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Is Love Is Blind accidentally telling a regretful parents story?In this solo episode of the Regretful Parents series, Erika dives into the viral Reddit discussion about Love Is Blind Season 6 and the controversial engagement between Emma and Mike — specifically their major disagreement about having children.From pronatalist pressure to “you'd make a great mother” propaganda, this episode breaks down:Why you should NEVER “convince yourself” to have a childThe red flags in Emma and Mike's engagementThe moment when Emma's sister admitted she regrets having kids (and why the internet shamed her for it)Transracial adoption trauma and identity strugglesMedical concerns, genetic testing, and reproductive autonomyItalian family expectations & cultural pressure to have grandchildrenWhy marriage is about compromising paint colors — not parenthoodHave you been watching Love Is Blind this season? What did you think about Emma's sister's honesty? Can a relationship survive when partners disagree about kids? Drop your thoughts in the comments.MORE FROM USWebsite: https://www.dinkypod.com/ Patreon: https://patreon.com/dinkypod Keywords:regretful parents, regretful motherhood, Love Is Blind season 6, Emma and Mike Love Is Blind, childfree by choice, motherhood regret, pro natalism, transracial adoptee, adoption trauma, reality TV analysis, parenting pressure, women and reproductive choice, childfree women, regretful mom story, Netflix Love Is Blind recapBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support.
Want more exclusive content from Dinky? Join the Patreon! We're kicking off Season 10 with a recap of our 2025 Christmas Markets trip and getting a sneak peek ahead at our next adventure. We cover what surprised us, what we loved, and what we'd do differently in, plus with some tips of what we'd do differently! PS: we also preview our upcoming 2026 Christmas Markets trip featuring stops in Vienna and Munich.Please forgive that we are both FULLY sick and FULLY ADHD.TRIPS:Christmas Markets 2026!!! Lavender Dreams & Riviera Nights With ErikaGET MORE FROM DINKY:Treat yourself to new merch! Wanna get your finances in order? Use our link to sign up for a FREE 34 day trial of YNAB (You Need A Budget) and support the show. Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Substack, Instagram, TikTok, and Threads at @dinkypod. Follow us on YouTube.If you have a question or comment, email us at dinky@dinkypod.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support.
Solving the Financial Planning Gaps for Child-Free Clients with Dr. Zay Zigmont, PhD, MBA, CFP® Kathleen and Amy speak with Dr. Jay Zigmont, PhD, CFP®, founder of Child Free Wealth and Child Free Trust, a fiduciary solution built specifically for the growing population of adults without children. Dr. Zigmont is on a mission to address what he calls the "fiduciary void" for the roughly 25% of U.S. adults who are child-free yet are still served by an industry that typically assumes every client has (or will have) kids. Jay shares his personal path from healthcare leadership and academia to financial planning, and what he discovered while earning his CFP®: the standard planning "life script" is baked into the education, tools, and assumptions of our profession. That insight led him to research child-free households, write books on the topic, and ultimately build a planning model aligned with child-free client goals—including a flat annual fee structure designed to eliminate conflicts that can arise when clients want to intentionally spend down assets. We discuss: Why traditional AUM pricing can clash with "Die With Zero" goals How Jay uses a "Die With Zero Safety Net" approach, including long-term care planning, delayed Social Security, and a lower Monte Carlo target paired with ongoing adjustments The estate planning reality for child-free adults—why many don't have documents in place, and how the system assumes a next-of-kin safety net How Child Free Trust works as a nationwide backstop for medical and financial decision-making (POA, executor, trustee), coordinated with care teams and 24/7 support Why long-term care planning is a fiduciary responsibility for every advisor—especially for solo agers—and how clients weigh self-insuring vs. standalone coverage This episode is a practical, thought-provoking look at how our planning process, tools, and business models may need to evolve to better serve a large (and growing) segment of clients—particularly those navigating retirement and aging without children. https://childfreewealth.com/ https://childfreetrust.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/jayzigmont/
Ep 119: For many retirees, the question of who will serve as a power of attorney or executor is often answered by naming their children, but there is a growing population of "solo agers" who don't have that traditional safety net. In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Sara Zeff Geber and Dr. Jay Zigmont to explore how those without children can navigate the complexities of aging, from managing healthcare decisions to protecting their financial legacy. We dive into the creation of the Child-Free Trust, a first-of-its-kind national service that provides professional fiduciary support to ensure you have a dedicated advocate in your corner, regardless of your family structure. Whether you are child-free by choice or circumstance, this conversation offers essential insights into building a secure, independent future and finding a support network that truly has your back. Chapters: 04:11 – Defining Solo Aging: Dr. Geber defines solo agers as those 60+ who lack children or family they can depend on for support as they age. 05:03 – The Service Gap: Dr. Zigmont discusses the "existential crisis" of finding decision-makers for the 15 million child-free people over age 55 who lack a clear next of kin. 08:40 – Legal Protections: The guests highlight the importance of having legal paperwork in place to avoid falling into court-appointed guardianships or conservatorships. 13:27 – The Risk of Naming Friends: Dr. Zigmont and Dr. Geber discuss why relying on friends—who may be the same age or on vacation—can lead to significant burdens and complications. 17:32 – Child-Free Trust Logistics: A breakdown of the subscription model, which includes document creation, a $999 annual membership, and 24/7 emergency response for medical crises. 20:19 – Intentional Planning: Why solo agers should prioritize senior living communities to maintain social networks and ensure they have access to care as they stop driving or face frailty. 24:00 – Combating Elder Fraud: A look at how professional fiduciaries and trusted account contacts can help protect solo agers from sophisticated scams and abuse. 31:24 – Legacy and Purpose: An exploration of how to leave a meaningful "legacy without lineage" through mentorship, leadership, and leaving the world a better place. 37:12 – Challenges in Rural Maine: Dr. Zigmont explains why retirees in remote areas like Maine must stress-test their plans against limited local caregiving resources. 43:56 – Redefining Retirement Success: The guests share their personal definitions of success, focusing on a "next chapter" filled with meaning rather than a total cessation of work.
What happens when parenting regret doesn't go away… it just evolves?In this episode, Erika is joined by fellow childfree girlie Abby Porter (aka z00mie, aka “the girl with the list”) to unpack a brand-new post from a parent whose regret has shifted from newborn exhaustion to something much heavier: existential anxiety, fear about the future, and the pressure of shaping a child's entire life.We discuss: • Why regret can become more philosophical as kids grow• The crushing pressure parents feel to “not mess up” their children• Anxiety about AI, social media, and the modern world kids are growing up in• The myth that motherhood comes naturally• Why some people realize the realities of parenting too late• How comparison culture and mommy influencers make parenting harder• Whether thinking deeply about parenthood BEFORE kids could prevent regretTIMESTAMPS00:00 Intro + Meet Abby Porter01:00 How parenting regret changes over time03:00 Fear of traumatizing your kids (even if you're a good parent)05:00 Generational patterns, anxiety, and breaking cycles07:00 Parenting anxiety about the future, AI, and safety09:00 “Philosophical garbage” — unpacking that take12:00 When motherhood isn't what you expected14:00 The myth that parenting comes naturally16:00 Social media, mommy influencers, and comparison18:00 Kids, screens, and the “iPad generation”21:00 Therapist advice: stop spiraling or think deeper?23:00 Why these conversations matter BEFORE having kids24:50 Comment reactions + final thoughtsFOLLOW ABBY PORTERYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@z00mie TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@z00mieInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/z00mi.e/ MORE FROM USWebsite: https://www.dinkypod.com/ Patreon: https://patreon.com/dinkypod regretful parents podcast, parenting regret discussion, motherhood reality, childfree podcast, parenting mental health, motherhood expectations, modern parenting struggles, should I have kids, honest parenting talk, parenting anxiety, raising kids today, social media parenting pressure, AI future kidsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support.
In this episode, Erika and Kristen read and react to a viral post from Reddit about a parent struggling with a chronically unhappy, clingy, sleep-hating four-year-old — and the toll it's taking on her mental health.From colicky babies to nonstop whining, sleep deprivation, and the reality of parenting advice that doesn't always help, this conversation dives into the messy truth behind “it gets better.” Along the way, the hosts share personal stories, debate nature vs. nurture, question whether some kids are just born grumpy, and wonder if one tiny old-soul child simply belongs on a bench in New York complaining about life.They also discuss:What chronic sleep deprivation does to parentsWhy some kids always seem happier The pressure to follow perfect parenting adviceWhy “just take them somewhere fun” isn't always helpfulWhether kids actually enjoy things like trips to London or seeing Big Ben (apparently not
Who makes decisions for you when you can't? For Childfree people, the answer has never been straightforward. Dr. Jay Zigmont sits down with Robert Allan and John Steiner from Welon Trust to reveal how they spent two and a half years building something that didn't exist: a trust company designed specifically for the Childfree community.This episode pulls back the curtain on creating Childfree Trust®. From a 752-page application to navigating banking regulators who'd never seen this model, John and Robert share why every other trust company said no, the social bias they faced raising capital, and how they're building a system that has to outlive everyone involved. If you've ever wondered what it takes to create something entirely new in a 200-year-old industry, this conversation delivers the unfiltered truth.Key Takeaways:Traditional trust companies refused to serve Childfree clients: Every company demanded $10,000-$20,000 annual minimums and wouldn't touch medical power of attorney. They just don't want to do it.Banking oversight protects like the FDIC: If Welon fails, regulators step in seamlessly—the document doesn't die, the company may. To clients it looks like nothing happened.Building to outlive the founders: This company has to bury Dr. Jay, John, and Robert. They're creating documented processes that ensure continuity for decades.Social bias against Childfree investing: One investor loved Childfree Trust® but couldn't invest because "they can't go to church and say they invested in a Childfree company." Robert: "There's a market that needs to be served."Episode Host:Dr. Jay Zigmont, CFP® - Founder & CEO of Childfree Wealth®, Childfree Trust®, & Childfree Insights. Board member and investor in Welon Trust. Jay spent two and a half years partnering with John and Robert to create the first trust company designed specifically for the Childfree community.Meet the Guests:John Steiner, CFA® - a Founding Member and Managing Director of Welon Trust. He brings more than 35 years of investment management expertise to the firm working with both individuals and institutions. Robert Allan, CFP®, CFA®, CPA - a Founding Member and Managing Director of Welon Trust. With over a decade of financial, operational, and accounting experience, he brings a unique perspective that allows him to provide value to his client's beyond managing their portfolio.Learn more about Welon Trust: https://welon.comAbout Childfree InsightsChildfree Insights delivers education for financial and estate planning without children. It supports people with no kids in making informed decisions about retirement, legacy planning, beneficiaries, and long-term care. Home of Childfree Wealth® and Childfree Trust®.Connect with Us: Ready to work on building better financial habits? Connect with our financial planning team at childfreewealth.com or learn more about estate planning at childfreetrust.com. Follow Childfree Life by Design on your favorite podcast platform and join the conversation on social media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/childfreeinsightsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChildfreeInsights/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/childfreeinsightsYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ChildfreeInsights Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational & entertainment purposes. Please consult your advisor before implementing any ideas heard on this podcast.
In this episode, Dr. Jay Zigmont returns to the podcast to discuss the unique future planning needs of childfree individuals. He and Keltie chat about: The importance of having proper medical and financial directives and the necessity of a support team. The paperwork and planning documents every childfree person should have in place. Why relying on a family member to help you manage future estate and health concerns is usually a bad idea. The special considerations for estate planning that cater to those without kids. Legacy planning and the impact childfree individuals can make in their lives and communities. (0:22) Meet Dr. Jay and his project Childfree Trust (11:31) Estate & medical emergency planning for childfree people (24:34) Special challenges in documents for childfree people (29:10) How to think about aging as a childfree individual As mentioned in the show: Hear Jay's first appearance on the podcast in Episode 24: kidsorchildfree.com/podcast/episode/219886a3/24-dr-jay-zigmont-cfp-on-childfree-wealth-and-legacy Find Dr. Jay on Instagram: instagram.com/childfreewealth/ On LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/childfree-wealth/ Find out more about Dr. Jay and Childfree Trust at childfreetrust.com Join our upcoming Confidently Childfree Support Session with Dr. Jay (happening on May 11th) here: https://www.kidsorchildfree.com/confidently-childfree-support-series About Dr. Jay: Dr. Jay Zigmont is on a mission to help people without kids live their best lives, with the plan and finances to support it. He's a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® and Childfree Wealth Specialist® with Childfree Wealth®. In short, he's the go-to expert on navigating the financial road less traveled for people without kids. He's the author of The Childfree Guide to Life and Money and a cohost of the Childfree Life by Design podcast, where he drops expert knowledge with a dose of humor. Dr. Jay is a frequent contributor to top-tier media outlets, including Forbes, C-Span TheStreet, and the Wall Street Journal. __ MORE HELP FOR YOUR KIDS OR CHILDFREE DECISION Start Here: sign up for an upcoming WORKSHOP
This week on Claiming Zero, I'm reading and reacting to two very honest Reddit threads — one from the Reddit community r/regretfulparents and the other from r/childfree.In the first post, parents were asked: “Are you envious of your childfree by choice friends?" And they did not hold back. Commenters talked about:Watching childfree friends travel freelyHaving disposable incomeBeing able to focus on their relationships moreHaving time, autonomy, and flexibility and so much moreThen I flipped the script. In the child-free thread, someone asked: “Does anyone regret not having kids?” Some people admitted fears around:Being ostracized by familyThe fear of loneliness later in lifeNot having someone who depends on you and moreThis episode isn't about who made the “right” choice.It's about honesty. What do people actually say when they feel safe enough to tell the truth? And what can we learn when we listen without defensiveness?Support the showEmail: claimingzeropodcast@gmail.comIG/FB: @claimingzero
Welcome back to the Recover with Carly Podcast! This week I sat down with Alicia Mccarvell - an east coast Canadian plus size content creator, auntie, & a comfort creator to so many (myself included, of course). Throughout our conversation, Alicia opens up about her journey to becoming a content creator, the reason she shows up online, being in a "mixed-value" relationship, choosing to be childfree, and the impact being an auntie has had on her. Alicia is someone who has inspired me for many years and I'm so thankful to have sat down with her to talk about so many important and relatable topics. Alicia and I have realized we have so much in common - both married to our high school sweethearts, have chosen to be childfree, and both take our roles at aunties very seriously. I'm thankful to have someone like Alicia to relate to and to be able to share her knowledge and words of wisdom with you all. You can follow Alicia on Instagram and TikTok and Youtube. You can also stay up to date on all things Recover with Carly Podcast on Instagram and feel free to follow my personal account, @recoverwithcarly for more resources. If this episode resonates with you, please leave a rating + review! Also, feel free to share today's episode or any other episode with friends and family. Your support means the world to me.
******Support the channel******Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thedissenterPayPal: paypal.me/thedissenterPayPal Subscription 1 Dollar: https://tinyurl.com/yb3acuuyPayPal Subscription 3 Dollars: https://tinyurl.com/ybn6bg9lPayPal Subscription 5 Dollars: https://tinyurl.com/ycmr9gpzPayPal Subscription 10 Dollars: https://tinyurl.com/y9r3fc9mPayPal Subscription 20 Dollars: https://tinyurl.com/y95uvkao ******Follow me on******Website: https://www.thedissenter.net/The Dissenter Goodreads list: https://shorturl.at/7BMoBFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/thedissenteryt/Twitter: https://x.com/TheDissenterYT This show is sponsored by Enlites, Learning & Development done differently. Check the website here: http://enlites.com/ Laura Carroll is a nonfiction author, expert on the childfree choice and pronatalism, and a passionate reproductive rights and ethics advocate. She is the author of The Baby Matrix: Why Freeing Our Minds From Outmoded Thinking About Parenthood & Reproduction Will Create a Better World. In this episode, we talk about childfree choices and pronatalism. We first get into what it is to be childfree, why people morally condemn childfree choices, whether most people without children are “childless by circumstance”, whether people with children are happier, whether we have evolved to want children, and whether people want large families. We also discuss whether we are headed toward “population collapse”, whether aging populations need more babies, the link between pronatalism and eugenics, and whether pronatalism is a threat to women's reproductive rights.--A HUGE THANK YOU TO MY PATRONS/SUPPORTERS: PER HELGE LARSEN, JERRY MULLER, BERNARDO SEIXAS, ADAM KESSEL, MATTHEW WHITINGBIRD, ARNAUD WOLFF, TIM HOLLOSY, HENRIK AHLENIUS, ROBERT WINDHAGER, RUI INACIO, ZOOP, MARCO NEVES, COLIN HOLBROOK, PHIL KAVANAGH, SAMUEL ANDREEFF, FRANCIS FORDE, TIAGO NUNES, FERGAL CUSSEN, HAL HERZOG, NUNO MACHADO, JONATHAN LEIBRANT, JOÃO LINHARES, STANTON T, SAMUEL CORREA, ERIK HAINES, MARK SMITH, JOÃO EIRA, TOM HUMMEL, SARDUS FRANCE, DAVID SLOAN WILSON, YACILA DEZA-ARAUJO, ROMAIN ROCH, YANICK PUNTER, CHARLOTTE BLEASE, NICOLE BARBARO, ADAM HUNT, PAWEL OSTASZEWSKI, NELLEKE BAK, GUY MADISON, GARY G HELLMANN, SAIMA AFZAL, ADRIAN JAEGGI, PAULO TOLENTINO, JOÃO BARBOSA, JULIAN PRICE, HEDIN BRØNNER, FRANCA BORTOLOTTI, GABRIEL PONS CORTÈS, URSULA LITZCKE, SCOTT, ZACHARY FISH, TIM DUFFY, SUNNY SMITH, JON WISMAN, WILLIAM BUCKNER, LUKE GLOWACKI, GEORGIOS THEOPHANOUS, CHRIS WILLIAMSON, PETER WOLOSZYN, DAVID WILLIAMS, DIOGO COSTA, ALEX CHAU, CORALIE CHEVALLIER, BANGALORE ATHEISTS, LARRY D. LEE JR., OLD HERRINGBONE, MICHAEL BAILEY, DAN SPERBER, ROBERT GRESSIS, JEFF MCMAHAN, JAKE ZUEHL, MARK CAMPBELL, TOMAS DAUBNER, LUKE NISSEN, KIMBERLY JOHNSON, JESSICA NOWICKI, LINDA BRANDIN, VALENTIN STEINMANN, ALEXANDER HUBBARD, BR, JONAS HERTNER, URSULA GOODENOUGH, DAVID PINSOF, SEAN NELSON, MIKE LAVIGNE, JOS KNECHT, LUCY, MANVIR SINGH, PETRA WEIMANN, CAROLA FEEST, MAURO JÚNIOR, 航 豊川, TONY BARRETT, NIKOLAI VISHNEVSKY, STEVEN GANGESTAD, TED FARRIS, HUGO B., JAMES, JORDAN MANSFIELD, CHARLOTTE ALLEN, PETER STOYKO, DAVID TONNER, LEE BECK, PATRICK DALTON-HOLMES, NICK KRASNEY, RACHEL ZAK, DENNIS XAVIER, CHINMAYA BHAT, AND RHYS!A SPECIAL THANKS TO MY PRODUCERS, YZAR WEHBE, JIM FRANK, ŁUKASZ STAFINIAK, TOM VANEGDOM, BERNARD HUGUENEY, CURTIS DIXON, BENEDIKT MUELLER, THOMAS TRUMBLE, KATHRINE AND PATRICK TOBIN, JONCARLO MONTENEGRO, NICK GOLDEN, CHRISTINE GLASS, IGOR NIKIFOROVSKI, AND PER KRAULIS!AND TO MY EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS, MATTHEW LAVENDER,SERGIU CODREANU, AND GREGORY HASTINGS!
⚠️ Content Warning: Discussions of parental resentment, mental health crises, and implied threats of violence.In this episode, Erika and Kristen dive a viral Reddit post from an Australian father overwhelmed by parenting two ADHD children with an ADHD spouse. What starts as complaints about mess, noise, and burnout spirals into resentment, misogyny, and an alarming confession.As two hosts with ADHD, we unpack the realities of living with ADHD and why so many parents seem shocked by… having to parent??? Along the way, we discuss weaponized incompetence, emotional labor, mental health stigma, ADHD medication debates, and why therapy is not optional when resentment turns dangerous.Learn more about Dinky: https://www.dinkypod.com Support the show on Patreon for bonus content: https://patreon.com/dinkypodAnd until next time…Don't get pregnant.
What happens to your pets if you're suddenly unable to care for them? For Childfree people with animal companions, this isn't just about planning for after you're gone. It's about having a solid plan for emergencies, temporary disability, and ensuring your pets get the care they need when you can't provide it.Bri Conn, CFP® and Dr. Jay Zigmont, CFP® tackle pet protection planning, from 155-pound English Mastiffs with special dietary needs to orange cats with attitude problems. They break down the difference between temporary care (you're in the hospital for three days) and permanent arrangements (you pass away), the legal reality that pets are considered property, how pet trusts work differently than wills, and Childfree Trust®'s 24/7 emergency response system that activates care plans the moment someone is hospitalized.Key Takeaways:Temporary vs permanent care requires different plans: Emergency disability needs immediate pet care with existing sitters or facilities. Permanent arrangements require identifying long-term guardians willing to take animals with special needs, plus backup options like specialized shelters.Pet trusts protect animals beyond wills: Pet trusts ensure trustees oversee that guardians actually spend funds on your pet's benefit.Care documents enable emergency response: Document feeding schedules, medical conditions, allergies, medications, veterinarian contacts, and house access information so caregivers know exactly what your pet needs.The 3 C's framework: Caretaker, Communication, Critical information: Who takes responsibility, how they're reached in emergencies, and everything they need to know about food, medicine, behavior, and routines.Professional support fills the family gap: Childfree Trust®'s 24/7 emergency response activates care plans immediately when clients are hospitalized.Mentioned in this episode:Protecting pets emergency checklist - Download it hereStart your estate planning here - www.ChildfreeTrust.comEpisode Hosts:Bri Conn, CFP® - Customer Experience Manager at Childfree Trust®. Bri has multiple backup caretakers lined up for her dog and maintains a detailed "doggy resume" with all care information readily accessibleDr. Jay Zigmont, CFP® - Founder & CEO of Childfree Wealth®, Childfree Trust®, & Childfree Insights. Jay's 155-pound English Mastiff has extensive special needs and a precise 5:00 PM dinner schedule, making detailed care planning essential.About Childfree InsightsChildfree Insights is the trusted education hub for people who are Childfree or permanently childless. It provides guidance on finances, estate planning, relationships, and life decisions for adults without children. Home of Childfree Wealth and Childfree Trust, supporting long-term planning for people living without kids.Connect with Us:Ready to design your ideal Childfree life? Connect with our financial planning team at childfreewealth.com or learn more about estate planning at childfreetrust.comJoin the conversation on social media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/childfreeinsightsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChildfreeInsights/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/childfreeinsightsYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ChildfreeInsightsDisclaimer: This podcast is for educational & entertainment purposes. Please consult your advisor before i
Would you ever let a stranger stay in your house like Jess? Did Charlotte cut her needy friend off? Does Kramer finally need to settle?
Want more exclusive content from Dinky? Join the Patreon! Today, we're talking about Project 2026. Two years ago, we covered everything you needed to know about Project 2025, the dystopian right-wing plan from the Heritage Foundation that was largely considered the blueprint for the Trump administration's first year back in office. But the Heritage Foundation didn't stop there — no, their nightmare for America knows no bounds. So today, we're unpacking everything you need to know about Project 2026, their new plans for chaos and destruction. SOURCES:Project 2025 architects lay out 2026 policy visionHow much of Project 2025 has actually been accomplished this year?TRIPS:Artsy Adventure In Vietnam With ErikaLavender Dreams & Riviera Nights With ErikaGET MORE FROM DINKY:Treat yourself to new merch! Wanna get your finances in order? Use our link to sign up for a FREE 34 day trial of YNAB (You Need A Budget) and support the show. Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Substack, Instagram, TikTok, and Threads at @dinkypod. Follow us on YouTube.If you have a question or comment, email us at dinky@dinkypod.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support.
What if choosing not to have children didn't limit your love—but actually saved it?In this personal episode of Claiming Zero, I share the real, unfiltered story of my 20- year journey with my partner, Devin. From meeting at 13 years old, to being friends with benefits in our twenties, to officially choosing each other years later—our relationship has not been linear, easy, or perfect.We've experienced breakups, reconnections, hard conversations, therapy, healing, and deep personal growth. And one truth has become crystal clear: being child-free gave us the space to do that work.This episode isn't about bashing parenthood. It's about honoring a path that allowed two imperfect people the time, energy, and emotional bandwidth to heal themselves and each other.If you're child-free, on the fence, or wondering whether choosing yourself and your relationship is “enough”—this conversation is for you.Support the showEmail: claimingzeropodcast@gmail.comIG/FB: @claimingzero
The UNFPA has warned that world fertility rates are facing an 'unprecedented decline'. In its 2025 report, it said many people are having fewer children than they want, or none at all, because of factors like the cost of living and difficulties finding a suitable partner.At the same time, a growing number of people are actively choosing a child-free life, and more women are now opting for sterilisation procedures like tubal ligation. Focus on Africa podcast host, Nkechi Ogbonna, spoke to 29-year-old Naisula Sironka, from Kenya, who has chosen to be child-free and underwent tubal ligation in 2024.Presenter: Nkechi Ogbonna Producers: Fana Negash and Carolyne Kiambo Technical Producer: David Nzau Senior Producer: Priya Sippy Editors: Samuel Murunga and Maryam Abdalla
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⚠️Content Warning: This episode discusses disability, regret, resentment, and medical trauma. Listener discretion advised.In this episode, Kristen and Erika dive into a post titled “I dislike my disabled child and I am ashamed.”Pulled straight from Facebook — where it racked up over 5,000 likes — this anonymous post opens up an uncomfortable conversation about parenthood, disability, genetic testing, medical gaslighting, caregiver burnout, and the realities no one prepares parents for.We react in real time to a mother describing life after learning her child will be profoundly disabled, require 24/7 lifelong care, and never be independent. From missed genetic diagnoses and a lawsuit, to rage, grief, resentment, and shame — this episode tackles the things parents aren't allowed to say out loud.We also unpack:Medical gaslighting of women by doctorsSociety's obsession with “perfect motherhood”How people are brutally cruel to regretful parents onlineThe myth that “everything will work out” If you're childfree, on the fence, or questioning the fantasy version of parenthood society sells us, this episode is for you.More episodes, tours, and unfiltered chaos: DinkyPod.comJoin our childfree community: patreon.com/dinkypodTake a trip with us: https://trovatrip.com/host/profiles/dinky-wxarg Learn more about our podcast: dinkypod.com Love ya. Don't get pregnant.
Who will make decisions for you when you can't? For Childfree people, that question has never had a good answer until now.In this episode, Maddy Roche and Dr. Jay Zigmont, CFP® introduce Childfree Trust®, the first nationwide professional fiduciary solution designed specifically for Childfree individuals. After three and a half years of research and development, Childfree Trust® solves a problem that's plagued the Childfree community: who will act as your medical power of attorney, financial power of attorney, executor, and trustee when you don't have the traditional next of kin most estate planning assumes you have?Jay and Maddy break down the four crucial estate planning roles every person needs to fill, what really happens if you don't have these documents in place, and why relying solely on friends and family can put everyone in a difficult position. Key Takeaways:Estate planning is about decisions while you're alive: The four critical roles, medical power of attorney, financial power of attorney, executor, and trustee, ensure someone can make decisions on your behalf during emergencies, cognitive decline, or after death. Childfree Trust® is the first nationwide professional fiduciary solution: Acting in all 50 states & DC, Childfree Trust® can serve as your medical power of attorney, financial power of attorney, executor, or trustee. Professional fiduciaries protect everyone involved: Even if you have someone willing to serve in estate planning roles, appointing Childfree Trust® as a backup gives your loved ones an out if circumstances become too challenging. Guarantees ensure lifelong protection: If you've been a client for 24 consecutive months and go on Medicaid, Childfree Trust® will continue making decisions on your behalf without billing you. Your decisions are protected even if you run out of assets.Episode Hosts:Maddy Roche - Chief Growth Officer at Childfree Trust® and responsible for all sales & marketing initiatives.Dr. Jay Zigmont, CFP® - Founder & CEO of Childfree Wealth®, Childfree Trust®, & Childfree Insights. After spending three and a half years researching estate planning solutions for Childfree people, Jay created Childfree Trust® to solve a problem no one else would address.
Sarah Ferguson's charity, Sarah's Trust, has announced it will close "for the foreseeable future" after new details emerged from documents released by the US Department of Justice about the former Duchess of York's friendship with the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. A spokesman for the foundation said the decision comes after "some months" of discussion. BBC News Correspondent Ellie Price and Dr Andrew Lownie, author of Entitled: The Rise and Fall of the House of York, join Nuala McGovern.We hear from BAFTA Breakthrough British actress & comedian Susan Wokoma. Best known for playing Edith in the Enola Holmes films and her tv roles in Chewing Gum, and Cheaters, she's just written a brand new 'baroque and roll' musical for the National Youth Theatre as part of their 70th anniversary celebrations. There are renewed calls for better public education on the UK's complex legal system to help ensure potential victims, particularly women, have a clearer understanding of how it works. Family law barrister Samantha Singer joins Nuala to discuss her online platform designed to empower those facing legal challenges, alongside Jo Silver from the charity Safe Lives.We hear a lot about ‘mum guilt', but what about the guilt that can come along with not becoming a mother? Writer Ellen C Scott is child-free by choice but has recently experienced guilt towards her parents because she won't be providing them with grandchildren. She recently explored the topic for Stylist magazine and was surprised by how much it resonated with other women. Ellen and psychotherapist Professor Hannah Sherbersky discuss how to navigate these feelings.Presenter: Nuala McGovern Producer: Kirsty Starkey
In today's episode of Claiming Zero, I sit down with a dear friend, author, speaker, ministry leader, and founder of a nonprofit serving foster youth, to talk honestly about faith, waiting, and purpose. She once believed she'd be a mom by now. She was married. She hoped. She waited. And then life took an unexpected turn.Now in her thirties, single, and deeply rooted in her faith, she shares what it looks like to live a full, meaningful, God-centered life even when the season you prayed for hasn't arrived yet.We talk about:Holding space for the desire to be a mother without letting it define your worth.Grieving a timeline you thought God promisedFinding purpose, joy, and calling outside of marriage and motherhood.What Scripture says about waiting—and what it doesn't.How serving, leading, and loving others doesn't require biological children.This episode is for women who are childfree by circumstance, who would like to be a mom one day, and are learning to trust God with the timing—without putting their lives on pause. We see you! Support the showEmail: claimingzeropodcast@gmail.comIG/FB: @claimingzero
Reddit Stories - OP, a 27-year-old childcare worker unable to have kids, tells her mom-friend group she wants a child-free holiday. After refusing to babysit their kids again, they accuse her of being selfish and dramatic.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/lost-genre-reddit-stories--5779056/support.
The French state railway company has introduced child-free carriages on some of its journeys, but transport isn't the only area being affected by the child-free phenomenon. There's also been a rise in weddings without children. Head of Brand at the wedding planning app, Bridebook, Zoe Burke chats through some of the stories she's come across and the polling she's done.
Reddit Stories - OP reconnects with his ex, the woman he once loved but lost because she wanted kids and he didn't. Now she says she's fine being child-free, but OP fears history—and heartbreak—might repeat itself.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/lost-genre-reddit-stories--5779056/support.
The Childfree Life By Design team just got back from CES in Las Vegas, and they're sharing everything: the coolest tech, the weirdest products, and what it's really like to run a booth at the world's biggest consumer electronics show.From hip airbags and remote dementia diagnosis tools to robot dogs and AI-powered picture frames that clone voices, this episode covers it all. The team also reflects on community connections, including a special dinner with Childfree community members, and what they learned about the growing interest in Childfree resources from around the world.Key Takeaways:Age tech is having a moment. Hip airbags, remote dementia diagnosis, subtitle glasses for hearing impairment, and exoskeletons for everyday use signal a shift toward technology that supports aging well.The Childfree mission resonates globally. International attendees and even parents expressed genuine interest in Childfree resources, confirming the team is on the right track.Community connection matters. The team dinner with Childfree community members was a highlight, reinforcing the value of gathering with people who just get it.Focus on the people who get it. Rather than convincing skeptics, spend energy on the millions who already understand and want to engage.Resources Mentioned: Tech Crunch Article: https://techcrunch.com/snippet/3081558/childfree-trust-was-one-of-the-sleeper-surprises-at-ces-unveiled/ Episode Hosts:Dr. Jay Zigmont, CFP® - Founder & CEO of Childfree Wealth®, Childfree Trust®, & Childfree Insights. Author of "The Childfree Guide to Life and Money."Bri Conn, CFP® - Customer Experience Manager at Childfree Trust® and co-host. Bri joined the Childfree space after connecting with Dr. Jay while studying to become a CFP® professional.Scott Barnes, CFP®, TPCP®, CLTC - Associate Advisor at Childfree Wealth®. Scott is the go-to expert for long-term care strategies and tax planning questions.Maddy Roche - Chief Growth Officer at Childfree Trust® and responsible for all sales & marketing initiatives.Alli Gage - Chief of Staff at Childfree Insights. Alli is the behind-the-scenes coordinator who ensures all organizations operate in an orderly fashion across the board.About Childfree Life by Design: Childfree Life By Design is dedicated to helping Childfree individuals thrive by providing resources, guidance, and community. We recognize that when you've made a decision roughly 75% of the population doesn't make, conventional wisdom simply doesn't apply to you. Our mission is to help you design a life that works for you, covering everything from finances and relationships to career decisions and building support networks that will actually be there when you need them. Connect with Us: Ready to design your ideal Childfree life? Connect with our financial planning team at childfreewealth.com or learn more about estate planning at childfreetrust.com Join the conversation on social media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/childfreeinsightsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChildfreeInsights/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/childfreeinsightsYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ChildfreeInsights Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational & entertainment purposes. Please consult your advisor before implementing any ideas heard on this podcast...
Should we have more child-free spaces? The French state railway company has introduced child-free carriages on some of its high-speed trains. This has caused a row online. Adam Fleming gets to the bottom of the story and asks if there is a growing demand for more child-free spaces. But is the debate simply a measure of growing intolerance - particularly of children - in society.Presenter: Adam Fleming Producers: Natasha Fernandes, Tom Gillett, John Murphy Studio manager: Andrew Mills Production co-ordinator: Gemma Ashman Series Editor: Penny Murphy
What do you want the second line of your obituary to say? For most people, it reads "father of three" or "survived by spouse and children." For Childfree people, that line looks different. This episode tackles the identity crisis that comes when your career defines you and you're facing a major transition without the traditional markers of legacy.Dr. Jay Zigmont, CFP® sits down with Drew Blickensderfer, two-time Daytona 500-winning crew chief and current Competition Director at Front Row Motor Sports, to discuss his transition from crew chief to leadership after nearly 20 years at NASCAR's highest level. This conversation reveals how Childfree people can create legacy through leadership, not lineage.Key Takeaways:The obituary question reframes identity: What do you want the second line of your obituary to say? Legacy through leadership, not lineage: Childfree people build impact through mentoring, developing talent, and doing the morally right thing for others' careers. Being Childfree enabled career longevity: Crew chiefs rarely last 19 years. No children meant Drew could travel 36-38 weeks per year, miss no little league games, and pursue his dream longer than peers with family obligations.Platinum rule over golden rule: Treating people how you want to be treated fails with different generations and learning styles.Small wins sustain teams through adversity: When winning seems impossible (35 losers every NASCAR race), celebrate incremental progress. Episode Host:Dr. Jay Zigmont, CFP® - Founder & CEO of Childfree Wealth®, Childfree Trust®, & Childfree Insights. Jay embedded with Drew's NASCAR team for a year to research leadership and legacy for Childfree individuals, creating what he calls his "secret project" exploring how people build impact without traditional lineage.Meet the Guest:Drew Blickensderfer - Competition Director at Front Row Motor Sports. Two-time Daytona 500-winning crew chief with 19 years in NASCAR. Drew transitioned from crew chief (NASCAR's "head coach") to competition director, managing multiple teams instead of one. Being Childfree allowed him to travel constantly and stay in his role longer than most, while now entering an encore career with better work-life balance.About Childfree Life by Design: Childfree Life By Design is dedicated to helping Childfree individuals thrive by providing resources, guidance, and community. We recognize that when you've made a decision roughly 75% of the population doesn't make, conventional wisdom simply doesn't apply to you. Our mission is to help you design a life that works for you, covering everything from finances and relationships to career decisions and building support networks that will actually be there when you need them. Connect with Us: Ready to design your ideal Childfree life? Connect with our financial planning team at childfreewealth.com or learn more about estate planning at childfreetrust.com Join the conversation on social media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/childfreeinsightsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChildfreeInsights/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/childfreeinsightsYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ChildfreeInsights Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational & entertainment purposes. Please consult your advisor before implementing any ideas heard on this podcast...
France's new child-free train carriages divide opinion.France's state train operator SNCF rolled out a new carriage on its high-speed trains which provides a ‘quiet journey that's ideal for working or relaxing', the reason it's quiet- there's no children allowed. To discuss whether its an idea we should consider in Ireland Tara Duggan in for Andrea was joined by Comedian Jim Elliot, Katie Makk from the Opinion Matter Podcast and Tina in Wicklow.
Childfree or Childless? You Get to Decide What That Means If you don't have kids, you've probably noticed the words childfree and childless everywhere. They show up on social media, in podcasts, in articles, in movies, and in conversations about women's lives after infertility. And even if no one has ever asked you directly how you identify, you've likely felt something when you hear those terms used. Maybe you pause. Maybe you feel tension. Maybe you think, I don't know how I feel about that. In this episode of The "So Now What?" Podcast, you slow that moment down and look at what's really happening underneath the words. This conversation is not about choosing the "right" label. It is about understanding the meaning you are giving to the terms childfree and childless, and deciding whether that meaning actually supports the woman you are becoming after infertility or IVF did not result in a child. You explore why identity feels so tender after fertility treatments end, why language can feel so loaded, and how a single word can start to feel like it is being asked to explain your grief, your growth, your peace, and your future all at once. In this episode, you will hear: Why the term childfree can feel empowering for some women and completely misaligned for others. Why the word childless can feel truthful while still carrying old stories of disappointment or being perceived as less than. How some women reclaim their lives without kids by changing the word they use. How other women reclaim their lives without kids by keeping the same word and changing what it means to them. Why you are not reacting to the word itself, but to the meaning you believe the word gives you. How you get to decide how much power any label has over you. You will also hear Lana share why she personally identifies as childless, and how that word honors the truth of wanting motherhood while still reflecting a full, meaningful life without children. Most importantly, this episode reminds you that whether you identify as childfree or childless, you have permission to feel proud of the woman you are. Proud of how you kept going. Proud of how you learned to hold complexity. Proud of the life you are building, even if it looks different than you once imagined. You are not your terminology. You are not unfinished. You are not behind. You are not less than. You are whole. Links and Resources Mentioned in This Episode The Other's Day® Brunch A beautiful, connective event for women without children, happening May 9, with a special Friday night experience added this year. Check for updates or join the waitlist here:
Welcome back to the Regretful Parents series. This episode tackles what motherhood does to women's bodies, mental health, and sense of self.Erika and Kristen read a post from the Regretful Parents subreddit titled “Never Felt as Ugly as I Do Now as a Mom.”A woman reflects on how pregnancy, postpartum life, chronic sleep deprivation, stress, and mental load have aged her physically and emotionally — and how devastating it feels to no longer recognize herself in the mirror. From "saggy apron bellies to lifeless eyes", celebrity “bounce-back” culture, Botox discourse, and why men somehow escape all of this entirely, the conversation spirals (as it should) into a full-blown rant about how cruel, unfair, and deeply misogynistic the expectations placed on mothers really are.Topics include:Postpartum body changes no one warns you aboutWhy stress and sleep deprivation visibly age womenThe lie of “bouncing back” after pregnancyCelebrity beauty standards are fully rage-inducingWhy motherhood drains women and barely touches menAnd the eternal question: why do we keep doing this to ourselves?Support us on patreon.com/dinkypod so we can kill ads foreverFind childfree friends, connect with other fence-sitters, and join our next trip at dinkypod.com.And as always: don't get pregnant.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support.
Who's on your bench? When you're building a Childfree life on your own terms, the professionals and teammates you surround yourself with make all the difference in how well you age.In this episode, Maddy Roche and Bri Conn, CFP®, walk through the essential people you need in your corner, from certified financial planners who understand Childfree planning to aging care managers who can help you navigate long-term care. They tackle why estate planning is more complex when you don't have a next generation to handle decisions, how Childfree Trust® provides a professional fiduciary solution, and why outsourcing the right things frees you to focus on what matters most.Key Takeaways:CFP® professionals are fiduciaries legally obligated to act in your best interest, and finding one who understands how being Childfree fundamentally changes your financial picture ensures you get advice that actually fits your goals.Medical power of attorney, financial power of attorney, executor, and trustee are essential positions that take time to fill, especially when you don't have a next generation to rely on.Childfree Trust® provides a professional fiduciary solution. Acting in all 50 states as any of the four key estate planning roles, Childfree Trust® can serve as your primary choice or backup option, giving your existing representatives the gift of being able to transfer responsibility if needed.Whether it's tax preparation, home maintenance, or health management, identifying what you can delegate to professionals frees you to spend time with people and activities you actually care about.Primary care doctors, aging care managers, personal trainers, and community leaders all play a role in preventing issues before they arise and ensuring you have advocates when you need them.Episode Hosts:Maddy Roche - Chief Growth Officer at Childfree Trust® and responsible for all sales & marketing initiatives.Bri Conn, CFP® - Customer Experience Manager at Childfree Trust® and co-host. Bri understands firsthand that the CFP® curriculum doesn't address Childfree planning.About Childfree Life by Design: Childfree Life By Design is dedicated to helping Childfree individuals thrive by providing resources, guidance, and community. We recognize that when you've made a decision roughly 75% of the population doesn't make, conventional wisdom simply doesn't apply to you. Our mission is to help you design a life that works for you, covering everything from finances and relationships to career decisions and building support networks that will actually be there when you need them. Connect with Us: Ready to design your ideal Childfree life? Connect with our financial planning team at childfreewealth.com or learn more about estate planning at childfreetrust.com Join the conversation on social media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/childfreeinsightsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChildfreeInsights/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/childfreeinsightsYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ChildfreeInsights Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational & entertainment purposes. Please consult your advisor before implementing any ideas heard on this podcast...
Keltie is speaking with childfree trailblazer, Marcia Drut-Davis, about the ups and downs of her life without children. They discuss... Marcia's public "coming out" of her childfree choice on national tv in 1974 — and the backlash that came with it. The stigma surrounding the childfree choice and the emotional toll it can take on those who choose it. Marcia's friendships with moms — and what has been key to these relationships surviving the different seasons of parenthood. The importance of young people in her life — and how you can cultivate intergenerational relationships. The profound beauty that can be found in life's simple, and seemingly insignificant moments, and how these can be a source of immense joy. As mentioned in the show Find Marcia on Instagram at instagram.com/childfree_guru/ Read Marcia's two books: Confessions of a Childfree Woman and What?! You Don't Want Children? About Marcia Marcia Drut-Davis is an American author, speaker, and longtime pioneer of the childfree-by-choice movement who first gained national attention in 1974 when she publicly explained on 60 Minutes why she and her then-husband didn't want children, a decision that cost her teaching job and led to intense backlash. She went on to lead the first chapter of the National Organization for Non-Parents, write influential books including Confessions of a Childfree Woman and What?! You Don't Want Children?, and help normalize childfree lifestyles. In recognition of her impact, she received a Lifetime Childfree Contribution Award and continues to be celebrated as a mentor and advocate for choice and acceptance of voluntary non-parenthood. __ Book your Clarity Booster here: kidsorchildfree.com/claritybooster Check out our free resources here, or at kidsorchildfree.com/free-resources And don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review The Kids or Childfree Podcast if you love what you're hearing! You can leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, or a rating on Spotify. Find us online at www.kidsorchildfree.com. Instagram: www.instagram.com/kidsorchildfree TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@kidsorchildfree
In this episode of Claiming Zero we are headed back to the r/AITAH channel for a post that sparked intense reactions about parenting, divorce, and child-free relationships.An ex-wife, 2 kiddos, a childfree woman and a man stuck in the middle. When his family jumps in with assumptions, accusations, and a whole lot of feelings he turns to reddit for clarity. Why is it so wrong for him to want a new relationship with a woman who doesn't want children?How does he handle the conversation with his kids? Join me as I unpack all of this and more!Support the showEmail: claimingzeropodcast@gmail.comIG/FB: @claimingzero
In this episode, Kristen and Erika dive into a wild Reddit post from a working mom dealing with a stay-at-home husband who refuses to actually parent their 28-month-old (that's 2 years and 4 months, people!).What We Cover:A stay-at-home dad who won't take his toddler to the playground, feed her, or play with herWhy OP hired a house cleaner because he couldn't handle the basicsThe depression and isolation that can come with being a full-time parentWhy men often aren't equipped to handle what women do every dayThe importance of community and adult friendships for stay-at-home parentsOur thoughts on why this relationship is doomedGET MORE: Instagram & TikTok: @dinkypodJoin our community: Find childfree friends, connect with other fence-sitters, and join our next trip at dinkypod.com.Key Moments:The math rant about calling kids "28 months old" instead of just saying their age in yearsDiscussion about whether this dad was always terrible or if parenthood changed himWhy the wife can't leave even though she "could care less about him anymore"The hypocrisy of stay-at-home dads vs stay-at-home moms and societal expectationsThis episode tackles the reality of regretful parenting, gender dynamics in childcare, stay-at-home parent depression, and why some people should never have kids. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support.
What happens when the love you're promised as a parent never shows up?In this episode, Erika and Kristen dive into one of the most taboo and honest conversations about parenthood: regret, ambivalence, and not loving your child the way society says you should. Reading directly from the Regretful Parents subreddit, we unpack a post from a mother who admits she doesn't love her baby and can't figure out why. From postpartum expectations and hormonal myths to comparisons between loving pets vs. children, this episode explores:Why some parents don't feel instant love after birthThe difference between love as a feeling vs. love as an actionPostpartum depression, trauma, and emotional overstimulationWhy mothers are rarely allowed to admit regretThe pressure to perform “good motherhood” even when you're strugglingWhether love can grow later — or never come at all
What if the way you think about wealth is keeping you from building it? In this episode, Dr. Jay Zigmont, CFP® and Carl Richards, CFP® creator of the Sketch Guy column in the New York Times, sit down to explore how simple drawings unlock profound truths about money and life.Carl shares the stories behind his most powerful sketches, including the Venn diagram asking "What can I control?" and "What matters?" and why their overlap is where real financial planning happens. Key Takeaways:Focus on the overlap of what matters and what you control.Real financial planning aligns money with life.The only goal that matters is yours.Childfree planning requires different tools and thinking.Episode Host:Dr. Jay Zigmont, PhD, MBA, CFP® is the Founder of Childfree Wealth, a life and financial planning firm dedicated to helping people simplify their finances so they can live an amazing Childfree life. Dr. Jay is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®, Childfree Wealth Specialist, and author of the book “The Childfree Guide to Life and Money.” His Ph.D. is in Adult Learning from the University of Connecticut.Meet the Guest:Carl Richards, CFP®, wrote The Sketch Guy column in The New York Times for a decade, using cardstock and a Sharpie to make money feel less complicated. He's the author of bestsellers The Behavior Gap and The One-Page Financial Plan, and his latest book, Your Money: Reimagining Wealth in 101 Simple Sketches, released in October 2025. Carl hosts the daily podcast Behavior Gap Radio and founded The Society of Advice, a community for financial planners dedicated to the craft of advice. Learn more on his website: behaviorgap.com.Connect with Carl Online: LinkedIn X Instagram. Pre-order Carl's book on Amazon or at your favorite bookstore. To place a bulk order of Carl's book, visit this link and use the code YourMoney5 at checkout to save aAbout Childfree Life by Design: Childfree Life By Design is dedicated to helping Childfree individuals thrive by providing resources, guidance, and community. We recognize that when you've made a decision roughly 75% of the population doesn't make, conventional wisdom simply doesn't apply to you. Our mission is to help you design a life that works for you, covering everything from finances and relationships to career decisions and building support networks that will actually be there when you need them. Connect with Us: Ready to design your ideal Childfree life? Connect with our financial planning team at childfreewealth.com or learn more about estate planning at childfreetrust.com Join the conversation on social media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/childfreeinsightsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChildfreeInsights/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/childfreeinsightsYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ChildfreeInsights Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational & entertainment purposes. Please consult your advisor before implementing any ideas heard on this podcast...
It's the listener question episode!Don't miss your chance to join me in VIETNAM — and it's an artsy person's dream itinerary! Buy your tickets while they last.Wanna get your finances in order? Use our link to sign up for a FREE 34 day trial of YNAB (You Need A Budget) and support the show. Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Substack, Instagram, TikTok, and Threads at @dinkypod.Follow us on YouTube.Merch is here!!!If you have a question or comment, email us at dinky@dinkypod.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support.
In the age of turning to technology over talking with others I was curious what the 10 most Googled questions about childfree living are. So today, I'm giving my most honest responses to the questions people are curious about but don't always feel comfortable asking out loud.What are the benefits of a child-free lifestyle?Does being child-free affect relationships, marriage, and partner compatibility?How do child-free people find community, support, or social groups?This episode breaks down common fears, myths, and assumptions surrounding a childfree life with a few throwbacks to former episodes full of resources of support. If you're new to the podcast or the childfree community this is a great episode to start with! Support the showEmail: claimingzeropodcast@gmail.comIG/FB: @claimingzero
This week's vault episode, tune in to hear a thought-provoking conversation about being childfree with teacher Jessica Hawk. Jessica candidly shares her personal journey of choosing a childfree lifestyle and the challenges she faced along the way. As we dive deeper into this topic, you'll hear Jessica's perspective on societal pressure and misconceptions surrounding childfree living. Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights and hear from a woman who is living a life she loves, without children. Join us for a fascinating conversation that will challenge your assumptions and open your mind. Don't miss out, tune in now! More about Jessica: Jessica Hawk is a teacher in Gloucester County, NJ. She has two master's degrees and a doctorate. Her second job is as an International College Counselor for top-tier students in Saudi Arabia. Her third job is creating content on social media. How to find Jessica: Tiktok Instagram Book recommendation (s): The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom by Don Miguel Ruiz How to find WOMENdontDOthat: Patreon Instagram Twitter Blog Podcast Newsletter Website Interested in sponsorship? Contact us at hello@womendontdothat.com Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/womendontdothatRecommend guests: https://www.womendontdothat.com/How to find WOMENdontDOthat:Patreonhttps://www.patreon.com/womendontdothatInstagram - http://www.instagram.com/womendontdothat/TikTok- http://www.tiktok.com/@womendontdothatBlog- https://www.womendontdothat.com/blogPodcast- https://www.womendontdothat.com/podcastNewsletter- https://www.beaconnorthstrategies.com/contactwww.womendontdothat.comYouTube - http://www.youtube.com/@WOMENdontDOthatHow to find Stephanie Mitton:Twitter/X- https://twitter.com/StephanieMittonLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephaniemitton/beaconnorthstrategies.comTikTok- https://www.tiktok.com/@stephmittonInstagram- https://www.instagram.com/stephaniemitton/Interested in sponsorship? Contact us at hello@womendontdothat.comProduced by Duke & CastleOur Latest Blogs:https://www.womendontdothat.com/post/confidence-is-an-advocacy-tool-what-selena-rezvani-taught-me-about-speaking-up-and-being-heardhttps://www.womendontdothat.com/post/her-story-her-books-2025https://www.womendontdothat.com/post/i-don-t-do-resolutions-i-do-this-perfect-for-busy-women Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Building better financial habits is less about willpower and more about understanding how your brain works. In this episode, Dr. Jay Zigmont, CFP®, and Fiona Waller, MSW, LCSW, CFP® dive into the behavioral side of personal finance, exploring why all-or-nothing thinking keeps you stuck, how to make progress visible, and what the science of habit formation teaches us about lasting change.Drawing from Dr. Jay's background in adult learning and Fiona's training as a therapist, this conversation goes beyond spreadsheets and investment strategies to tackle the messy, gray area of human behavior. If you've ever wondered why you keep repeating financial patterns you inherited or why your budget never seems to stick, this episode offers practical tools to help you build habits that actually support the intentional Childfree life you're designing.Key Takeaways:All-or-nothing thinking sabotages progress: The mindset of "be the best or don't do it at all" keeps you stuck at extremes and prevents you from making meaningful progress in the messy middle ground where real change happens.Financial success is 80% behavioral: The hard work of personal finance isn't in the spreadsheets or investment calculations. It's in understanding your behaviors, mental models, and the voices in your head that drive your financial decisions.Starting small creates sustainable change: Rather than attempting major overhauls that lead to failure, focus on getting 1% better each day or making one small improvement at a time to build momentum without burnout.Naming your internal voice creates distance: Identifying whose voice is in your head and why it's there allows you to acknowledge its role in getting you this far, then consciously choose to take it from here on your own terms.Episode Hosts:Dr. Jay Zigmont, CFP® - Founder & CEO of Childfree Wealth®, Childfree Trust®, & Childfree Insights. Author of "The Childfree Guide to Life and Money." Dr. Jay's background in adult learning brings a unique behavioral focus to financial planning.Fiona Waller, MSW, LCSW, CFP® - Childfree Wealth Specialist® at Childfree Wealth®. Fiona brings a unique perspective as a former therapist, focusing on the intersection of mental health and money using a trauma-informed background to help clients align their financial and life plans with their values. About Childfree Life by Design: Childfree Life By Design is dedicated to helping Childfree individuals thrive by providing resources, guidance, and community. We recognize that when you've made a decision roughly 75% of the population doesn't make, conventional wisdom simply doesn't apply to you. Our mission is to help you design a life that works for you, covering everything from finances and relationships to career decisions and building support networks that will actually be there when you need them. Connect with Us: Ready to design your ideal Childfree life? Connect with our financial planning team at childfreewealth.com or learn more about estate planning at childfreetrust.com Join the conversation on social media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/childfreeinsightsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChildfreeInsights/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/childfreeinsightsYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ChildfreeInsights Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational & entertainment purposes. Please consult your advisor before implementing any ideas heard on this podcast...
In this episode I am making history on the podcast by sitting down with a mom for the first time in the show's existence!Victoria is a proud mother in the thick of early parenthood and today she joins me to me to talk openly about the assumptions, misunderstandings, and quiet struggles that exist on both sides. This isn't a debate. It's not “us vs. them.” It's a real conversation about coexistence.Join us as we talk about what parents may not realize about the pressures faced by childfree adults. How the childfree community can show up better for parents — without sacrificing boundaries. Why mutual respect matters more than agreement. And how empathy, honesty, and curiosity can change the narrative for everyone.Whether you're childfree, on the fence, a parent, or somewhere in between, this episode is an invitation to listen, learn, and build bridges — not walls.Support the showEmail: claimingzeropodcast@gmail.comIG/FB: @claimingzero
Aaron Renn welcomes back Daniel Hess, one of the sharpest analysts of global fertility trends, for a deep dive into why birth rates are collapsing—and why the divide is increasingly political.They discuss:- The growing fertility gap between red states (near replacement) and blue states (deeply sub-replacement)- How marriage is becoming even more important for births in the era of perfect birth control- The rise of a genuine pro-natal culture on the political right- Why high-density YIMBY-style housing often hurts family formation- The forgotten role of suburban sprawl in fueling the Baby Boom- Rising material expectations and status competition squeezing young families- Billionaire fertility extremes and the shifting debate around IVF/surrogacyIf we want a growing future, we need more births. This episode unpacks the cultural, economic, and policy roadblocks—and what might actually move the needleChapters:(00:00 - Intro & Global Fertility Collapse)(01:11 - The New Political Divide on Kids)(05:30 - Marriage Matters More Than Ever)(09:20 - Pronatal Culture Emerging on the Right)(11:40 - Why Israel Is the Only High-Fertility Developed Nation)(14:50 - Housing: The Real Barrier for Families)(22:20 - YIMBY vs. Family-Friendly Building)(28:50 - Suburbia & the Baby Boom Lesson)(36:30 - Materialism and the Rising "Cost" of Kids)(43:35 - Billionaires, IVF, and Fertility Tech Debates)DANIEL HESS LINKS:
Welcome to a brand new era! After two and a half years as the Childfree Wealth® Podcast, we're excited to introduce Childfree Life By Design. This isn't just a rebrand; it's an expansion of our mission. While finances remain a cornerstone, we're now diving deeper into relationships, career decisions, and designing a life that works for you. In this special relaunch episode, hosts Bri Conn and Dr. Jay Zigmont introduce the expanded team. Key Takeaways:The rebrand expands the mission: Childfree Life By Design goes beyond financial planning to cover relationships, career pivots, healthcare navigation, community building, and finding meaning on your own terms.Traditional planning doesn't work for Childfree people: The financial planning industry is built around funding college educations and passing wealth to the next generation, leaving Childfree individuals without tailored resources.Childfree planning is actually more complex: End-of-life planning, long-term care, and determining who makes decisions when you can't advocate for yourself require more intentional planning without children.Meet the Team:Dr. Jay Zigmont, CFP® - Founder & CEO of Childfree Wealth®, Childfree Trust®, & Childfree Insights. Author of "The Childfree Guide to Life and Money."Bri Conn, CFP® - Customer Experience Manager at Childfree Trust® and co-host. Bri joined the Childfree space after connecting with Dr. Jay while studying to become a CFP® professional.Fiona Waller, MSW, LCSW, CFP® - Childfree Wealth Specialist® at Childfree Wealth®. Fiona brings a unique perspective as a former therapist, focusing on the intersection of mental health and money using a trauma-informed background to help clients align their financial and life plans with their values.Scott Barnes, CFP®, TPCP®, CLTC - Associate Advisor at Childfree Wealth®. Scott is the go-to expert for long-term care strategies and tax planning questions.Maddy Roche - Chief Growth Officer at Childfree Trust® and responsible for all sales & marketing initiatives.Alli Gage - Chief of Staff at Childfree Insights. Alli is the behind-the-scenes coordinator who ensures all organizations operate in an orderly fashion across the board. About Childfree Life by Design: Childfree Life By Design is dedicated to helping Childfree individuals thrive by providing resources, guidance, and community. We recognize that when you've made a decision roughly 75% of the population doesn't make, conventional wisdom simply doesn't apply to you. Our mission is to help you design a life that works for you, covering everything from finances and relationships to career decisions and building support networks that will actually be there when you need them. Connect with Us: Ready to design your ideal Childfree life? Connect with our financial planning team at childfreewealth.com or learn more about estate planning at childfreetrust.com Join the conversation on social media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/childfreeinsightsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChildfreeInsights/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/childfreeinsightsYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ChildfreeInsights Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational & entertainment purposes. Please consult your advisor before implementing any ideas heard on this podcast...
Harriet Tubman is often remembered as a hero — but rarely discussed as a woman who lived child-free by circumstance.In this episode, we explore Harriet Tubman's life beyond the history books: her childhood in slavery, the traumatic injury that shaped her faith and resilience, her escape to freedom, and her fearless return south to lead dozens to freedom. We also dive into her marriages, her private life, her service during the Civil War, and why she never had biological children. Her story highlights how legacy can be built through courage, community care, and purpose. Harriet Tubman didn't raise children — she helped raise a nation toward freedom.Support the showEmail: claimingzeropodcast@gmail.comIG/FB: @claimingzero
Just in time for the holidays today I am reading a post from the r/childfree community that perfectly captures a childfree holiday nightmare. What starts as a Thanksgiving dinner quickly turns into that all-too-familiar interrogation we all dread having when this poster's aunt starts questioning her choice to no have kids. In this episode I break down why holiday gatherings are often a breeding ground for intrusive comments, forced opinions, and disrespect of childfree choices. I'll give you some tips on how to navigate these situations without loosing your sanity. As Christmas approaches let this be your reminder that being childfree does not mean you have to be open to debate. Share your holiday experience with me at claimingzeropodcast@gmail.comSupport the showEmail: claimingzeropodcast@gmail.comIG/FB: @claimingzero
We're sitting down with Rachael Eckles. In this conversation, Rachael shares her journey to becoming child-free, her career evolution from law and bioethics to fiction writing, and her advocacy for women's health. She discusses the impact of her education and health experiences on her life choices, the importance of diverse voices in publishing, and her desire to empower women through her writing and publishing platform. Rachael Eckles discusses her journey as an independent author and publisher, emphasizing the importance of providing access to publishing for others. She shares her experiences in building Aphrodite Books, her motivations for writing, and the impact of her childfree lifestyle on her creative process. Rachael also highlights the significance of empowering diverse voices in literature and the freedom to choose one's own path in life.Connect with Rachael on Instagram Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode — it helps people find the show!Merch is here!!! Get your merch NOW!Erika is taking a group of childfree travelers to VIETNAM — and it's an artsy adventurer's dream itinerary! Buy your tickets while they last. Wanna get your finances in order? Use our link to sign up for a FREE 34 day trial of YNAB (You Need A Budget) and support the show. Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Substack, Instagram, TikTok, and Threads at @dinkypod. Follow us on YouTube.If you have a question or comment, email us at dinky@dinkypod.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support.
It's the debut of Season 6 of Claiming Zero and these time around I am starting it off with a big update! This season Vanessa will be hosting solo. New chapter, same honesty. Starting with why your childfree-by-choice decision owes no-one any explanations. If you've ever heard "You'll change your mind" or "You must hate children" or "You'll never know true love" and are not quite sure what to say back this episode covers each one and more! Give it a listen and let me know what your thoughts are on the new format at claimingzeropodcast@gmail.comSupport the showEmail: claimingzeropodcast@gmail.comIG/FB: @claimingzero
In this episode we discuss: Disney World and Epic Universe Mickeys Very Merry Christmas Party Food and Wine Listen to the full episode for all of this and more! Have thoughts on this trip? We'd love to hear from you! Resources See photos from Robin's trip MY favorite products to beat the heat Double Your WDW Amazon Shop Do you want to be a guest and share your trip? Get a FREE Disney World Vacation Quote Never Miss an Episode Subscribe on iTunes Join Julie's newsletter Help the show. Leave an honest review on iTunes. Your ratings & reviews help, and I read each one because I love your input! Subscribe on iTunes Follow Us! Follow on Instagram Follow on TikTok Like on Facebook Follow on YouTube Let's Connect Do you have tips you want to share with other listeners? Do you want to be a guest and share your Disney expertise? Do you want to be a guest and share your trip report? Contact me! I'd love to hear from you. Plan Your Best Disney World Trip Ever
Barbara Dunkelman is here to chat about her incredible journey from being a fan to being the voice of Rooster Teeth's Yang Xiao Long on RWBY. She opens up about the company's unexpected closure, dealing with planning a wedding, and finding relief in a major life change. This deep-dive covers the pressure of chasing trends and the truth about self-worth outside of analytics. We also explore profound personal philosophies, including the 10% vs. 90% rule of reaction , the power of the "Main Character Complex", and the anxiety around personal choices. Barbara and Kati get candid about their shared decision to be childfree, battling societal pressure, and the freedom that comes with fully committing to a life without regret. Plus, learn about her new product line and her D&D podcast, Tales from the Stinky Dragon. My new book is available for pre-order! Why Do I Keep Doing This? https://geni.us/XoyLSQ Book Tour: https://katimorton.com/wdikdt-book-tour If you've ever felt stuck, this book is for you. I'd be so grateful for your support. Shopping with our sponsors helps support the show and allows us to continue bringing you these important conversations about mental health. Please check out this week's special offers: Aura Frames - use the promo code: KATI at https://auraframes.com/ for $35 off Carver Matte frames Fabletics - 80% off everything for new VIP sign-ups at https://www.fabletics.com/Kati One Skin - use the promo code: KATI for 15% off at https://www.oneskin.co/Kati ⏱️ Timestamps 00:01:32 Moving to Austin: Joining Rooster Teeth and the stressful work visa process. 00:04:14 The early days of RT: Starting as Community Manager when the company was tiny. 00:18:54 Barbara's Anxiety: Starting Always Open and her interest in mental health. 00:23:22 The 10/90 Rule: You have control over how you react to things. 00:25:04 The Main Character Complex: Why everyone is thinking about themselves, not you. 00:28:23 Therapy Search: The challenge of finding the right fit for counseling. 00:44:49 The Scariest Standard: How being exposed to "the best of the best" online affects self-image. 00:46:35 Phone Addiction: Strategies Barbara uses to put her phone in "timeout". 00:47:44 Choosing Childfree: Why Barbara decided against having kids and the pressure to procreate. 00:50:02 Ending the Regret Cycle: Making the decision and committing to it fully. 00:53:01 The "Selfish" Argument: Why choosing your own happiness isn't truly selfish. 01:04:11 The Next Chapter: Retaining the IP for Tales from the Stinky Dragon. 01:06:02 New Venture: Developing her own hair styling cream. 01:08:29 Intentional Travel: Living out their Childfree plans with a trip to Japan More Barbara! Tales from the Stinky Dragon https://www.youtube.com/@stinkydragonpod Barbara's Instagram https://www.instagram.com/bdunkelman All Good. No Worries https://www.instagram.com/allgood.noworries Don't forget to Like and Subscribe for more Ask Kati Anything episodes every week Ask Kati Anything ep. 291 | Your mental health podcast, with Kati Morton, LMFT MAIN YOUTUBE CHANNEL www.youtube.com/@Katimorton MY BOOKS Traumatized https://geni.us/Bfak0j Are u ok? https://geni.us/sva4iUY ONLINE THERAPY While I do not currently offer online therapy, our sponsor BetterHelp can connect you with a licensed, online therapist. Receive 10% off your first month at https://betterhelp.com/kati PARTNERSHIPS Nick Freeman | nick@biglittlemedia.co Disclaimer: The information provided in this video is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or mental health advice. It should not be used to diagnose or treat any health problem or disease. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Viewing this content does not establish a therapist-client relationship. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices