about the USA and available by phone and Zoom. At 90 years old, I am focused on working with elders who are interested in continuing to grow as human and spiritual beings, and sharing with them all aspects of living to an older age including having children or not." __ Join our upcoming Confidently Childfree Coaching Intensive: kidsorchildfree.com/confidently-childfree-support-series Check out our free resources here, or at kidsorchildfree.com/free-resources And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review The Kids or Childfree Podcast if you love what you’re hearing! You can leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, or a rating on Spotify. Find us online at www.kidsorchildfree.com. Instagram: www.instagram.com/kidsorchildfree
In this episode, Keltie Maguire discusses some of the key themes and insights that have come up in her private and group coaching sessions during Season 4 of The Kids or Childfree Podcast, as well as episodes from Season 4 that address these topics. You'll hear her discuss: Why it's tough to allow yourself to want something that you secretly judge. The importance of separating the version of motherhood or childfree living that you want, from those you're accustomed to seeing. Why it's essential to discuss your ideas and expectations of parenthood with your partner. How fears and insecurities are amplified when we face the Kids or Childfree choice. How the way we perceive and think about our choices affects our decision-making process. __ Join our Confidently Childfree Coaching Intensive that kicks off May 12th: kidsorchildfree.com/confidently-childfree-group-intensive Check out our free resources here, or at kidsorchildfree.com/free-resources And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review The Kids or Childfree Podcast if you love what you’re hearing! You can leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, or a rating on Spotify. Find us online at www.kidsorchildfree.com. Instagram: www.instagram.com/kidsorchildfree
In this conversation, Keltie speaks with Gabrielle Salamone, a licensed clinical social worker specializing in OCD and anxiety. The two of them discuss... Tokophobia, a severe fear of childbirth, and its implications on women's mental health and parenting decisions. The importance of addressing fears surrounding childbirth, and therapeutic approaches to overcoming these fears. The importance of CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) and ERP (exposure response prevention) techniques and how "worry stories" can help alleviate and manage anxiety. Gabrielle's personal journey with being on the fence, and navigating infertility. As mentioned in the show: Find Gabrielle — and US-based therapy — online at therapyforwomencenter.com. Gabrielle's Instagram is @livewellwithgabrielle. About Gabrielle: Gabrielle Salomone, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, who is from outside of Philadelphia PA. She received her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and then a few years later her Masters in Social Work, both from Widener University. She currently is the clinical director at Therapy for Women Center which is based in Philadelphia. The practice has 3 offices in the Philadelphia area, one opening soon in New Jersey and they have therapists available virtually in 42 states including DC! Besides being a part of the day-to-day running of the group practice Gabrielle is also a therapist and continues to work with clients. Gabrielle has experience working in just about every area of mental health treatment, at every level of treatment, and with clients across all ages. She specializes in working with clients struggling with life transitions, eating disorders, anxiety, and OCD. Gabrielle has received training through working at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, The Renfrew Center and Roger's Behavioral Health. As a therapist, Gabrielle believes that therapy is not one size fits all, which is why she uses a person-centered approach. She practices from the theoretical orientation of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, focusing on how thoughts and feelings impact our behaviors and incorporating exposure therapy to change behaviors and working with clients on incorporating back into one’s life enjoyable activities, routines and value-based goals that have decreased or are being avoided due to the eating disorder/anxiety/OCD. Gabrielle provides a safe and comfortable atmosphere and she believes in building trusting therapeutic relationships with all her clients. __ Join one of our April Support Series sessions: Kids or Childfree Support Series: kidsorchildfree.com/kids-or-childfree-support-series Confidently Childfree Support Series: kidsorchildfree.com/confidently-childfree-support-series Check out our free resources here, or at kidsorchildfree.com/free-resources And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review The Kids or Childfree Podcast if you love what you’re hearing! You can leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, or a rating on Spotify. Find us online at www.kidsorchildfree.com. Instagram: www.instagram.com/kidsorchildfree
Your questions, answered! In this very first episode of my new Dear Former Fence-Sitter series, I sit down with former guest — mom, therapist, and former fence-sitter, Amanda E. White — to answer questions that include... How do I decide if I don't feel strongly about having kids one way or the other? If I'm scared of pregnancy and childbirth, what advice do you have for me? I'm a step-mom and struggling to figure out if I want kids of my own — what to do? How do I navigate my relationships with my mom friends as a childfree woman? What was beneficial in preparing yourself for parenthood, and that made you realize you could do it? As mentioned in the show: Listen to my original conversation with Amanda, where she shares her personal Kids or Childfree journey, here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4ir3CeSSRRLLh2PbVwQn1h Tune into my Between Friends conversation with Lauren Grant, here: www.kidsorchildfree.com/between-friends-event Find Amanda on Instagram: instagram.com/therapyforwomen Read Amanda's Fence Sitter Substack: amandaewhite.substack.com Listen to Amanda's Nuance Needed Podcast here: https://open.spotify.com/show/73G84FVO6k5lIAaRWhzlUi?si=39f1a6ffbd444408 Learning about Amanda's therapy practice, Therapy for Women Center: www.therapyforwomencenter.com About Amanda: Amanda E. White is a licensed therapist and the creator of the popular Instagram account @therapyforwomen. She writes a substack called Fence Sitter. She is the author of the book “Not Drinking Tonight” and its corresponding workbook. She is the founder of the group therapy practice, Therapy for Women Center, based in Philadelphia serving clients across the country. She has been featured in notable publications such as Forbes, Washington Post, Shape, Women’s Health Magazine, and more. To learn more visit amandaewhite.com __ Get the details and attend one of our Kids or Childfree workshops here: www.kidsorchildfree.com/workshop Check out our free resources here, or at kidsorchildfree.com/free-resources And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review The Kids or Childfree Podcast if you love what you’re hearing! You can leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, or a rating on Spotify. Find us online at www.kidsorchildfree.com. Instagram: www.instagram.com/kidsorchildfree TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@kidsorchildfree
In this episode, Keltie speaks with colleague, Sina Scheithauer, about her experience being on the fence about kids; how she made her childfree decision; and her work as a coach helping women with the "kid question" in Germany, and beyond. The two of them discuss: The complexities of the Kids or Childfree decision, including societal expectations surrounding motherhood. How Sina's personal experience grappling with this choice led her to support others in similar situations. The idealization of motherhood and the pressures women feel to conform to traditional roles, plus, the undervaluation of motherhood in society. The implications of freezing eggs as a means to buy time. Why living a life aligned with personal values is crucial. Ethical dilemmas related to climate change and the Kids or Childfree choice. About Sina Sina Scheithauer is a Podcaster & Coach for the „Kinderfrage“ decision, living in Germany. As mentioned in the show Tune into Sina's Childfree Coffee Club Podcast (in German) here. Find Sina on Instagram at: www.instagram.com/sinascheithauer/ And on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sina-scheithauer-2635a42aa/ Check out Sina's free „Kinderfrage Entscheidungs Quiz“ here: www.sina-scheithauer.de/quiz/ __ Details on my Clarity Booster offer, here: www.kidsorchildfree.com/claritybooster Check out our free resources here, or at kidsorchildfree.com/free-resources And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review The Kids or Childfree Podcast if you love what you’re hearing! You can leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, or a rating on Spotify. Find us online at www.kidsorchildfree.com. Instagram: www.instagram.com/kidsorchildfree
Jejj
So many good thoughts about childfree decision making - many opportunities open up when there is an enthusiastic choice.