The Kids or Childfree Podcast

In this conversation, Keltie speaks with author and mother, Astrid Hurault de Ligny, about the complexities of motherhood, including Astrid's experience of maternal regret. You'll hear... Astrid's journey from the decision to have children, through the romanticized notions of motherhood, to the harsh realities of parenting, including the mental load and postpartum depression. How Astrid realized her feelings were more than postpartum depression, but actually, ones of regret that she had chosen motherhood. Why support — or a lack thereof — has played a key role in Astrid's regret. Why regretting motherhood doesn't mean not loving your child, or wishing they weren't born. Why she decided to start her Instagram channel, and ultimately, to write a book detailing her experiences.  The role therapy has played in Astrid's marriage and the support systems that have helped her navigate the challenges of parenting. Which feelings about motherhood are most present for Astrid today. How and if women on the fence about kids can safeguard themselves against regret in motherhood. As mentioned in the show:  Find Astrid's book, Le Regret Maternel, here.  Astrid can be found on Instagram at @le_regret_maternel. Find the book, Regretting Motherhood by Orna Donath, here.  About Astrid: Astrid Hurault de Ligny is a soon-to-be 39-year-old woman who was born in France, and who has been living in Montreal, Canada, since 2008. She and her husband met in Montreal 12 years ago, and have a 6-year-old son together.  _ Join our upcoming Confidently Childfree Coaching intensive, which starts January 25th, here: kidsorchildfree.com/confidently-childfree-group-intensive 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

This week on the podcast, Keltie speaks with composer, Reena Esmail, about her unique journey to getting clear on her choice to pursue a creative life without kids. You'll hear about: How Reena knew that the choice to remain childfree was the right one for her. The dynamic between her and her husband — from his involvement in their childfree decision, to the creative life they share. The autonomy, freedom, and creativity that a childfree life has afforded Reena. The pressures and guilt that can accompany being an only child who chooses not to have children, and how Reena navigated difficult conversations with her parents about her decision. The intersection of career and parenthood, including the concept of legacy, especially for those who choose not to have kids. The significant role that mentorship has played for Reena, in shaping the lives of young, fellow musicians. As mentioned in the show: Find Reena online at www.reenaesmail.com Her Instagram is www.instagram.com/reenaesmail You can find some of Reena's incredible musical compositions on her YouTube channel: youtube.com/@reenaesmailcomposer About Reena: Reena Esmail is a concert composer who writes new music for major orchestras and choirs all over the world. Her work bridges the worlds of Indian and Western classical music, bringing people from different cultures and backgrounds together through music. She was trained at Juilliard, Yale School of Music and did a Fulbright in India.  Reena loves working with young people everywhere she goes, and is always looking for ways to cultivate their unique creative spirits. __ Get our Kids or Childfree Book Guide and other 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, Becca Tucker shares her unique journey as a baker, author, abortion rights advocate, and mom — including how her past abortion is intertwined with her decision to have a child.  You'll hear her and Keltie discuss: The stigma that exists around abortion, and the work Becca is doing to break this stigma Becca's experience of having an abortion at age 20 — including the secrecy she held around it for so long — and why she finally started talking openly about it The importance of breaking down barriers and sharing personal stories to foster understanding and compassion  The complex emotions surrounding both the Kids or Childfree decision and abortion, and the value of emotional agnosticism in navigating these emotions Why our past decisions do not need to define or determine our future parenting decisions or abilities Why an abortion in college allowed Becca to be the parent she is today, and why abortion can be a loving decision for oneself. As mentioned in the show: You can find Becca (including abortion resources) online at thesweetfeminist.com. She is on Instagram at instagram.com/thesweetfeminist/ Becca's Substack is: thesweetfeminist.substack.com Purchase a copy of Baking By Feel here or at your local bookstore. About Becca: Becca Rea-Tucker is an Austin, Texas-based author, baker, and abortion rights advocate. She loves almond croissants and creating spaces where people who have abortions feel seen and supported. Known online as @thesweetfeminist, she merges baking and advocacy to help break down abortion stigma, sharing daily affirmations and resources with a community of thousands. She is the author of the cookbook Baking by Feel, and the upcoming The Abortion Companion. -- Get details on my Clarity Booster offering 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 TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@kidsorchildfree

In this conversation, Rose Diell discusses her debut novel 'Fledging', which explores the complexities of the decision to have children — plus, we hear Rose's personal experience of being on the fence about kids. You'll hear Rose and Keltie discuss: The societal pressures and personal reflections that shape the Kids or Childfree decision. The emotional landscape of regret, acceptance, and the influence of relationships on personal choices. Rose's book 'Fledging', including the creative process behind it, the themes of relationships and parenthood, and the emotional journey of making childfree choices. How diverse narratives and stories about parenthood and fulfillment enrich the conversation around life choices. The independence that comes with being childfree and the relief of making a definitive decision about motherhood. ...and so much more! As mentioned in the show: Purchase Rose's new book, Fledging, at your favorite local bookseller, at renardpress.com, or bookshop.org.  Find Rose on Instagram at: instagram.com/rosediellauthor And on X: x.com/rosediell Learn more about Rose at www.rosediell.com. Hear We Are Childfree's podcast episode about hot and cold regret, here.  About Rose: Rose Diell was born and raised in London but her heritage stems from various places beyond the British Isles. A lover of language in all its forms, she speaks French, Italian and Arabic, and has lived on three continents. Rose writes in her spare time, with the encouragement and support of her writing circle, the Southbank Scribblers. She now lives in London again, with her civil partner and Tolstoy, an extremely fluffy ginger tabby. Fledging is her first novel. ___ Find information on how we can work together 1-on-1 here: kidsorchildfree.com/coaching Join an upcoming Kids or Childfree workshop by signing up 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 TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@kidsorchildfree

In this week's episode, guest Angela Accomando shares the ups and downs of her motherhood journey — a path that has been rooted in resilience, strength, and love.  You'll hear about: The relationship that as Angela shares, "never should have happened" — with a man 23 years her senior, when Angela was just 16 years old. How Angela's early childhood left her longing for the connection she saw that parenthood could offer her. Her experience as a young mother to 3 children, and the challenges of building a business while raising kids.  Angela's harrowing journey through abuse, including the complexities of love and codependency, and the impact of her experiences on her children.  Reflections on Angela's path to healing, the struggles of parenting after trauma, and her eventual journey to find love again.  Angela's advice for those in an abusive partnership who are weighing the Kids or Childfree decision. The role that mindfulness and self-awareness have played in shaping these latter years of Angela's life. As mentioned in the show: Find Angela on Instagram at: instagram.com/angelaccomando Learn more about Conscious Parenting expert, Dr. Shefali: drshefali.com Domestic abuse resources: USA:  https://www.thehotline.org https://www.domesticshelters.org/ Canada: https://www.sheltersafe.ca/ https://ihealapp.ca/ United Kingdom: https://www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk/ https://www.womensaid.org.uk/womens-aid-directory/ Europe: https://ec.europa.eu/justice/saynostopvaw/helpline.html About Angela: Meet Chef Angela Rivera-Accomando, the CEO and founder of Golden Meals. Golden Meals provides organizations with food boxes and prepared meals feeding community members struggling with food insecurity. She has also worked alongside former New York State Senator David Carlucci and Assemblymember Ken Zebrowski in 2019. That partnership led to the change in law to help victims of domestic violence file reports for crimes made against them. She has seamlessly merged her passion for nourishing people with a commitment to social justice—a convergence she never anticipated. ___ Find information on how we can work together 1-on-1 here: kidsorchildfree.com/coaching Join an upcoming Kids or Childfree workshop by signing up 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 TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@kidsorchildfree

In this conversation, Rachel Honeyman shares her personal Kids or Childfree journey, including how she changed her mind about not wanting kids, the fertility journey that ensued when she decided to pursue motherhood — and what life looks like today as a childless-not-by-choice woman.  You'll hear Keltie and Rachel discuss: Why Rachel originally decided not to have kids — and what made her change her mind. Her experiences with fertility challenges and IVF — including the emotional toll of these experiences, the impact on her relationship with her husband, and the importance of mental health and therapy in her healing process. How Rachel made the difficult decision to close the door on children. The different perspectives and feelings Rachel and her husband had about parenthood and their fertility journey. The role that entrepreneurship has played in her life without kids, and the empowerment she found in jujitsu. Why the Kids or Childfree decision is almost always not a single decision, but a series of decisions.  How Rachel is doing today, two years after deciding to stop pursuing motherhood. As mentioned in the show: Find Rachel online at honeybebold.com. You can also connect on LinkedIn at: linkedin.com/in/rachel-honeyman About Rachel: Rachel Honeyman runs honeybebold, where she and her team build bold brands and websites for mission-driven, female-owned service businesses. She runs a podcast called Bold Women in Business. Rachel’s an avid traveler, writer, martial artist, women’s self-defense teacher, and bunny mama to Luna and Lupin, but she cannot keep a plant alive and shouldn’t be allowed to keep buying them. She and her husband are childless not-by-choice after an arduous infertility journey. ___ Want to connect about bringing my Kids or Childfree workshop to your audience? Reach out to me at hello@keltiemaguire.com. Join an upcoming Kids or Childfree workshop by signing up 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 TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@kidsorchildfree

In this solo episode of The Kids or Childfree Podcast, host Keltie Maguire explores the concept of FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) as it relates to the decision of having kids or remaining childfree. You'll hear her discuss: How FOMO can show up on both sides of The Kids or Childfree decision. The peace available when you focus on what you have, rather than what you lack. Personal insights and practical advice on navigating relationships when FOMO shows up — and the importance of cultivating new ones. How shared values and experiences in relationships can help bridge the gap between parents and childfree individuals. Why acknowledging that you are missing out can bring peace and acceptance. The fact that no decision guarantees immunity from life's challenges and struggles. Journaling questions to help you navigate any FOMO that's showing up for you. As mentioned in the show: Access our free resources (including the Between Friends event replay, mentioned in the show) at kidsorchildfree.com/free-resources Sign up to join us for the fall session of the Kids or Childfree Group Program: kidsorchildfree.com/kids-or-childfree-program -- 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 Liz Leedham-Pepin, who shares her powerful journey to motherhood through adoption. You'll hear Liz and Keltie discuss: Liz's lifelong dreams of motherhood, and the emotional rollercoaster of trying to conceive Why Liz decided that motherhood probably wasn't for her after all, and why she and her wife decided to adopt after a life-changing epiphany Insights from Liz's experience navigating the adoption process, the importance of self-advocacy, and the unexpected challenges that arose along the journey The importance of openness in adoption, the ethical considerations involved, and the lengthy process of navigating the adoption system in Canada Some of the complexities and challenges of parenting Liz and her wife have faced as an LGBTQ+ couple Liz's experience and perspectives on parenting children with special needs Advice for prospective adoptive parents and reflections on the joys of parenthood About Liz: Liz Leedham-Pepin is a nurse living in British Columbia, Canada, with her wife and their adopted twins. Their family will soon be joined by the twins' younger brother. Liz's professional experience includes time spent working with autistic children and at-risk youth, including youth and teenagers struggling with emotional disturbances, addiction, mental health, homelessness, and prostitution. Liz's nursing experience includes emergency and on-call forensic nursing, and supporting moderate to severe mental health and addiction.  ___ Join the upcoming Kids or Childfree Group Program here: 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 and Kate Brightwell explore the complexities of choosing a childfree life, including what it means to be a childfree woman in the workplace. You'll hear Keltie and Kate discuss: The pressures Kate faced to have children, despite having always known she didn't want any. How being childfree has impacted Kate's romantic partnerships and dating experiences. Kate's experience of feeling othered in the workplace due to her childfree status. The dynamics of workplace culture and the experiences of those who do not conform to traditional family structures. The intersection of the Kids or Childfree decision and women's reproductive rights — and why using your voice and voting power is as important as it's ever been. Cultural perceptions of childlessness and the significance of personal choices in shaping one's career and life path. As mentioned in the show: Find Kate on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kate-brightwell-a195b528/ About Kate: Kate is a lobbyist and tech public policy specialist, based in London. She has previously worked for a leading US tech company, global management consultancies, and the UK election regulator. Her passion for politics has enabled her to focus on public policy that impacts society and is what has driven her career to date. Kate is currently taking a career break, which she describes as her "maternity leave without a baby"! During this period of fun-employment she is thinking long and hard about what comes next while enjoying traveling in her campervan around Europe and spending overdue time with loved ones. She also has a side hustle as a dog sitter. ___ Join the upcoming Kids or Childfree Group Program here: 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 episode, Keltie chats with coach and The Single Greatest Choice podcast host, Katie Bryan, about her journey of choosing to have a child on her own. You'll hear them discuss: The complexities of deciding whether to wait for a partner or pursue solo parenthood. Katie's initial plans of being a stay-at-home mom and how her divorce at 28 changed everything. Katie's experiences of dating and settling in relationships, as well as the decision to freeze her eggs.  The process of finding a sperm donor and undergoing IUI, plus the emotions of shame, regret, and hopelessness that accompanied her journey. Why personal growth and self-love are essential in embracing the path of single motherhood. Katie's positive experience with pregnancy and the joy she felt in carrying her son, plus, what solo motherhood is like today. How support from friends and loved ones can make a significant difference during the process of becoming a solo mother by choice. How Katie provides support and coaching for women considering solo motherhood and has created a community for them to connect and share their experiences. As mentioned in the show: Find Katie online at www.singlegreatestchoice.com. Instagram: instagram.com/single_greatest_choice Tune into the Single Greatest Choice Podcast: singlegreatestchoice.com/podcast Learn about the U.S. Donor Conceived Council, and the resources they offer, here: https://www.usdcc.org/ Learn about the company Katie shares, that offers ethical donor matching: https://www.theseedscout.com/ About Katie: Katie Bryan is a coach, community facilitator, and single mother by choice. After a divorce in her late 20s and an exhausting decade of unsuccessful dating, Katie decided she was ready to separate her desire for motherhood from her desire to find a life-partner. While solo motherhood was most certainly a Plan B, choosing to pursue pregnancy through IVF and donor conception is the single greatest choice she's ever made. She is now a mama to her 3 year old son and has pivoted her career to support other women who are considering or pursuing solo motherhood. She hosts The Single Greatest Choice Podcast and provides 1:1 and group coaching as well as retreats for women who are considering having a child on their own through pregnancy or adoption. — Get details on my Clarity Booster offering 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 TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@kidsorchildfree

In this episode, Keltie speaks with writer and author, Jackie Shannon Hollis, about what happens when you fall in love with a man who doesn't want children, joyfully commit to a life together...and then begin longing for a child, shortly after your wedding day.  You'll hear them discuss: The importance of being intentional in our choices and not being locked into societal expectations. The role of other people's opinions and how Jackie managed her feelings of longing for a child while being in a relationship with someone who didn't want kids. Why there is no right or wrong answer when it comes to having kids. How Jackie made peace with the decision not to have children and how she found joy and fulfillment in other areas of life. The challenges and rewards of aging without children, and the richness that comes from focusing on what one has rather than what one does not have. As mentioned in the show: Purchase Jackie's book, This Particular Happiness: A Childless Love Story, here: jackieshannonhollis.com/purchase Find Jackie online at www.jackieshannonhollis.com. Facebook: facebook.com/Jackie.Shannon.Hollis Instagram: instagram.com/jackie.shannon.hollis Threads: threads.net/@jackie.shannon.hollis Join an upcoming quarterly "fireside" chat on Zoom, with childless elders the NoMoCrones (Non Mom Crones): gateway-women.com/gateway-elderwomen/ About Jackie: Jackie Shannon Hollis is a writer, storyteller, speaker, and the author of the memoir, This Particular Happiness: A Childless Love Story (Forest Avenue Press). Her writing has been described as honest and intimate, exploring complex human issues in prose that is both direct and lyrical. Her work has appeared in various literary magazines, including The Sun, Rosebud, Inkwell, High Desert Journal, VoiceCatcher, Nailed, and Slice Magazine. — Join the upcoming Kids or Childfree Group Program here: 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 episode, Keltie reflects on the insights and takeaways from the second season of The Kids or Childfree podcast.  -- 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 interviews Nicole Louie: writer, translator, and author of the brand-new book, Others Like Me: The Lives of Women Without Children. You'll hear them discuss: Nicole's experience of not wanting to become a mother from a young age and the challenges she faced in navigating societal expectations. The importance of turning up the volume on one's own voice and inner knowledge when making the decision to be childfree. The inspiration behind Others Like Me, and how it's fourteen stories highlight the diversity of experiences and perspectives within the childfree community. The complexities of the decision to have children or remain childfree. The need for inclusivity and understanding among women without children, and the dangers of imposing labels and categories on others.  How intergenerational connections between women without children of different ages can provide support, wisdom, and inspiration. As mentioned in the show: Find Nicole on Instagram: instagram.com/bynicolelouie And on Twitter: twitter.com/bynicolelouie Read Nicole's book, Others Like Me: The Lives of Women Without Children.  About Nicole: Nicole Louie is a writer and translator based in Ireland. A former content strategist and creative writer for virtual assistants, she holds a BA in advertising and postgraduate diplomas in literature and translation. When not writing, she is reading about the lives of women without children. Her essays have appeared in Oh Reader and Childfree Magazine and her curated collections of books, movies, and podcasts about women who are not mothers by choice, infertility, circumstance or ambivalence can be found on Twitter and Instagram: @bynicolelouie. Others Like Me: The Lives of Women Without Children is her first book. About Others Like Me: Others Like Me: The Lives of Women Without Children by Nicole Louie (published by Dialogue Books in the UK in June & House of Anansi in North America in Nov 2024). A deeply personal exploration of childless and childfree women in their own words. Others Like Me is the story of fourteen women around the world, from different walks of life, who don't have children. It's also the story of why Nicole Louie had to find them and what they taught her. Part memoir, part exploration of childlessness through candid conversations, this book showcases the many ways in which people find fulfillment outside of parenthood. And because the social expectation to procreate weighs the most on women, Louie focuses solely on them, their experiences, and how they flourish outside of motherhood. In doing so, she upends the stereotypes that diminish women who are not mothers and offers reassurance and companionship on a path less known. — 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 TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@kidsorchildfree

In this conversation, Keltie interviews her colleague and mentor, Merle Bombardieri — author of The Baby Decision, clinical social worker, and parent decision coach — about the decision to have or not have children. You'll hear them discuss: How couples can navigate disagreements on this topic and find a solution that works for both partners. Why there's no obligation to do anything special as a childfree person, and also, many childfree individuals end up doing extraordinary things.  Some of the more recent factors that Merle has seen over her 45-year career, which are making the Kids or Childfree decision more difficult. Tips for addressing a fear of pregnancy and loss of control over one's body during pregnancy and child birth. The societal pressures and expectations surrounding the Kids or Childfree decision — plus guidance on how to navigate these concerns and make an informed choice. Why having one child could be an excellent — yet often-overlooked — option for fence-sitters. The existential questions and mortality that can be stirred up by this decision, and the importance of curiosity and self-trust in the decision-making process.   As mentioned in the show: Find Merle online at thebabydecision.com. Instagram: instagram.com/thebabydecision Facebook: facebook.com/thebabydecision About Merle: Merle Bombardieri, MSW, LICSW, has been a private practice clinical social worker and psychotherapist for over 30 years. She specializes in parenthood decision-making, infertility, adoption, and making the most of a childfree life. The first edition of her book The Baby Decision was published in 1981. She lives in St. Petersburg, Florida, and Peterborough, New Hampshire.  — 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 TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@kidsorchildfree

In this conversation, Keltie speaks with author, actress, and model, Alice Grecyzn, about Alice's decision to be childfree, and the ups and downs she has faced along the way to making this choice. You'll hear them discuss: Alice's experience of an ultra-religious upbringing, losing her faith — and how both have influenced her childfree path The parallels between fundamentalist religion and the pressures that we all face in our lives The role that questioning the ethics of motherhood has played in Alice's decision The "ingredients" that Alice discovered non-regretful parents to possess  The parts of motherhood that Alice has had to grieve — and what this mourning process entailed Why we can't separate who we are – nor our circumstances — from the Kids or Childfree decision  What Alice's exploration of the Kids or Childfree decision looked like with her partner ...plus, they touch on so many other aspects of the mixed emotions and complexity that can accompany this decision.  As mentioned in the show: Find Alice online at alicegreczyn.com Instagram: instagram.com/alicegreczyn Read Alice's substack: alicegreczyn.substack.com Buy Alice's memoir, Wayard, here: https://a.co/d/hP503cM About Alice: Alice Greczyn is an author, actress, and model. Known for her acting roles in film and TV, Alice is now more recognized for her work as a religious trauma recovery advocate, appearing on prominent podcasts and presenting at conferences on the topics of purity culture, neurotheology, and finding meaning in life as an atheist. Alice founded DaretoDoubt.org in 2019 connecting those fleeing spiritual abuse with resources helping survivors heal from the unintended damage of faith-based beliefs. A controversial figure for her outspokenness against religious and political fundamentalism, Alice finds her deepest sense of purpose helping others free themselves from the shackles of fear and shame. She lives in LA with her cat and fiancé and loves hiking, learning, and eating anything with melted cheese. — 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 TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@kidsorchildfree

In this conversation, Keltie Maguire interviews Dr. Natasha Ghosh, a therapist and coach, about her journey into motherhood and the decision to have children. You'll hear them discuss: The mixed emotions and uncertainties that come with becoming a mother, as well as the external pressures and societal expectations surrounding parenthood.  The importance of listening to your own voice and making choices based on personal desires and values — plus how to tap into this inner voice. How trusting oneself and cultivating self-love can help in navigating the challenges and uncertainties of parenthood. Fear of regret and the challenge of trusting oneself in making this decision. Practical tools for connecting with oneself, cultivating inner knowing, and managing anxiety and fear in the decision-making process. ...and so many other aspects of this choice. As mentioned in the show: Find Natasha online at www.digdeepcounselling.com. Instagram: instagram.com/digdeepcounselling/ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/natashaghosh About Natasha: With over 20 years of experience in the field of Psychology, Dr Natasha Ghosh, PhD, MEd, CHyp, RCC, is an expert in helping people feel more emotionally grounded, peaceful, purposeful and in charge of their life. Natasha’s practice is rooted in science and soul; integrating both evidence-based therapies, strong intuition and specialized techniques that lead to deep healing and transformation. You will develop and discover clarity and make sustainable change so that you can live fully and fearlessly. — 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 TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@kidsorchildfree

In this episode, The Childless Collective online community host, Katy Seppi, shares her journey of infertility and becoming childfree not by choice.  You'll hear her and Keltie discuss:  Katy's personal experience with infertility, IVF, and endometriosis — and the challenges of accessing proper medical care. How and when Katy decided to stop fertility treatments and pursue a hysterectomy.  How the lack of support and understanding from the healthcare system can exacerbate the emotional and physical challenges faced by individuals struggling with infertility and reproductive health issues. The difficult decisions that come with choosing to stop trying for a child. The harmful messaging around never giving up on having a child and the complexities of fertility treatments, surrogacy, and adoption. The nuances and complexities of the terms 'childless' and 'childfree' and the societal pressures associated with these choices ...in what is a heartfelt, raw, and important conversation.  As mentioned in the show: Check out Katy's community for childless women and non-binary people, The Childless Collective, here: childlesscollective.com Find Katy on TikTok here: tiktok.com/@childlesscollective And on Instagram here: instagram.com/childlesscollective About Katy: Here's what Katy shares about her story: "My four-year infertility journey ended with a hysterectomy in 2017. At the time, I didn’t have a single person I could talk to who was also involuntarily childless. I decided to use my background in community organizing to create gathering places for childless people to connect, access support, and talk about the common themes that weave through our experiences. I host the Childless Collective online community, which is a year-round hub of connection and support for childless women and nonbinary people. I've also hosted the Childless Collective Summit for the past four years, bringing together 100 speakers and over 8,000 attendees together. I have a Master’s of Social Work degree from UGA, with an emphasis in community empowerment and program development. My current home is Savannah, Georgia, where I spend my free time on my bike, exploring swamps, reading, hanging out with my favorite people, finding the best tiki drinks, and anything else that strikes my fancy." —  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

Travel journalists and long-time couple, Scott and Collette Stohler, share their journey of deciding to have a child and how it's impacted their adventurous lifestyle.  You'll hear them and Keltie discuss: Why having a child doesn't have to mean giving up travel, adventure, and freedom Challenges of the postpartum period and the transformation it brought to their identities Their experiences navigating the challenges and joys of parenting, travel, and their relationship as a couple The importance of communication, openness, and flexibility in maintaining a strong partnership and family dynamic The joys and challenges of traveling with a child ...and many other topics, for a conversation that's sure to inspire, no matter which Kids or Childfree choice you ultimately make. As mentioned in the show: Find Collette and Scott online at roamaroo.com And on social media at: Facebook: facebook.com/roamaroo TikTok: tiktok.com/@roamaroo_travel YouTube: youtube.com/c/Roamaroo Instagram: instagram.com/roamaroo About Collette & Scott: Here's what this adventurous family has to say: "We are Collette, Scott, and baby Scotland, family travel journalists dedicated to inspiring & empowering families to travel. As a traveling family, we believe that there is no age limit on adventure and no limit to what families can accomplish together. We have 18 special years as a family and we hope you’ll join us as we dream big, explore more, and discover life. In 2015, we decided to quit our jobs as corporate desk jockeys and redefine the American Dream. Since then, we have been traveling the world full-time, exploring off the beaten path locations and inspiring others through our active vagabond lifestyle.  We rented our house, quit our jobs, and threw caution to the wind all with an end goal of viewing the world and all its wonders. In 2022, we decided to grow our traveling family when we welcome our baby girl, Scotland, and our dog, Lucy, to the crew!" ___ Get the details on the summer session of my group coaching program, Confidently Childfree, 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 TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@kidsorchildfree

In this episode, Dr. Jay Zigmont, a childfree wealth expert, shares his experiences as a childfree man, alongside the challenges and opportunities for childfree people when it comes to their financial and life planning.  Hear Dr. Jay and Keltie discuss: The lack of representation and understanding for childfree individuals and the judgment they often face. The importance of questioning societal expectations and making decisions based on personal desires and values. The need for financial planning tailored to the unique needs and goals of childfree individuals. That although being childfree does not automatically make someone wealthy, it does provide more flexibility and freedom in life choices. The importance of creating a life plan and financial plan that align with personal goals and values. ...and so many more important topics related to finances, freedom, and the lives of childfree people.  As mentioned in the show: Find Dr. Jay on Instagram: instagram.com/childfreewealth/ On LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/childfree-wealth/ Find out more about Dr. Jay and Childfree Wealth at childfreewealth.com. Pre-order Dr. Jay's upcoming book, The Childfree Guide to Life and Money: https://www.amazon.com/Childfree-Guide-LIfe-Money-Management-ebook/dp/B0CVNPWDTW About Dr. Jay: Jay Zigmont, PhD, MBA, CFP® is the Founder and CEO of Childfree Wealth®, a life and financial planning firm dedicated to helping Childfree and Permanently Childless people. Childfree Wealth is the first life and financial planning firm dedicated to serving Childfree people. Dr. Jay is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™, Childfree Wealth Specialist, and author of the book “Portraits of Childfree Wealth” and the upcoming book “The Childfree Guide to Life and Money.” Dr Jay is the co-host of the Childfree Wealth podcast. His Ph.D. is in Adult Learning from the University of Connecticut. He has been featured in Fortune, Forbes, MarketWatch, Wall Street Journal, New York Times, Business Insider, CNBC, and many other publications. In 2023, he was named a “Rising Star” by Financial Planning. —— Get the details on the summer session of my group coaching program, Kids or Childfree, 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 TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@kidsorchildfree

Therapist, mother, and founder of the popular @therapyforwomen Instagram account, Amanda E. White, shares her personal experience of being on the fence about having kids — and how she arrived her her decision to become a mom.  Hear her and Keltie discuss: The complexity of the Kids or Childfree decision, and factors such as societal pressures, personal fears, relationship dynamics, and emotional readiness. Fear of regret, and how this plays into the choice to have kids or remain childfree. Exploring ambivalence and making informed, conscious choices. How social media and other online content can impact decision-making and contribute to further confusion. ...and so many more important aspects of this decision.  As mentioned in the show: Find Amanda on Instagram: instagram.com/therapyforwomen Read Amanda's Fence Sitter Substack: amandaewhite.substack.com 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 on the summer session of my group coaching program, Confidently Childfree, 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 TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@kidsorchildfree