Shows
The Full StopI Can’t Not Do It: Storytelling, Grief and IdentityWe welcome Professor Gayle Letherby, a pioneering sociologist whose deeply personal and academic work has transformed how we think about childlessness, grief, identity, and storytelling. Gayle reflects on her journey, beginning with a miscarriage in the 1980s that altered her life trajectory and became the foundation of a groundbreaking academic career. Her research into involuntary childlessness, pregnancy loss, and the status of parenthood spans decades and she’s still going strong
About Professor Gayle Letherby
Having worked as a nursery nurse prior to the miscarriage (in the early 1980s) of my, to my knowledge, one an...2025-06-011h 03The Full StopEpisode 74: Being a childless aunt, uncle or godparentWelcome to this episode of the Full Stop podcast, where we’re joined by our guests John and Ben to explore the joys and complexities of being a childless aunt, uncle, or godparent. Together, we reflect on how these roles offer meaningful ways to nurture, support, and build a legacy when one is childless not by choice. Listen for advice on boundaries, freedom, and the unique impact of chosen relationships across generations.
Please note that we do cover what it’s like not to be an aunt, uncle or godparent, as one of our presenters does not have...2025-05-071h 07The Full StopFriendship and Found FamilyIn this episode of the Full Stop podcast, hosts Berenice, Michael, and Sarah are joined by returning guest Robert Nurden to discuss the complex and often underexplored topic of how childlessness impacts friendships. We get curious about personal experiences, societal reactions, and the emotional complexities surrounding friendship dynamics in the context of childlessness.
How to contact Robert
Robert can be found via his website and Instagram, and you can buyI Always Wanted To Be A Dad:Men Without Children on Amazon. Watch Robert performing Empty at The Old Red Lion theatre on Instagram.
2025-04-0759 minThe Full StopInternational Women's Day: Breaking the Silence on Childlessness and Gender EqualityWe welcome Anne Altamore, founder and owner of Life After IVF Counselling, Psychotherapy and Coaching. Anne shares her insights on the importance of visibility, the emotional toll of exclusion, and how social media can be used to broaden conversations about childlessness.
We tackle International Women’s Day, discussing the need for allyship, the gendered expectations placed on women, and how we can all work towards a more inclusive and equal society that is inclusive to childless women. We’re talking about …
The emotional impact of childlessness in professional and personal spaces
The importance of ack...2025-03-081h 06The Full StopChildless and Pregnancy Loss
In this deeply moving episode, Sarah and Michael open up an honest and heartfelt conversation about miscarriage, pregnancy loss, and the isolation that follows. Joined by special guests Lori and Sandra McNicol, we share personal journeys of loss, infertility, and coming to terms with a life without children.
From the emotional highs of pregnancy to the devastating impact of loss, they explore the grief, silence, and stigmas surrounding miscarriage, as well as the challenges of finding support in a society that often struggles to acknowledge this type of grief.
Topics covered:
The e...2025-02-021h 00The Full StopAlternative Approaches to ResolutionsWelcome to the 70th episode of the Full Stop Podcast! We’re joined by returning guests Bindi Shah and Lisa Kissane, alongside co-hosts Berenice and Michael Hughes, for an inspiring conversation about setting intentions, goals, and how we navigate life as childless individuals.
What We Discuss:
Gentle Intentions vs. Rigid Goals:
Lisa and Bindi contrast the pressures of goal-setting with the more flexible, empowering practice of setting intentions.
Writing as Healing:
Writing plays a pivotal role in self-expression and healing. From Bindi’s poetry to Lisa’s intention to write her first novel, we exp...2025-01-051h 11The Full StopTriggers and Tackling Festive CelebrationsWe are thrilled to be joined by Karin Enfield De Vries from Pure Transformations and Scared Woman Retreats for an honest exploration of boundaries, grief, and finding joy during times of celebration.
Holidays like Christmas are often painted as joyful and magical, but for many, they bring up emotional complexities—especially for those navigating childlessness and changing family dynamics. We join Karin to unpack what it means to honour yur needs, set healthy boundaries, and create new traditions that reflect who you are today.
We’ll talk about the courage to say no, the art of s...2024-12-011h 10The Full StopChildless Men’s Experiences in SocietyDrawing from their panel discussion at the Storyhouse Childless event in Chester, we explore what it means to navigate society and self-perception as men without children—whether by choice or circumstance. Featuring insights from Michael, Andy Harrod, Mark Briggs van Leeuwen, and Sam Ryley, this candid conversation highlights the challenges, the societal silence, and the journey to self-acceptance faced by childless men across generations.
The importance of providing visibility and voice for childless men, challenging societal silence, and creating safe spaces for men to openly discuss their experiences.
Support for childless men:
A...2024-11-0356 minThe Full StopChildlessness and money explainedIn this conversation, Dr Jay Zigmont discusses the unique financial planning needs of childless people. He emphasises the importance of understanding the different life scripts and financial goals that come with being childless, and we have a chat about the societal judgments and perceptions that often accompany being childless not by choice. We talk about the challenges of systemic change in financial services to better help us, the significance of legacy and the power in building supportive communities.
Childfree Wealth® and his website Childfree Wealth®.
2024-09-231h 14The Full StopAgeing with experienceIn this conversation, Michael discusses the challenges and fears associated with aging and the need for planning and preparation. He emphasises the importance of thinking ahead and considering various aspects of life, such as cognitive ability, health, relationships, and technology. We also talk about the role of advocacy and the need for trusted friends or family members to support and advocate for individuals as they age.
Michael shares personal experiences with his parents' dementia and the importance of having legal documents in place, such as power of attorney and enduring guardianship. We highlight the need for proactive...2024-09-0155 minThe Full StopMaking a noise with World Childless WeekWorld Childless Week is an annual event that aims to give a voice to the childless community. It was started by Stephanie Joy Phillips because she felt there was a lack of representation for childless individuals. The event has grown over the years, supported by the Ambassadors who help organise and promote the week.
Being childless not by choice (cnbc) is the taboo subject of an unrecognised minority. World Childless Week is there to help the cnbc: validate their emotions, find support, build friendships, realise their own worth and rediscover the confidence to speak out and celebrate th...2024-07-2852 minThe Full StopTelling Stories with StoryhouseStoryhouse is an independent arts centre and creative hub in Chester, UK. It offers a range of events, including Storyhouse Childless, which focuses on supporting and raising awareness for those who are childless or child-free. The event has grown over the years, with increasing attendance and expanded programming. It provides a safe and supportive environment for people to connect, share their experiences, and find understanding. The event is a two-day gathering that aims to create a supportive and empowering space for the childless community.
Join Annabel, Kirsty, Jane and Nicola as we find out about the themes...2024-07-071h 06The Full StopThe Spaces Between Us: Childfree and ChildlessWe are joined by Ali Hall and Dr. Dawn Llewellyn to discuss the perceptions of childfree and childless individuals. We explore the challenges of visibility and the need for more nuanced language. The conversation addresses the divide between the childfree and childless communities, the importance of creating safe spaces, and the complexities of aging without children. The episode emphasises empathy, understanding, and debates unity as a means of advocating for non-parents.
Dawn is an Associate Professor of Religion and Gender at the University of Chester, where she has been based since 2010. Dawn has been researching, publishing, and s...2024-05-271h 27The Full StopEpisode 62: Ask Us Anything: Five Years of The Full StopThe Full Stop are joined by members of the online community to discuss personal growth, the importance of inclusivity and diversity within the childless community, and the therapeutic power of vulnerability. We share our struggles and the strength we have found in the community's empathy and support. We also discuss future directions, advocating for the community, and the value of challenging conversations. The episode underscores the The Full Stop’s role in creating a supportive environment and the collective appreciation for the sense of belonging it has provided.
Enter our competition to win a signed copy of Sa...2024-04-281h 31The Full StopChildlessness and loneliness
Dr Joanne Lawrence-Bourne, founder of Natal Instincts Reproductive Psychology, and Dr. Robin Hadley, an independent research consultant and associate lecturer, shed light on the invisible pain of loneliness. In our conversations in our Full Stop online community and our personal experiences, we are very aware that loneliness can hit harder during holiday times and celebration days but often it can surface during our daily lives. We dive into an exploration of isolation and the impact on those without children, and share our personal encounters with this complex feeling.
2024-03-281h 11The Full StopEpisode 60: Save Me from the WavesIn this episode we catch up with Jessica Hepburn, who shares insights from her life as an author and adventure activist. Jessica discusses her upcoming book "Save Me from the Waves," the therapeutic role of nature and swimming in her life, and the influence of "Desert Island Discs" on her personal growth. She shoes her plans for a year of self-love and her writing on Substack. The conversation encompasses themes of resilience, self-discovery, and the importance of finding joy and connection in our found family.
2024-02-171h 14The Full StopManaging the workplace as a non-parentIn this podcast episode, Sophie Hunter from S E Hunter Associates joins us for thoughtful discussion about the challenges that people without children face in professional settings, including workplace bullying and discrimination. We share personal experiences and emphasise the need for greater awareness, support, and genuine empathy from colleagues and managers. The conversation explores the differences in experiences between childless men and women, the importance of leadership training, and the potential for childlessness to become a protected characteristic. We share our advocacy for open communication, the creation of employee support networks, and encourage companies and business networks to foster...2024-01-191h 16The Full StopBoundaries and care at ChristmasIn this episode of the Full Stop hosts Sarah, Michael and Berenice, reflect on their year and discuss the challenges and highlights they've experienced. They talk about their recent meetup in Chester, the growth of their podcast and community, and the challenges of Christmas for the childless community. They also discuss the importance of setting boundaries in their personal and professional lives. The episode concludes with a messages of self-care and support from the community to their listeners during the holiday season. Our newsletter thanks our guests and shares more support.
2023-12-161h 36The Full StopWhy is nobody talking about childless men?The 57th episode of The Full Stop podcast is recorded to raise awareness of childless men on International Men's Day, 19th November, #IMD2023 The recording features a panel of childless men discussing their experiences and perspectives. The speakers, from various backgrounds and professions, share their personal journeys with childlessness, discussing feelings of exclusion and inclusion and the impact of societal narratives around men who are not fathers, and the importance of finding support. They also address the lack of conversation around childless men and the need for more recognition and understanding. The discussion includes research findings from Dr Robin...2023-11-191h 22The Full StopHidden Stories of Childlessness with Danielle and NinaJoin us for an incredibly moving conversation with Nina Thair and Danielle Hines, as we explore the impact of disability on childlessness. Listen in as Nina and Danielle bravely share their personal journeys, revealing how their physical disabilities have influenced their lives, from mobility challenges and educational delays to understanding their conditions. They touch upon the deep emotional aspects of being childless and how the support of friendships and relationships has empowered them through their journeys.
In the next segment, Danielle narrates her life with Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) and chronic migraine with brainstem aura, and...2023-10-1557 minThe Full StopI Always Wanted To Be A DadPlease note that this reading contains a piece called The Babies Next Door and references maternal instinct.
Join us as we welcome our friend and author, Robert Nurden, to an enriching conversation that covers his personal and professional journey, from his journalism days to teaching, and the life-altering significance of a cup of Americano. Listen to Robert's fascinating story of shifting gears from mainstream journalism to teaching English in various parts of the world like Sweden, India, and Sydney.
Discover the emotional journey of a childless man, as Robert opens up about the complex feelings...2023-09-171h 03The Full StopChanging attitudes to medical care and childlessnessThis month meet Gail Miller. She is a coach, and medical doctor working in healthcare in the USA. She’s made it her mission to challenge insensitivity and bias in the healthcare profession to help those who are childless as patients and non-parents who work in medicine to enable people to have a better, less triggering experience and create a place in which to learn. This podcast episode mentions miscarriage, IVF, cancer and infertility.
We were delighted to welcome members of our online Full Stop online community, some of whom work in medical organisations including the NHS an...2023-08-201h 16The Full StopCommunity, Friendship and childlessnessOur July 2023 guests are Janine Ford and Cecilia Rebild who talk to us about community and friendship. They met in Copenhagen in Denmark and generously shared their story about friendships that can be forged from childlessness experiences and the meaning of friendship as we come to terms with not being parents. They are co-creators of a support network in Denmark, a vision they shared and acted on during the height of the pandemic. You can read more details about their work on our website.
2023-07-231h 09The Full StopThe Circle of Transformation with Karin Enfield De ViresThis June 2023 episode is with Karin Enfield De Vries who many of you know a supportive moderator and counsellor. She is the founder of Pure Tranformations, a grief and loss counsellor with a focus on childlessness, a wellbeing coach and a change management consultant. Karin volunteers as a guest speaker for various cancer trusts in the Netherlands to help raise awareness of the long term consequences of being childless after cancer.
Listen for an empowering discussion about self-compassion, finding a support network, how to find help and Karin's Circle of Transformation, and so much more. We had...2023-06-161h 16The Full StopSecuring our futureIn this episode, the three of us invite you into our space as we share three pieces of exciting news that will inspire and empower you.
They may concern some of you, and you almost certainly will have questions. You're welcome to ask us questions - all queries are welcome, and none are silly - and to be part of this journey with us. Please do get in touch with any of us.
What began as an idea on a post-it note after Michael and then Sarah mentioned to Berenice that they loved podcasts has f...2023-05-2145 minThe Full StopSolo Ageing and InclusionWe are delighted to bring you our next episode on solo ageing with Patricia Faulks and Denise Jackson (whom you may recall from our first year of broadcasting).
Patricia Faulks set up her blog, Lilley and Me, during Covid lockdowns to share the story of ageing alone with childlessness and the challenges that brings including learning how to use her computer and Zoom calls. Denise Jackson returns to the podcast to talk about bias around money saving having challenged UK money expert Martin Lewis to tackle solo households. You can find her on Twitter.
Patricia an...2023-04-231h 23The Full StopChildless Step ParentingWe’re joining by two guests who you’ve met before. Catch up with Ken and Lisa as we talk about step parenting when childless not by choice.
We cover the difficulties of Mother’s Day and daily life. Ken and Lisa talk about society’s perception of being a step parent both within the childless community and outside it. We ask about the problems of language and how that affects the sense of place in a family.
Here’s our guest details
Lisa Kissane is the owner of Silvertongue Copy & Content Writing, a project born of ma...2023-03-171h 01The Full StopThe Childless Menopause
We’d like to introduce you to Anastasia MacDonald who many of you may already know from her constant and reassuring presence online. We gather to talk about how the menopause affects us as the childless not by choice community. Is it a relief? A time of mourning and what’s it like on the other side?
Like many of our episodes, we connect our community both as listeners but also as guests and we have a feeling that there will be some interesting collaborations to come. We do love seeing our guests meet and share stories! If y...2023-02-191h 18The Full StopNew Beginnings: January 2023We’d like to introduce you to our guests who are rather marvellous company, as you’ll find out in our 47th episode. Mike Sparks restores vintage electrics (yes, we also through he has a great name!) and teaches water skiing, how this two areas of his life come about? Caroline Stafford sells gorgeous biscuits and she talks about how she came to create a baking business. Also joining us is Vicky House who founded Clem’s Garden which we’ve long loved, and she explains her vision and her boundaries.
Here’s our guest details
Caroline...2023-01-221h 20The Full StopA year in review, December 2022In this episode we were joined by your words. We were delighted to receive messages from our community which we’ve shared with you. And it was a chance for the three of us to reveal our themes for 2023, ask if you’d like be a guest and a little on how we’ve grown over 2022.
2022-12-281h 13The Full StopHidden childless stories of being single, November 2022In this episode we were joined by Penny Rabarts from The Childless Wanderer and Elaine Ritchie, who works for the NHS; she provided palliative care during the height of Covid.
More people are childless due to being single than any other reason but it’s not spoken about. Are we in danger of creating bingos in our childless community and how we support each other? These were all questions we put to Elaine and Penny. Both were keen to share their experiences and be open about the triggers that have affected them. It’s an empowering listen.
2022-11-271h 19The Full StopHidden childless stories, the unseen grief of invisible illness: October 2022In this episode we were joined by Charlie Bishop, Palo Barker and Steph Penny. Often the wider world can assume that the only reasons we do not have children are failed IVF, failed adoption or didn't try. This narrative excludes many for whom getting pregnant can be life threatening or a hidden illness means one cannot conceive. Charlie, Palo and Steph all spoke about how invisible illnesses can compound and complete the unseen grief of not having children. We also asked them to share the support groups they have founded or are involved with, and resources that have helped...2022-10-281h 17The Full StopStruggle well with Jessica Hepburn, September 2022When we met up with Jessica Hepburn for episode 43, two things came to mind. The first is how we met her, which you’ll discover in the recording which was had a time of new starts for all of us and the importance of 43 which Jessica explains to us, and oddly how this is indeed, episode 43!
It’s fair to say that her pursuit of motherhood is just one of many parts of this pond to peak adventurer’s story! Jessica has been on many journeys herself and inspired others; maybe she’ll do that for you as you f...2022-09-241h 21The Full StopThe Hollow Sea by Annie Kirby, August 2022Annie Kirby lives on the south coast of England where she works part-time as a university researcher. She has an MA in Creative Writing from the University of East Anglia and a PhD in American Studies. Her short stories have been published in anthologies and broadcast on national radio and she is a winner of the Asham Award for short fiction. Annie is a graduate of the Penguin WriteNow programme.
Annie first appeared on our podcast in episode 2, way back in 2019. In episode 42, she joins us again as The Hollow Sea is released for publication.
I...2022-08-211h 29The Full StopDownriver Nomad, July 2022In Episode 41, meet Rob Hutchings, a seasoned endurance athlete and author of Downriver Nomad. In his autobiography, Rob tells tales of his nomadic adventures in triathlon, marathon swimming and sports, navigating hairpin bends, whirlpools and white-water rapids.
We were thrilled when he accepted our invitation to the Full Stop. In this recording, he discusses what compelled him to tackle adventure sports and speaks honestly about his struggles with an alcoholic father and childlessness. It’s a story that will open your eyes to strength, vulnerability and adversity.
You can buy Rob’s book, Downriver Nomad: A Tr...2022-07-241h 35The Full StopChasing Creation, June 2022In Episode 40, we were honoured to share spacing with Katy Seppi who joined us in early June to talk about the forthcoming Childless Collective Summit. It’s happening again on 14-17th July 2022. Join us as we meet Katy and discuss the event and creating communities for people.
2022-06-251h 22The Full StopA new support hub, May 2022In Episode 39, we put our own Sarah Lawrence in the hot seat with coach Sarah Bagg. They've teamed up to launch the Childless Mental Health Hub and shared the story of the idea from it's website to a business with a network that promises to make a huge change.
If you're inspired to ask to Sarah Lawrence (for the counseling side) or Sarah Bagg (if you offer coaching), you can get in touch through the website. Sarah Bagg can also be found via her website, Life, Love and Me.
2022-05-2154 minThe Full StopThe power of grief with Stella Duffy, OBE; April 2022In Episode 38, we were reunited with Sarah who was recovering from Covid, and Stella Duffy OBE joined us. It's fair to say that when we asked Stella to be a guest and she said 'yes' we were thrilled, as admirers of her work. You’ll also see Stella in Gateway Women's videos.
Where does anyone start with describing the work and joy that Stella brings to theatre, yoga, mentoring, literature and life? As you'll find out, we struggled to find the words! There's a lesson right there - ask the guest to describe what they do in the...2022-04-171h 27The Full StopDo childless men need a community? March 2022We invited a few guys from the Clan of Brothers to discuss this topic, we were lucky enough to get guys from three different continents and cultures. Of course it was a rhetorical question we all need community, but what I found enriching were the reasons why.
We are not immune to loneliness as you will hear. We all need a safe space to share those inner most emotions and feelings with others knowing we will not be ridiculed. We also know that in community we have so much potential that can make our lives even better...2022-03-211h 20The Full StopEmpowerment, February 2022Empowerment can be a big act or something personal. In this episode we share our podcast episode with Judy Graham and Sarah Roberts who run their own practices supporting people who are childless not by choice. They’ve also dived into politics and tackled the issue of equality and this episode is an astonishing example of shared alliances and experiences.
2022-02-241h 12The Full StopEvolution: a full stop future, January 2022In this episode, we share the details on our plans. The background to the change is future proofing our work and making it more streamlined so that we can continue to inform, entertain and give a voice to our community.
We feel very fortunate to spend time with each other and our community including you, and people who support each other and take time out to care, making some incredible connections. Please listen and join us!
This episode was recorded during January 2022 and Covid-19 rules and restrictions we might discuss may have changed in your...2022-01-2339 minThe Full StopThe Alternative Kings and Queens speech, December 2021In this episode we are joined by past guests from the podcast to share messages of hope and coping techniques to help you through the festive season. Our guests share their experiences, and as always, there maybe some mentions of infertility treatment and miscarriage in this podcast.
We were joined by Helen Segal, Bindi Shah, Professor Krista Cooper, Clare Elleray (Mee) and Tessa Broad. You’ll also find some messages from past guests too.
This episode was recorded during November 20121 and Covid-19 rules and restrictions may have changed in your location in the meantime
2021-12-201h 55The Full StopPast, present and future reflections, November 2021In this episode we discuss the healing properties of The Full Stop, what we’ve learned from our guests and share the episodes that made an impact on us. We also share the plans we’re making to secure the future of the podcast from 2022.
2021-11-141h 12The Full StopChildlessness and work, October 2021In this episode we were joined by Katy Schnitzler who is a trainer, researcher and lecturer, studying for a PhD. She’s doing amazing work as the founder of MIST (Miscarriage & Infertility Support Training) providing workshops and information for businesses who want to support employees who are struggling with miscarriage, infertility and childlessness, and give them advice on creating a balanced workplace.
If you are a business owner, work in HR or any area of training, you’ll find this very useful. Colleagues and managers of anyone who is childless will also benefit from this as well as o...2021-10-151h 27The Full StopLet‘s talk about sex and intimacy, September 2021Join us - Michael, Berenice and Sarah - as we talk about sex and how being childless affects mental health, perception and worth. We discuss the triggers, the challenges and misunderstandings that come with not being a parent and how this life-changing journey has impacted intimacy.
We also celebrate being World Childless Week Ambassadors and Sarah’s award as the World Childless Week People’s champion, voted by our community.
In this episode, we talk about sex and there may be triggers for you as we include trying to conceive, fertility treatment, miscarriage and grief. As a...2021-09-141h 48The Full StopWorld Childless Week preview, August 2021In this episode, we were joined by the founder of World Childless Week, Stephanie Joy Phillips to get the inside information on the plans for the 5th year of this week-long event. World Childless Week brings together Ambassadors selected from the thought leaders, campaigners, and awareness raisers who volunteer alongside Steph, to give hope, support, and strength to our childless not by choice community.
In this exclusive gathering with Sarah Lawrence, Ambassadors Michael and Sarah, Steph also discussed what next for World Childless Week, how you can be involved and some of the events that are new...2021-08-141h 02The Full StopMen and mental health, July 2021"No feeling is good or bad, right or wrong. I don't get to judge, but I can sit with you and help you know you are not alone and that there is support out there." Chrissy Pantlin
Our guest this month is Chrissy Pantlin. She’s based in Australia. After illness, Chrissy qualified in counseling and set up her practice in the pandemic. Chrissy has taken all her knowledge from working in health and safety in heavy industry where she saw an absence in support mental and physical health and skills to provide a much-needed service. In th...2021-07-171h 14The Full StopThe joy in the everyday, June 2021Please be aware that we discuss failed pregnancy and suicide in this episode. If you would like further support you can find resources here on our toolkit.
Episode 28: The joy in the everyday is a celebration of self-care and looking after ourselves. We hope you’ll be inspired by our guests, Bindi Shah and Clare Elleray
Bindi Shah is a meditation teacher, a life coach and a healer. She’s started online meditation classes specifically for our community and Berenice loves them.
“I love meditation practice but it was always hard to find a space...2021-06-111h 14The Full StopIt’s our second birthday! May 2021Join us - Sarah, Michael and Berenice - as our guests turn the tables on us. We were not able to have an in-person party because of COVID and travel restrictions across the world, so we set up an open house with Jody Day, Robin Hadley, Sarah Roberts, Victoria Firth, Yvonne John and Lesley Pyne, with a special message from our podcast inspiration, Civilla Morgan.
2021-05-172h 05
Childless not by ChoiceChildless not by Choice Voices Give Hope on Mother's DayIntro:Hello, and welcome to episode 129 of the Childless not by Choice Podcast. My name is Civilla Morgan. My mission is to recognize and speak to childless not by choice women and men around the world, reminding you that you can live a joyful, relevant, fulfilled, childless not by choice, life. I also welcome you if you are not childless not by choice. Maybe you did not want children, maybe you have children. Thank you for tuning in. I would like to take a moment to thank the people who send me money every month. My Pa...2021-05-0332 minThe Full StopCelebrating 10 years of Gateway Women, April 2021When Jody asked us if she could celebrate 10 years of Gateway Women with The Full Stop podcast, we were delighted. All three of us are proud to call Jody a friend and an inspiration.
Gateway Women means a lot to Sarah and Berenice who have been members for many years and the model and thinking of the community has inspired Michael who has seen great change.
To find out more about Gateway Women and how to join please click here
2021-04-101h 24The Full StopSimply Us, March 2021This episode actually began as an ‘admin’ chat! We hit record and we realised there might be a few nuggets of wisdom. Join us as we riff about screen sharing, Covid in our countries (we do get a bit emotive here, and this was recorded in early February so the statistics have changed), handling Zoom meetings and boundaries.
2021-03-131h 24The Full StopNavigation with Kate Kaufmann, February 2021We are delighted to share with you, our next episode with Kate Kaufmann in another cross-continent broadcast - we get very excited about making connections across the world! We’ve called this episode Navigation because Kate, for us, is a fantastic voice for our community, not just through her book Do you Have Kids, Life When the Answer is No, but in the many articles she has published, as a World Childless Week Champion and a good friend to many of us. She’s steering a path for all of us and for the future. She’s inspired us along...2021-02-1354 minThe Full StopMaking connections, January 2021We wanted to use this episode to discuss how we’ve had to adapt in this current climate of online communication. Who better than Helen Louise Jones who has been raising our spirits with singing through her Childless Voices project and Chanting Circles. The choir began before lockdown in the UK in March 2020 and she had to quickly adapt the delivery to keep providing support and it’s been growing as a result. She joined us to talk about the power of voices and how it’s helped her to grow too.
We were also delighted to welcome...2021-01-091h 05The Full StopThe Alternative King’s and Queen’s Speech 2020In this episode, we were joined by Sarah Roberts from The Empty Cradle, Stephanie Phillips from World Childless Week, Andy Harrod from Invisible Childlessness with Jody Day from Gateway Women to share our reflections on the year passed and our hopes for 2021.
"It’s almost like we’re starting to claim our space in the culture" Sarah Roberts, The Empty Cradle2020-12-132h 00The Full StopWorthiness, November 2020In this episode, we were joined by our good friend Andy Harrod who is the voice behind Invisible Childlessness. He’s one of many new, powerful contributors to our community as he explores coming to terms with involuntary childlessness through writing and academic study. He’s also part of the Clan of Brothers.
From the start, this episode poses questions about events that lead us to this space called involuntarily childlessness and we do mention infertility treatment.
2020-11-221h 50The Full StopGrief and childlessness, October 2020In this episode, we were joined by artist Helen Segal who is the founder of Empowered Childlessness. Helen shares her inspiring life journey, discussing openly her grief and impact of IVF, and change in her life. It’s an incredible episode and we loved chatting to her, and there’s so much to take away from this.
On 15th October 2020, it’s the Wave of Light for Baby Loss Awareness Week. Helen will be running a free workshop on this date, and a longer one on 26th October. To find out more please visit her website here and al...2020-10-111h 24The Full StopLGBTQI+ and childlessness, September 2020In this episode we were joined by Victoria Firth and Meriel Whale as we continue to explore the unheard voices in our community. We wanted to learn about what it means to be LGBTQI+ and involuntarily childless. Please join Michael and Berenice on this powerful and moving episode with our two amazing guests.
Trigger: This episode discusses alternative parenting including adoption and IVF.
Victoria is a performer, theatre maker and director, born in Yorkshire in the UK. She makes plays that embrace the physical and playful. ‘How To Be Amazingly Happy’ was shown at the Edin...2020-09-151h 03The Full StopAgeing Without Children, August 2020In this episode, we were joined by Kirsty Woodard, a leading figure in raising awareness in ageing without children and founder of Ageing Well Without Children, Ming Ho, a screenwriter who writes, speaks, and campaigns on dementia and carer issues at Dementia Just Ain’t Sexy and Denise Jackson, a experienced carer and only child.
Please go to our website for show notes and more information
2020-08-161h 15The Full StopFacing Up To Change, July 2020"Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced." James Baldwin
Trigger: motherhood and birth are briefly mentioned in this episode.
Our community has heart. The warm welcome and kind words that we’ve heard in response to the many incredible stories of pain, recovery and hope from our guests never fails to move us. We know that there is a lot of compassion in our audience, and strength to adapt and change.
The world took a breath at the senseless murder of George Floyd this summer. So...2020-07-122h 06The Full StopCoping using EFT, June 2022In this episode we’re joined by Rosalind Bubb, a therapist and EFT International 'Accredited Certified Master EFT Trainer’. Rosalind has been volunteering her skills to NHS workers during the Covid-19 pandemic. In this episode she shares her story with us, and guides us through an EFT Tapping Session and we hope you’ll join in.
You can find out more about EFT and Rosalind’s work at her website
On our website we have a video where Rosalind talks us through the technique, you can watch this here
2020-06-2159 minThe Full StopSingle and childless in a pandemicIn this special episode recorded during lockdown in Spain, UK and Ireland, we reflect on the impact of the Covid-19 coronavirus and our community, with a focus on what it’s like to be single and childless in the pandemic.
We are joined by Rod Silvers, Jody Day with Julie and Joss from Gateway Women.
Trigger: we discuss our journey to childlessness and adult themes.
2020-05-171h 04The Full StopThe Clan of Brothers, men and childlessness, April 2020In this episode Michael, Sarah and Berenice were joined by Dr Robin Hadley, PhD researcher Andy Harrod, Ken Fenton and Kevin Roberts, husband of Sarah Roberts who runs The Empty Cradle.
One of the most rewarding parts of running a regular podcast is that we have many opportunities to meet new and old friends, We were delighted to welcome Andy back onto the show - he joined us on our first men and childlessness episode in August 2019. You can read more about Andy on his website, Decoding Static.
We were also delighted to catch up w...2020-04-191h 13The Full StopFriendship in a time of need, Covid-19 and our community, March 2020We have been checking in daily with each other to make sure we’re okay. We decided that we’d catch up on Zoom and ended up doing an impromptu recording. So here’s Episode 13, recorded on the eve of the UK lockdown. We reflect on the impact of the Covid-19 coronavirus and our community, and Michael tells some stories! We also ask how we can help you through our podcast. Can we use our resources to support your work, mental health… please do tell us.
Please do note that we talk briefly about the impact of ending I...2020-03-251h 27The Full StopAlternative Approaches to Mothering Sunday with Civilla Morgan and Allie Anderson, March 2020Mother’s Day is a day of mixed emotions. We can feel a sense of loss and perhaps conflict too. In this episode, join Michael, Sarah and Berenice in conversation with fellow podcaster, Civilla Morgan (listen to her podcast Childless Not By Choice here) who shares her views on faith, the loss of her mother and how she’s inspiring churches to take a new approach. We welcomed Allie Anderson, a freelance journalist, editor & writer specialising in health to the podcast. She shares her advice on tackling the day and we discuss new activities and… Colin Firth!
You’ll...2020-03-151h 28The Full StopInspiring Stories with Suzan Muir, Feb 2020“Could your concept of who you are be expanded to include the plants and animals around you? Could it include mountains, rain and wind? What would our lives feel like if we started to include non animate elements as part of our family?” Suzan Muir
Join Michael, Sarah and Berenice in conversation with Suzan Muir and hear more about her extraordinary and inspiring life.
To find out more about Suzan’s retreats please visit her website by clicking here
Helpline details
You can find lots of resources in our Toolkit here.
UK: Co...2020-02-1659 minThe Full StopKicking Off with Bibi Lynch, January 2020We hope this wonderful episode with Bibi Lynch, broadcaster and journalist, will inspire you. As many of you will know, Bibi has written and spoken openly in the media about her childless life and received support from many, and attracted critics too. She has lots of wisdom to share and we all came away feeling charged up to tackle life. We hope you feel the same.
We also bring you community news from The Empty Cradle in Australia, a new guide from The Fertility Network UK, details of Words That Heart and a new choir from Helen...2020-01-191h 11The Full StopThe Alternative Kings and Queens Speech, 2019Christmas is hard work at the best of times, but being part of this community only makes it harder. Yes, we get it and that’s why we’ve done something different with episode 8 – The Alternative Kings and Queens speech.
Because as Michael’s mantra says ‘you’re not alone’, and we’ve channelled that into this episode with voices speaking from our community, big and not so big, to support you all. As you’ll hear, the messages are filled with love, support, guidance and most of all, understanding.
Yes, Christmas will never be straightforward fo...2019-12-091h 44The Full StopF**k Festivities, coping during the holiday season, November 2019In this episode Michael, Sarah and Berenice were joined by Emily Scott from IVF Fairness to talk about coping during the holidays. We shared our own experiences of how we manage at times of celebration. Emily chatted to us about good mental health as part of the team at Mind.
2019-11-2052 minThe Full StopThe Full Stop podcast on Mental Health with Meriel WhaleIn this episode Michael, Sarah and Berenice were joined by Meriel Whale to talk about Mental Health as the world pauses to acknowledge World Mental Health Day.
We would like to make you aware that this episode does contain mention of suicide and therefore may not be suitable for everyone to listen to.
Meriel is a counsellor who lives and runs her practice in East Sussex in the UK. She’s a member of Gateway Women and she’s a World Childless Week champion, contributing to diversity and LGBT in our community. She has a Post...2019-10-131h 36The Full StopWorld Childless Week, September 2019This Full Stop podcast episode was almost called ‘how many Champions can you fit in a podcast’! We think we’ve done a cracking job of getting the words of World Childless Week founder Stephanie Phillips and her Champions including our own Michael and Berenice, into this hour-long episode. There’s so much to talk about when it comes to World Childless Week.
For those who don’t know, Stephanie Phillips founded World Childless Week in 2017. It’s an online event to raise awareness and support the childless not by choice community. In its initial week in September 20...2019-09-1557 minThe Full StopMen and Childlessness, August 2019In this episode Michael, Sarah and Berenice were joined by Dr. Robin Hadley, actor and writer Rod Silvers and PhD researcher Andy Harrod.
Robin completed his PhD at Keele University on the subject of involuntarily childless older men. He is in demand by the media thanks to his comprehensive research in an area that holds a personal interest to him. He’s a great friend to Michael and Rod, and we were thrilled he could find time to join us.
Rod Silvers injects honesty and entertainment into the serious subject of male infertility. His personal exp...2019-08-171h 27The Full StopWriting It Out with Tessa Broad and Lesley Pyne, July 2019In this episode we talked about Writing It Out with Tessa Broad who chatted to us about her experiences of writing Dear You and Lesley Pyne, author of Finding Joy Beyond Childlessness. Please head to our website to find out how you can win a copy of Lesley's book.
2019-07-141h 07The Full StopWriting it Down with Lorna Gibb and Annie Kirby, June 2019We are joined by Dr Lorna Gibb who shared her experiences of writing and researching Childless Voices and Dr Annie Kirby, winner of the Asham Award 2005 and author, who spoke to us about plans for her creative writing workshops for our community.
2019-07-141h 08The Full StopSpeaking Out May 2019In this episode, hosts Michael, Sarah and Berenice are joined by Jody Day from Gateway Women to talk about speaking out about infertility and share what it's like to be childless not by choice. Listen to them chat about family, the workplace and the importance of conversation and their personal experiences.
2019-06-081h 20The Full StopMeet the presentersA childless not by choice community podcast. Inspired by you. Featuring you. Made for you.
Find out about our three presenters in our own unique Q&A. We picked five questions to ask each other and came up with five unique answers! There’s a lot of laughs and we hope you’ll find it fun to listen to!
2019-05-2924 min