The Kids or Childfree Podcast

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 [email protected]. 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

In this conversation, Shweta, a childfree woman of Southern Asian background, shares what she calls "the best decision I ever made" — namely, her choice to be childfree. You'll hear her and Keltie discuss:

• How Shweta's upbringing and the gender roles she observed in her extended family influenced her decision.
• The positive response she has received from her family and friends, although her choice goes against the cultural norms.
• Why self-awareness and setting boundaries are important when dealing with societal expectations.
• The concept of antinatalism, and why this is a philosophy that Shweta subscribes to.
•  Shweta's experiences traveling as a childfree woman ...and many more aspects of Shweta's unwavering choice to be childfree.

As mentioned in the show:

Find Shweta online on... Instagram: @childfreesrbuddysmum TikTok: @shwetaramkumar About Shweta:  All of Shweta's social media bios contain the following words: Educator, Adventurer, Foodie, Singer, Dog-Mom, Minimalist, Unconventional, Childfree by Choice, Antinatalist and Egalitarian. She's a multitalented, multipassionate creative woman who has lived and travelled all over the world, worked in a variety of industries and is currently an up and coming entrepreneur with a business that marries up her passions, skillset, knowledge and experience. She's a Southern Asian woman of colour and a pioneer of dismantling the oppressive norms of the conservative, sexist, and patriarchal culture and society she grew up in. As an unmarried childfree millennial woman, her life journey sets a strong example of breaking free from the shackles of disempowering cultural conformity and stand out as a proud black sheep in more ways than one. She's an avid advocate of the childfree lifestyle where she has made valuable contributions through podcast and video interviews, speaking on conventions and conferences and blog posts. She is currently based in Melbourne Australia.

——— Get the details on the upcoming session of the Kids or Childfree group coaching program here: kidsorchildfree.com/group-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 TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@kidsorchildfree

In this conversation, Keltie Maguire asks hospice nurse Julie McFadden the questions on your mind when it comes to your Kids or Childfree decision and all things death and dying.   You'll hear them discuss:

• Julie's personal journey as a nurse and her decision to specialize in hospice care
• How at age 41, Julie is able to have such an attitude of openness about still possibly having children...or not
• Julie's brand-new book, 'Nothing to Fear: Demystifying Death to Live More Fully,' and the worldwide impact of understanding the dying process
• How to prepare for end-of-life care, no matter which Kids or Childfree choice you make — and the misconception that having children guarantees care in old age
• Why whether or not you have kids doesn't actually matter in end-of-life
• Inspiring stories of those who died never having had children
• The beauty of witnessing both birth and death ...in what is a powerful, funny, and moving conversation! 

As mentioned in the show:

Find Julie online at www.hospicenursejulie.com. YouTube: youtube.com/@hospicenursejulie Instagram: instagram.com/hospicenursejulie/ TikTok: tiktok.com/@hospicenursejulie Get Julie's brand-new book, Nothing to Fear: https://a.co/d/5c19mY4 About Julie:  Julie McFadden, BSN, RN has been a nurse for 15 years. Julie is an experienced ICU, and now Hospice/Palliative Nurse. Julie has been featured in Newsweek, USA today, The Atlantic, and several other articles worldwide. Julie has been passionate about normalizing death through education to the masses using social media and now her new book coming out in June- Nothing To Fear. Her TikTok has 1.4M followers, and you can find her on all social media platforms (Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube) at Hospice Nurse Julie. You can find her on TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube. ——— Get the details on my one-on-one coaching offers 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, Keltie is joined by her husband, Chris, for a candid discussion about their decision to be childfree, and namely, how choosing childfree has been for Chris as a man. The two of them discuss:

• Chris's personal journey from ambivalence to confidently childfree
• The role of personal and relationship development in their decision-making process, and how they navigated their decision as a couple
• The challenges and potential resentment that can arise if one partner wants children more than the other
• Topics such as societal pressures, financial considerations, and the desire to maintain their current lifestyle
• How societal pressure and expectations around having children are different for men than women, plus Chris's personal experience with nosy questions and naysayers 
• Chris's feelings about getting a vasectomy and why he's chosen not to have one
• The love they share for their childfree life together, and how they find and create deeper meaning and fulfillment

As mentioned in the show: Find Christian on: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/christianhaefele/ Instagram: instagram.com/chris_ongram/ Episode 10 with Ruby Warrington on Women Without Kids Episodes 5 and 6 where Keltie shares her personal journey to being childfree  About Christian: Christian Haefele is a mountain enthusiast, dog lover, and avid traveler who lives in Munich Germany, with his wife, Keltie, and dog, Shira. His hobbies include ultra-trail running, hiking, and stand-up paddle-boarding. When he's not adventuring, Chris loves enjoying a craft beer or two and cooking up delicious vegan dishes. Chris has previously lived in Vancouver, Canada, and he works in tech sales providing digital solutions to Germany's largest retailers.  ___ 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

Julie Lythcott-Haims — New York Times bestselling author, TED speaker, former Stanford dean, and lawyer — is here to share her wisdom with us on living an authentic life, the impact of helicopter parenting (and how we can break free of this trap, should we choose to become parents), and her experiences as a mom of two adult children. Hear her and Keltie discuss:

• The importance of defining one's unique path in life — and how we can break free of the pressures that surround us.
• Julie's personal path to motherhood — including its challenges and rewards.
• What Julie is seeing and hearing from young people about the decision to have kids or not.
• The danger of today's culture of intensive parenting — and how we can choose to do things differently.
• Why couples should and can prioritize their own well-being, and take time for themselves to maintain a healthy relationship. 
• The challenges of maintaining friendships when one person becomes a parent — and the different values and priorities that can arise.
• The profound learning experience of having children. ...and so much more!

As mentioned in the show:

Find Julie online at julielythcotthaims.com. X: x.com/jlythcotthaims Instagram: instagram.com/jlythcotthaims Facebook: facebook.com/jlythcotthaims/ Julie's books: Real American: A Memoir How to Raise an Adult: Break Free of the Overparenting Trap and Prepare Your Kids for Success Your Turn: How to Be an Adult About Julie: Julie Lythcott-Haims believes in humans and is deeply interested in what gets in our way. Her work encompasses writing, speaking, public service, and activism. She is a New York Times bestselling author of books on human development, a TED speaker, a former Stanford dean, and a lawyer, and she holds degrees from Stanford University (BA), Harvard Law (JD), and California College of the Arts (MFA). She serves on numerous nonprofit boards whose work focuses on equity, education, youth, wellness, and the arts. Julie lives in Palo Alto, California with her partner of over thirty years, their itinerant young adults, and her mother. She is a member of the Palo Alto City Council. __ Get the details on my Clarity Booster coaching offer 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