What happens when you choose a life without children in a world that expects motherhood?
Maria Coffey's memoir "Instead: Navigating Adventures of a Childfree Life" explores this question through her extraordinary journey from near-death experiences to global adventures. My friend, Jaime, and I discuss her inspiring conviction to live her life on her own terms.
Through vivid storytelling, we travel alongside Maria from her 1950s Catholic upbringing to her daring escape from traditional expectations. Her near-drowning experience at 21 became a pivotal moment, giving her clarity about life's fragility and the courage to chase her dreams despite her mother's disapproval. "I had to make my own life," Maria declares, words that become her north star as she builds an adventurous existence with her husband.
What makes this memoir extraordinary isn't just Maria's global kayaking expeditions or her successful travel business, but how she finds meaningful connections with children despite her choice not to have her own. Her relationships with Bok in Vietnam and Agnes in Kenya reveal that motherhood comes in many forms and our opportunities to have a positive effect on another are endless.
"Instead" challenges us to consider what makes a fulfilling life and reminds us that our choices don't require justification, even when they break tradition. Have you ever felt pressured to follow someone else's dream for your life? Maria's story might just give you the courage to follow your own.
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Buy “Instead” By Maria Coffey
Learn more about SOS Children’s Villages
Transcripts are available through Apple’s podcast app—they may not be perfect, but relying on them allows me to dedicate more time to the show! If you’re interested in being a transcript angel, let me know.
This episode is produced, recorded, and its content edited by me.
Technical editing by Brianna Picone
Theme song by Devin Kennedy
Special thanks to my dear friend, Jaime. Xx, Alex
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