Explore every episode of the podcast The Kids or Childfree Podcast
Dive into the complete episode list for The Kids or Childfree Podcast. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.
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Title
Pub. Date
Duration
84. Keltie Maguire on Recent Reflections on my Kids or Childfree Choice
12 Nov 2025
00:41:04
In this solo episode, Keltie shares recent musings, insights, and reflections about her choice to stay childfree.
She's sharing...
How her and Chris's aging parents' needs are intersecting with their decision not to have kids.
The changing seasons of friendships, and how things ebb and flow with and without kids in the picture.
How she personally feels about legacy and the concept of "ancestral flow".
What she's enjoying and appreciating most about her childfree life lately.
(2:57) Caring for aging parents as a childfree couple
(12:45) Planning for her own aging process as a childfree person
(18:09) The challenges of caregiving
(22:55) The ebb and flow of friendships with parent friends & childfree friends
(28:33) Legacy and the concept of "ancestral flow" as a childfree person
(34:38) Current highlights of childfree living
As mentioned in the show:
Listen to the Death, Sex, and Money: To Have Kids or Not Have Kids podcast episode.
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83. Helen Taylor on The Meaning and Legacy of a Childfree Life
30 Oct 2025
01:05:12
In this latest podcast episode, Keltie Maguire speaks with Helen Taylor — feminist, retired university professor, and writer — about her choice to live a childfree life and her new memoir, Childless by Choice: The Meaning and Legacy of a Childfree Life.
Keltie and Helen discuss:
Helen's personal journey of childfree living, including the influences that shaped her decision.
The challenges of choosing the childfree path — and the freedoms it has afforded her.
Helen's abortion experience in early adulthood, and whether she ever thinks about the child she could have had.
How life without children can lead to deeper adult relationships and friendships.
The societal stigmas surrounding childlessness, and the difficulties and blessings of being childfree at age 77
The role that regret, meaning, and legacy play for Helen, as a woman without children.
(1:46) Meet Helen and her Kids or Childfree decision
(10:50) Making the childfree choice 50 years ago, without childfree role models
(20:10) Helen's abortion when she was 19
(29:44) Maternal relationships Helen has had
(35:22) Pros and cons of childfree living; navigating regret and comparison
She taught English and American literature at three universities – West of England, Warwick and Exeter, where she was Head of English and is now Emeritus Professor. She has published widely on the literature and culture of the American South, as well as British and American women's writing. For many years, she has been a Chair, Curator and participant in many literary festivals, including Bath, Cheltenham, Oxford, Fowey, Budleigh Salterton and Clifton, and she was the first Director of the Liverpool Literature Festival. She is currently writing a book on Daphne du Maurier for the series 'Writers and Their Works'. She lives in Bristol.
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74. Keltie Maguire on The Key Beliefs I Needed to Change to Make my Kids or Childfree Choice
30 Jul 2025
00:19:06
In this solo episode of the Kids or Childfree Podcast, clarity coach Keltie Maguire shares four key beliefs that she had to shift in order to embrace her childfree choice.
(1:18) Belief 1: I will "just know" in a lightbulb moment.
(3:37) Belief 2: There's a right choice and a wrong choice.
(8:34) Belief 3: There is one path to a happy life.
(12:24) Belief 4: I am a victim of my decisions. Life is something that happens to me, not something I choose.
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73. Elissa Strauss on When You Care
23 Jul 2025
00:58:17
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.
(1:40) Meet Elissa & hear about her path to motherhood
(10:38) Elissa's fears about caregiving as a parent compared to reality
(29:17) How formula feeding changed caregiving for her and her husband
(35:20) Fairytale vs. Nightmare depictions of motherhood
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.
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72. Dr. Amanda Adeleye, MD on Empowering Fertility Journeys with Knowledge
16 Jul 2025
01:08:23
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
(0:29) Meet Amanda
(5:21) About Roon
(10:00) Information and misinformation about fertility (13:37) endometriosis, (17:21) aging & pregnancy above age 35
(25:10) Amanda's advice for the Kids or Childfree decision
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.
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71. shawndeez, Ph.D. on Parenthood as a Spiritual Journey
09 Jul 2025
01:07:50
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.
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).
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70. Charlotte Holmes on Your Most True and Aligned Self
02 Jul 2025
01:15:11
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.
(1:32) Meet Charlotte & her confidently childfree choice
(16:55) Charlotte's decision to donate her eggs & the egg donation process
(33:35) Finding your meaning and purpose
(53:50) Applying self-compassion and leaving judgement behind
(57:10) How Charlotte navigated the Kids or Childfree choice in her marriage, divorce, and new love
(1:07:00) Experiencing grief and happiness at the same time
"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."
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69. Heidi Reimer on The Unspoken Parts of Motherhood
25 Jun 2025
01:15:13
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)
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.
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.
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.
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66. Dear Former Fence-Sitter #2 with Amanda E. White, LPC
04 Jun 2025
00:57:20
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?
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
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!
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.
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!
82. Dear Former Fence-Sitter #3 with Amanda E. White, LPC
22 Oct 2025
00:56:32
We're back for another episode of our Dear Former Fence-Sitter series with mom, therapist, and former fence-sitter, Amanda E. White!
(3:02) Meet Amanda
(8:01) Question 1: I feel like having a child will mean a more fulfilled life, but I can't seem to focus on anything but the downsides of parenthood. What should I do?
(23:10) Question 2: If I don't like other people's kids, is it still possible I'd enjoy having my own?
(36:31) Question 3: How do I know if the pull I feel to have a child comes from within — or is just external pressure?
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
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64. Dr. Jennifer Watling Neal on The Latest Research on the Childfree Choice
21 May 2025
01:03:39
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.
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.
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!
63. Kristina Chilian on The Long View of Parenthood
14 May 2025
01:16:39
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.
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.
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62. Anne Wennhold on Being Childfree by Choice at 90
07 May 2025
01:06:52
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!
(1:00) Meet Anne
(10:01) Anne's Kids or Childfree decision, made in the 1940s
(19:22) Being childfree by choice with her husband & becoming a widow at 34
(34:14) Feeling left out as a childfree person
(44:55) Conscious elderhood
(50:45) Old age as a spiritual journey
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."
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61. Keltie Maguire on Key Coaching Takeaways During Season 4
23 Apr 2025
00:35:07
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.
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!
60. Gabrielle Salomone on Navigating a Fear of Childbirth
16 Apr 2025
01:03:45
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 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.
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!
59. Dear Former Fence-Sitter #1 with Amanda E. White, LPC
09 Apr 2025
00:57:41
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?
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
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!
58. Sina Scheithauer on Answering the Kid Question in Germany and Beyond
02 Apr 2025
00:58:49
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.
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!
57. Carly Church on The First Few Months of Motherhood
26 Mar 2025
01:12:25
In this episode, Keltie Maguire speaks with one of her long-time friends, Carly Church, about life as a new mom, and how Carly made her decision to have a child.
Keltie and Carly chat about:
Carly's journey from single to meeting her partner, Mike; the experience of becoming a step-mom to Mike's two daughters — and how this relationship influenced Carly's own Kids or Childfree choice; and Carly's decision to become a mom.
Carly's decision to freeze her eggs in her mid-30s — and why she's so happy she did.
Her experiences as a step-parent and a first-time mom, including the importance of partner support, and the challenges of navigating relationships with stepkids.
How Carly went from ambivalent about motherhood, to deciding to have a child — including the natural unfolding of her family life.
The joys and challenges of motherhood and the impact on her identity and independence, thus far in her journey.
About Carly:
Carly Church has a habit of choosing to swim against the tide. Trained as a Professional Engineer and then moving on to work across the globe in the mining industry she has often found herself blazing a trail for women in the industry. A love for travel, both recreational and as part of long-term rotations on mining projects from Botswana to the rather more chilly, Northern Ontario, defined Carly's life in her 20s and 30s. Now a mother to James (0) and step-mother to Martha (11) and Edith (9), Carly is navigating how to balance the needs of her new family with the professional and personal pursuits which have always driven 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!
In this conversation, Keltie Maguire and philosopher, Ruth Chang, explore the complexities of hard choices, and in particular, the decision to have kids or remain childfree.
They discuss...
The idea of drifting into decisions — and why it's a valid decision tactic.
That hard choices aren't about finding the right answer, but about understanding one's values and making a commitment to a chosen path.
The nature of commitment and decision-making, and that commitment is not merely a rational choice based on pros and cons but an active agency that transforms our values and perspectives.
Why commitment involves understanding who you can become, not just who you want to be. Plus, the importance of self-reflection in understanding who we can commit to becoming.
The necessity of embracing uncertainty in the decision-making process.
...and lots more!
About Ruth:
Ruth Chang holds the Chair of Jurisprudence at the University of Oxford. Her expertise concerns philosophical questions relating to the nature of value, value conflict, decision-making, rationality, love, and human agency. She has shared her research in public venues including radio, television, and newspaper outlets such as National Public Radio, the BBC, National Geographic, and The New York Times. The institutions she lectured at or consulted for include Google, the CIA, the World Bank, the US Navy, the Bhutan government, Big Pharma, and many businesses and financial institutions. Her TED talk on hard choices has over nine million views. She is a member of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences.
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!
55. Tyler Pentland on Becoming a Father Through Surrogacy
12 Mar 2025
01:11:28
In this episode, Keltie speaks with artist and dad, Tyler Pentland, who shares his journey of becoming a father through surrogacy.
Hear the two of them discuss:
Why Tyler never considered kids or fatherhood until he met his husband, Jeff, in his late 30s.
The decision to have a child via surrogacy, including both the emotional and logistical aspects of growing a family in this way.
The importance of establishing a foundation of communication and trust in the relationship with one's surrogate.
The joy of becoming a parent, plus the surprises and challenges along the way.
About Tyler:
In Tyler's words: "I'm Tyler, an art kid who grew up in the Okanagan and went to Art & Design school. I worked in corporate design & marketing for 17 years while maintaining a strong connection to my painting practice, showcasing my artwork on social media and gallery spaces. Fell in love in 2019, married my husband & now partner in parenting the miracle that is our incredible sunshine of a daughter, Emerald."
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!
81. Laura Carroll on the Influence of Pronatalism on Your Kids or Childfree Choice
15 Oct 2025
01:10:09
In this conversation, we hear from writer and researcher, Laura Carroll, about how societal and cultural narratives — including pronatalist beliefs — influence and shape our Kids or Childfree desires and the choices we ultimately make.
Keltie and Laura...
Delve into the complexities of choosing a childfree life, and the idea of "shifting sureness".
Discuss Laura's extensive research on childfree individuals and her works, "25 over 10" and "The Baby Matrix".
Explore the importance of questioning societal norms and the impact of personal experiences on life decisions.
Unpack some of the deep-rooted beliefs that influence individuals' decisions to have children.
Explore the notion that childfree individuals are responsible for societal issues resulting from population decline.
(0:27) Meet Laura and her Kids or Childfree decision
(10:03) Laura's 10-year study of 25 childfree women
(16:30) Defining "pronatalism" and its impact on people's decision
(29:28) Should parenting require a license?
(37:10) The sinking population rate and reproductive freedom
(51:07) Demographic and statistic shifts in childfree people
Laura Carroll is an internationally recognized expert on the childfree choice and pronatalism. She has studied the childfree choice and those who make it for over 25 years, and pronatalism for 15 years. Laura has authored six books and contributed to textbooks. Since 2000, she has been featured on network television, been a guest on many podcasts and radio talk shows, as well as US and Canadian public radio. She and her work have appeared in many print and digital media publications, including Fortune, The Wall Street Journal, The Guardian, The Globe and Mail, New York Magazine, Women's Health South Africa and UK.
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54. Florence Wlodarski on Pursuing Parenthood When You're Still on the Fence
05 Mar 2025
00:55:05
In this episode, Keltie Maguire speaks with Florence Wlodarski about Florence's Kids or Childfree journey — from ambivalence to IVF to embracing life without kids — plus, the inspiration behind PARALLEL, the social club Florence recently co-founded for those without kids.
Keltie and Florence discuss:
The societal expectations regarding motherhood and the pressures Florence faced to become a mom.
Florence's decision to pursue IVF and the emotional complexities involved in that process.
The experience of trying for a child, while still being on the fence about having one.
Florence's reflections on identity and career that arose from her experiences.
How Florence ultimately found peace and freedom in the decision not to have kids.
The importance of community and connection, and how Florence and her husband co-founded Parallel Social Club, to support others in similar situations.
About Florence:
Florence Chung Wlodarski is the Co-Founder of PARALLEL, a new social club and community based out of Los Angeles, designed for those doing life without kids. In her professional life, she spent more than 20 years building community engagement strategies and partnerships between Fortune 500 corporations, nonprofit organizations and government agencies (with a speciality working with law enforcement) in the U.S. Now she's taking her experience and applying them to building a community for DINKs and SINKs.
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!
53. Sophia Seymour on Freezing Your Eggs When You're on the Fence
26 Feb 2025
00:56:25
In this conversation, Keltie Maguire interviews filmmaker Sophia Seymour about her personal journey with egg freezing, and her documentary, Harvest, which Sophia created about the experience.
You'll hear them discuss:
The emotional and physical aspects of the egg-freezing process, and the decision-making involved.
The societal pressures surrounding motherhood and fertility.
Sophia's advice for anyone considering freezing their eggs.
Why she wouldn't recommend egg-freezing as a means of getting clarity on the Kids or Childfree choice, despite having done so herself.
Insights from her discussions with other women about the decision to have or not have kids.
About Sophia:
Sophia Seymour is a British award-winning writer/director living between London and Naples and writes regularly for The Guardian, Condè Nast and Time Out. She has a background in music management and highlights of her career so far include co-directing/producing Teranga - Life in the Waiting Room (Guardian Documentaries and BBC Africa Eye), appearing alongside Richard E Grant for his BBC4 Write Around the World series and working with Paolo Sorrentino for his Netflix documentary Through the Eyes of Sorrentino. She has worked as a producer on documentaries for the Guardian, Netflix, BBC2, BBC4 and graduated with a masters from The National Film and Television school in 2024. She is currently developing a slate of fiction and non-fiction films.
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!
52. Dr. Laura Buchinger on Life Satisfaction and The Kids or Childfree Choice
19 Feb 2025
00:59:35
In this conversation, Keltie Maguire speaks with lifespan psychologist and post-doctoral researcher, Dr. Laura Buchinger, about her latest research on how parents versus childfree people fare in terms of well-being, mental health, and overall life satisfaction.
Hear them discuss:
What existing research tells us about how parents and non-parents fare at different stages of life and across various aspects of well-being.
The gender differences in experiences of loneliness and social connections.
Whether or not childfree people are lonelier than parents.
How societal expectations about parenthood influence life decisions and experiences.
How cultural perspectives that shape attitudes toward having children, and the shifting views of younger generations regarding the childfree choice.
About Laura:
Laura Buchinger is a lifespan psychologist exploring how personality, motivation, health, and well-being evolve throughout life. After earning an undergraduate degree from Chemnitz University of Technology in 2013, she completed a master's degree in Clinical Psychology at Freie Universität Berlin in 2016. Laura began her career as an organizational psychologist and consultant, focusing on occupational health and safety, before transitioning back to academia just before the pandemic. In 2023, she earned a PhD in Psychology from Freie Universität Berlin with a thesis titled "Life Goals Across Adulthood and Old Age: Associations With Personality and Well-Being." Laura is now a post-doctoral researcher in developmental psychology at Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin. Her research focuses on interindividual differences in personality traits, life goals, and values, and their effects on health and well-being across the lifespan
The studies mentioned in our conversation can be found below:
Buchinger, L., Richter, D., & Heckhausen, J. (2022). The Development of Life Goals Across the Adult Life Span. The Journals of Gerontology: Series B, 77(5), 905–915. https://doi.org/10.1093/geronb/gbab154
Buchinger, L., Wahring, I. V., Ram, N., Hoppmann, C., Heckhausen, J., & Gerstorf, D. (2024). Kids or no Kids? Life Goals in one's 20s Predict Midlife Trajectories of Well-Being. Psychology and Aging, 39(8), 897–914. https://doi.org/10.1037/pag0000862
Bauer, G., Brandt, M. & Kneip, T. The Role of Parenthood for Life Satisfaction of Older Women and Men in Europe. J Happiness Stud 24, 275–307 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10902-022-00600-8
Graham, M. (2015). Is being childless detrimental to a woman's health and well-being across her life course?. Women's health issues, 25(2), 176-184. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.whi.2014.12.002
Penning, M. J., Wu, Z., & Hou, F. (2024). Childlessness and social and emotional loneliness in middle and later life. Ageing & Society, 44(7), 1551-1578. https://doi.org/10.1017/S0144686X22000824
Krämer, M. D., Van Scheppingen, M. A., Chopik, W. J., & Richter, D. (2023). The transition to grandparenthood: No consistent evidence for change in the Big Five personality traits and life satisfaction. European Journal of Personality, 37(5), 560–586. https://doi.org/10.1177/08902070221118443
Stahnke, B., Cooley, M. E., & Blackstone, A. (2023). A Systematic Review of Life Satisfaction Experiences Among Childfree Adults. The Family Journal, 31(1), 60–68. https://doi.org/10.1177/10664807221104795
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!
51. Keltie Maguire on The Other Side of a Decision
11 Feb 2025
00:28:31
In this solo episode, host Keltie Maguire answers a listener question about how life looks a few years beyond making her Kids or Childfree choice. Rather than speaking solely from the perspective of being childfree, Keltie shares five key insights that can be applied to any choice you ultimately make.
You'll hear about:
Why making a decision means you can finally get on with your life.
The idea that confidence comes after a choice, not before.
Why practicing presence and peace with what is — rather than what if — is key.
What it means to stay in your own lane — and the benefits of doing so.
Why it's important to recognize that difficult emotions aren't the same thing as having made the wrong choice.
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!
Vasavi Kumar is a therapist, author, and podcast host passionate about empowering individuals to embrace their authentic selves. Living with Bipolar Disorder, Vasavi brings a unique perspective to conversations around mental health, self-talk, and personal growth. As the author of Say It Out Loud and host of the SAY IT OUT LOUD podcast, she inspires audiences to break free from societal expectations and live in alignment with their truth. Through coaching, writing, and speaking, Vasavi helps people build confidence, navigate life's complexities, and create meaningful change.
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!
49. Dr. Hayley Evers-King on Saying Yes to Parenthood in the Face of Uncertainty
29 Jan 2025
00:54:14
In this conversation, Keltie chats with Dr. Hayley Evers-King, a marine scientist and mom of one, about her journey from indecision about parenthood — to ultimately embracing the experience.
Hayley and Keltie discuss:
Hayley's initial reluctance to have children, and the various factors that influenced her decision-making process.
The conversations she had with her husband about their future, and how these ultimately led to a "yes" decision.
How Hayley navigated concerns about how her career would fit with motherhood, and the conversations that helped her explore these anxieties.
The emotional and mental health aspects of IVF and the transition to motherhood.
What having a child has changed – and what it hasn't – and why Hayey's fulfillment in life comes from various sources, and not just parenthood.
The flexibility of life after having children, and the significance of having a supportive partner.
Hayley is a marine scientist, who uses satellites to observe our oceans from space. She currently works at an international organisation that operates weather and environmental satellites, supporting users around the world to work with this data for the benefit of people and planet. She is currently based in Germany, having lived and worked in the UK and South Africa, as well as with colleagues all over the world. She is a keen science communicator, educator, traveller, collector of wine, and an aspiring chef. After a diagnosis of unexplained infertility, she is raising a 3 year old son with her husband with whom she has shared an almost identical career path for the last 15 years.
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!
48. Monica Cardenas, PhD on Maternal Ambivalence and Apathy
15 Jan 2025
01:06:34
In this conversation, Keltie speaks with writer Monica Cardenas, who shares her journey of being childfree by choice, and her research about maternal ambivalence and apathy.
Hear them discuss...
The cultural and societal pressures surrounding motherhood.
The representation of childfree women — and those who are ambivalent or apathetic about motherhood — in literature and media.
Monica's Substack 'Bad Mothers,' which challenges societal judgments about motherhood and emphasizes the importance of recognizing women's choices without stigma.
Literary examples that challenge traditional narratives around a woman's role as mother, and that highlight the importance of normalizing diverse experiences.
The personal implications of these societal norms, including the judgments faced by women who choose not to have children and the impact of family dynamics on these decisions.
The natural ambivalence many feel towards parenthood and the importance of a supportive community that respects individual choices.
Perspectives on the freedom that comes with being childfree and advice for those uncertain about having kids.
Subscribe to Monica's Substack, Bad Mothers, at a special discounted rate, exclusive to Kids or Childfree Podcast listeners: https://monicacardenas.substack.com/kocf
Monica Cardenas holds an MA and PhD in Creative Writing from Royal Holloway, University of London. Her research on motherhood in the 20th-century novel and the evolution of reproductive rights in the U.S. is central to her novel-in-progress The Mother Law, which was longlisted for the Lucy Cavendish College Fiction Prize and runner-up in the Borough Press open submission competition. Her work has been published in The Audacity, Literary Hub, Litro, Catatonic Daughters and Sad Girls Club Lit. She is chair of the Democrats Abroad UK Women's Caucus, and author of the Bad Mothers newsletter. Originally from Washington, D.C., she now resides in the Chiltern Hills just outside London.
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!
47. Brooke Froelich Murray on Outdoor Adventure with Kids
08 Jan 2025
00:51:21
The Kids or Childfree Podcast is back with a brand-new season, and we're kicking it off with a conversation with Brooke Froelich Murray — mom, outdoor adventurer, and founder of the outdoor community, WildKind.
Hear Keltie and Brooke discuss:
Brooke's initial reluctance to have kids, including how her Mormon upbringing influenced her feelings about motherhood
What shifted for Brooke that led her to change her feelings about kids, and how she navigated divorce and solo motherhood with a newborn
The importance of self-care and prioritizing one's own needs as a mom – plus how to balance this with parenting responsibilities
Personal identity outside of motherhood, and how Brooke navigated her decision to have kids as someone who felt she'd so recently discovered her passions in life
Cultivating a supportive and like-minded community when raising children
How critical clear communication with your partner is when raising kids – and what this looks like in practice
What outdoor adventures with children look like, and the ways they're both more challenging — and fulfilling — than those without kids.
Insights from Brooke's project, WildKind, which aims to connect moms through outdoor activities
Interested in checking out an upcoming WildKind adventure in Colorado? Get the details at wildkindinc.com
About Brooke:
Brooke raises her three little adventure buddies in CO. Whether she's wrangling them on skis, chasing them on mountain bikes, changing diapers on top of a mountain (true story), or lazily wading through a creek looking for tadpoles alongside them, Brooke believes she shows up as the best version of herself for her kids when she's outside. With the goal of building community and supporting other mothers, Brooke co-founded WildKind: a community for mothers looking to level up their outdoor adventure. Brooke wholeheartedly believes that adventure is better when shared, and loves to invite others to join along.
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!
46. Keltie Maguire on Key Coaching Takeaways During Season 3
18 Dec 2024
00:41:12
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 3 of The Kids or Childfree Podcast, as well as episodes from Season 3 that address these topics.
You'll hear her discuss:
The concept of alloparenting — a way for individuals who don't want the commitment of parenthood to engage with and support children.
The importance of making peace with past experiences and emotions when considering your Kids or Childfree choice.
How and why navigating difficult emotions is an important part of the Kids or Childfree decision process.
How your romantic partnership's relationship dynamics may be showing up in the Kids or Childfree decision process — and why working through these dynamics is critical to being able to make a confident choice.
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!
45. Jennifer Flint on The Kids or Childfree Decision as a Spiritual Journey
11 Dec 2024
01:19:11
In this episode, Keltie Maguire interviews Jennifer Flint, a women's empowerment coach and author of 'Wild Egg'.
You'll hear about:
Jennifer's journey of choosing a childfree life, her reflections on motherhood, and the existential questions that arise from such a decision.
Insights into the writing of her book, Wild Egg, and why she chose to write it as a fiction book, rather than a memoir.
The empowerment that comes from making deliberate choices, the challenges of defining those choices, and the journey of self-discovery that often accompanies such decisions.
Jennifer's struggle to connect her mind and body and her defining moment of clarity regarding motherhood.
The importance of self-trust and compassion in navigating the Kids or Childfree choice.
The transformative journey of choosing a child-free life and the grief associated with that decision.
Jennifer's journey of self-discovery and empowerment in midlife, and how this connects to her childfree choice.
As mentioned in the show:
Find a list of where Jennifer's book, Wild Egg, can be purchased here.
Jennifer is a Women's Empowerment Coach, leadership development specialist, author of childfree novel Wild Egg, and spiritually-curious seeker. She currently lives in the North East of England with a house mate whom she met whilst volunteering at a Buddhist retreat in Scotland in 2019.
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!
Lia is a licensed feminist clinical social worker who specializes in caring for individuals looking to break out of molds that don't serve them, particularly women and mothers. In her roles as CEO of group support organization, Spoke Circles, Advisor to Head & Heart at THE WELL, and relationship and motherhood columnist for mindbodygreen, Lia supports people in connecting to the wisdom inside themselves, their histories and their communities, in order to find their way. She graduated with distinction from Columbia University and has received awards for innovative research and excellence in the provision of therapeutic care to underserved populations, while managing a national component of President Obama's initiative to reduce teen pregnancy across the nation. Her writing and commentary has been featured in GLAMOUR magazine, The American Journal of Sexuality Education, Best Life, ABC's The Tamron Hall Show, Cosmopolitan, Men's Health, CNBCs MakeIt, Motherly, Oprah Daily and more. Lia lives with her husband and 3 children in Brooklyn, NY.
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44. Keltie Maguire on Astrid's Story and Other Thoughts on Motherhood Regret
04 Dec 2024
00:33:08
In this episode, host Keltie Maguire reflects on her conversation with Astrid Hurault de Ligney (Episode 42), about the complexities of motherhood and the feelings of regret that can accompany it.
This episode touches on...
The key themes that Keltie observed in her conversation with Astrid, including how expectations might help shape feelings of regret, the importance of support, and the role of understanding and compassion in discussions about maternal regret.
Feedback from listeners on this topic and Astrid's experience regretting motherhood.
Keltie's personal views on motherhood regret, and some of the questions she's asking and is curious to explore further.
As mentioned in the show:
Tune into my podcast conversation (Episode 42) with Astrid Hurault de Ligney, 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!
43. Dr. Jade Sasser on Climate Anxiety and The Kid Question
27 Nov 2024
01:02:09
In this conversation, Keltie interviews author and professor, Dr. Jade Sasser, about her book, 'Climate Anxiety and the Kid Question,' which explores the emotional and mental health impacts of climate change on reproductive decisions.
They discuss:
Jade's research exploring how climate anxiety is shaping young people's reproductive decision-making, including the generational differences that exist in awareness and engagement with climate change.
Why emotional distress about climate change often intersects with other factors, including race and class.
How climate anxiety complicates the decision to have children — and why it's essential to consider climate change when exploring the Kids or Childfree choice.
Why, for some, having children can be an act of hope and joy, while for others, forgoing children can bring a sense of relief.
The importance of community support when addressing climate concerns and anxiety.
How youth activism can shift political landscapes regarding climate change.
Jade's personal Kids or Childfree choice — and whether it has anything to do with climate change.
(0:37) Meet Jade and her book, Climate Anxiety and The Kid Question
(11:14) Viewpoints and approaches to climate change & the Kids or Childfree decision across generations
(16:20) Data and facts about climate change & the Kids or Childfree decision
(22:59) Key discoveries about reproductive decision-making and climate change, especially concerning race and other demographic factors
(39:40) Child as a symbol of hope vs. is it right/moral/fair to have a child
Dr. Jade S. Sasser is Associate Professor in the Department of Gender & Sexuality Studies at the University of California, Riverside. She received her PhD in Environmental Science, Policy, and Management from the University of California, Berkeley. Her work explores how environmental problems such as climate change and toxic exposures intersect with reproductive bodies, health, and rights. Her first book, On Infertile Ground: Population Control and Women's Rights in the Era of Climate Change, was published in 2018 by NYU Press and won the Emory Elliott book award. Her new book, Climate Anxiety and the Kid Question: Deciding Whether to Have Children in an Uncertain Future (2024), analyzes the relationship between climate emotions, social inequality, and reproductive anxiety in the U.S. She also has a podcast with the same name. In her free time, Sasser is a DJ at her campus radio station.
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42. Astrid Hurault de Ligny on When You Regret Becoming a Mom
20 Nov 2024
01:25:33
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.
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.
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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!
41. Reena Esmail on Choosing a Creative Childfree Life
13 Nov 2024
01:08:02
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.
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.
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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!
40. Becca Rea-Tucker on Abortion and The Kids or Childfree Choice
06 Nov 2024
00:51:20
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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!
38. Angela Accomando on Surviving Domestic Abuse with Kids
23 Oct 2024
01:17:50
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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Want to connect about bringing my Kids or Childfree workshop to your audience? Reach out to me at hello@keltiemaguire.com.
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!
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.
35. Liz Leedham-Pepin on Becoming a Mom Through Adoption
02 Oct 2024
01:15:40
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.
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!
79. Carrie Hauskens on a Childfree Life After Loss
01 Oct 2025
00:52:39
In this conversation, writer and creative, Carrie Hauskens, shares her deeply personal journey of infertility, loss, and the decision she made — after 8 years of trying to have children — to embrace a childfree life.
Keltie and her discuss:
Carrie's unwavering desire to become a mom — and the beliefs she held about life with kids.
The heartbreaking loss and stillbirth of Carrie's daughter, Clementine.
The moment Carrie knew she could no longer continue on the path to parenthood, and how she has navigated becoming childfree after infertility.
How Carrie finds joy in everyday moments, and the importance of creating new traditions as a childfree person.
The complexity of navigating identity and labels after loss.
How Carrie's relationship with her husband deepened through shared grief, even though the way they experience their grief differs.
The significance of supportive relationships through her journey— and why there were certain friendships she needed to let go of.
(0:46) Meet Carrie & Carrie's kids or childfree journey
(15:30) The clarity Carrie found after the stillbirth of her daughter
(20:40) Meaning and purpose after loss
(29:14) Community and relationships in Carrie's childfree life
(36:54) Carrie's relationship with her husband
(42:52) Labels, including mother vs. bereaved mother, childfree after infertility vs. childless
(46:52) "The miracle is me"
About Carrie
Carrie Hauskens is a freelance writer based in Northern California. Her expertise is writing about infertility and the many tangents that radiate from that experience. Her trademark is vulnerable and authentic writing. After eight years of trying to conceive, multiple miscarriages, working with surrogates, and delivering her stillborn daughter, Carrie embodies all things grief and infertility based.
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34. Kate Brightwell on Being Childfree at Work
24 Sep 2024
01:19:29
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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!
32. Jackie Shannon Hollis on My Childless Love Story
11 Sep 2024
01:08:22
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.
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.
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!