Choose The Bear

What if your life doesn’t “click” at 22- and that’s actually the point?In this episode of Choose the Bear, I’m joined by beloved illustrator, author, and creative mentor Lisa Congdon to talk about reinvention, creativity, and the myth that your best years have an expiration date. We start with a little friendly “beef” over her book A Glorious Freedom: Older Women Living Extraordinary Lives (40 is not “older”!), then go deep on what the book really offers: proof that women can begin again, at 40, 50, 70, and beyond.Lisa shares her path from elementary school teacher and education nonprofit leader to becoming a full-time artist in her late 30s, plus the practical, honest stuff that makes change possible: persistence, transferable skills, learning through failure, and getting comfortable with uncomfortable feelings.We also dig into her essential guide Finding Your Artistic Voice, why “practice + failure + practice” is the only real shortcut, how to stop perfectionism from strangling your work, and what it looks like to give fear a bear hug and move forward anyway.And because this is Choose the Bear, we connect it all back to the bigger message: women living whole, joyful lives on their own terms, regardless of relationship status, parenting status, or age.In this episode, we cover:- Why the “figure it out in your 20s” timeline is a lie- Starting a new career later in life (and why it can be an advantage)- The “beginner gap” and why most people quit right before it gets good- Perfectionism vs. becoming an “imperfectionist”- How to work with fear instead of letting it run your life- Finding your voice (in art, writing, activism, life)- Using art as activism + creating change through creativity- Why women in midlife have more power, skill, and wisdomIf you loved this conversation, please like, subscribe, and share, especially with a friend who needs the reminder that it’s not too late.

Comedian, writer, and podcaster Alison Leiby joins Choose the Bear for a wide-ranging, deeply honest conversation about horror movies, feminism, abortion, friendship, and choosing a full life outside of marriage and motherhood.Alison is best known as the co-host of the hit podcast Ruined, where she bravely (and hilariously) listens as horror movies are explained to her so she never has to watch them. She’s also the creator of the acclaimed off-Broadway solo show Oh God, a Show About Abortion, which explores abortion with humor, honesty, and zero shame, and a writer on The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel.In this episode, we talk about:• Why horror is one of the most feminist film genres• The “final girl,” body horror, and why women understand fear differently• How Ruined became a cultural phenomenon• Abortion stories that don’t center shame or tragedy• Why women are still punished for not wanting kids• The pressure to frame childfree women as “sad” or “incomplete”• Friendship, collaboration, and building community outside the nuclear family• Being bad at something new, and why that’s actually the point• Navigating male-dominated industries as a woman• Why women don’t owe marriage, motherhood, or explanationThis conversation is funny, smart, deeply validating, and full of moments that will make you feel seen- whether you love horror, hate horror, are childfree by choice, undecided, or just tired of women being told there’s only one acceptable way to live.🎧 Subscribe for more conversations about single life, independence, feminism, and choosing your own path.Because everything you are is more than enough.

Burlesque icon Dirty Martini joins Choose the Bear for a powerful, hilarious, and deeply inspiring conversation about confidence, creativity, and claiming your body on your own terms. From the Vegas stage with Dita Von Teese to intimate performances around the world, Dirty shares how burlesque became her path to visibility, artistry, and radical self-love.We talk about:✨ How Dirty went from being told she’d “never be a dancer” to becoming a global burlesque star✨ Burlesque as a political act—and why stepping onstage in your body matters✨ Body pride vs. body positivity✨ The magic of seeing real, diverse bodies onstage✨ Advice for beginners who feel scared, uncoordinated, or “not dancer enough”✨ Why taking a burlesque class can transform how you see yourself✨ Gen Z, cringe culture, and the courage to try new things✨ Dirty’s upcoming European tour and her work coaching performersWhether you love burlesque, are burlesque-curious, or just want to feel more powerful in your body, this conversation is a gift.🩸 Guest: Dirty MartiniInstagram: @DirtyMartiniNYC🎙 About Choose the BearA podcast for women building joyful, bold, independent lives—single, childfree, and fully themselves. Hosted by activist and author Kat Calvin.💬 Tell us:What’s one thing you’d try if you weren’t afraid of being “cringe”?

Burlesque isn’t just feathers and striptease, it’s comedy, politics, gender rebellion, and a century of artists rewriting the rules of who gets to be seen.In this episode, Kat Calvin sits down with Dustin Wax, anthropologist and executive director of the Burlesque Hall of Fame, for a masterclass on the real history of burlesque: from Lydia Thompson and Josephine Baker to Lottie the Body, Coby Yee, Jadin Wong, and Marenka.They dig into how burlesque has always played with gender, race, sexuality, drag, and power, and why this “lowbrow” art form is actually a vital archive of queer and feminist history.In this conversation, we talk about:How Dustin went from teaching gender, race, and class to running the Burlesque Hall of FameWhy burlesque is closer to political comedy and theater than to strip clubsThe deep history of gender-bending, drag, and trans performers in burlesqueLegendary performers you should know: Lydia Thompson, Josephine Baker, Coby Yee, Lottie the Body, Jadin Wong, Marenka, and moreHow burlesque intersected with Motown, Hollywood, and the music industryWild and wonderful artifacts from the museum: Gypsy Rose Lee’s trunk and pin cushion, Dita Von Teese’s martini glass, an 8-foot devil head, and moreThe bizarre and repressive laws and censorship rules that shaped what performers could wear (and take off)How anti-drag laws also threaten burlesque—and why Dustin thinks the future of burlesque is more queer, angry, and defiant than everWhy we need way more movies, books, and TV series about burlesque legendsAbout my guestDustin Wax is an anthropologist and the executive director of the Burlesque Hall of Fame, an organization dedicated to preserving, celebrating, and inspiring the art of burlesque. Through archives, artifacts, exhibits, and community events, the Burlesque Hall of Fame keeps the stories of performers, famous and unsung, alive.👉 Learn more: burlesquehall.com👉 Follow the Burlesque Hall of Fame on Instagram & YouTube (links in show notes)If you liked this episode…You’ll also love my other burlesque conversations with modern legends like Perle Noire and next week's surprise guest, where we talk about healing, body sovereignty, and the power of performance for women and queer communities.About Choose the BearChoose the Bear is a podcast about women who choose their own path—often single, often childfree, always bold. We talk to artists, activists, athletes, scientists, and weirdos (the very best kind) about building a life on your own terms.🔔 Subscribe for more conversations on independence, art, gender, politics, and joy.👍 If this episode taught you something new about burlesque, please like, comment, and share it with a burlesque lover or theater nerd in your life.Hashtags#Burlesque #BurlesqueHistory #BurlesqueHallOfFame #DustinWax #QueerHistory #FeministHistory #Drag #GenderStudies #ChooseTheBear

Burlesque icon Perle Noire joins Choose the Bear for a luminous, soul-level conversation about the power of burlesque as an art form, a healing practice, and a path to personal liberation.Perle shares her journey from discovering burlesque to becoming one of the most celebrated performers and teachers in the world. We talk about how burlesque can help women reclaim their bodies, pleasure, confidence, and voice, and how this art form can be a powerful tool for emotional healing, creativity, and self-ownership.If you’ve ever been curious about burlesque, the history behind it, or why it resonates so deeply with women, especially women choosing bold, independent lives, this episode will light you up.In this episode:✨ Perle Noire’s extraordinary career in burlesque✨ How burlesque can be a practice of healing and self-transformation✨ Reclaiming the body and feminine power✨ Why burlesque is an art form made for women✨ The connection between sensuality, confidence, and liberation✨ The joy and discipline behind burlesque performance✨ What it means to honor yourself through movement, ritual, and artABOUT PERLE NOIREPerle Noire is a world-renowned burlesque performer, choreographer, and mentor known for her powerful stage presence, artistic innovation, and deep commitment to healing through movement. She has inspired thousands of women through her workshops, performances, and her signature healing-through-burlesque methodology.ABOUT CHOOSE THE BEARChoose the Bear is a podcast for bold, independent, single or childfree women who are building full, joyful, meaningful lives on their own terms. Hosted by author and activist Kat Calvin.If you loved this episode, please like, subscribe, and share—it helps the movement grow.

This week, podcast royalty herself, Gillian Pensavalle, joins me for one of the most expansive, hilarious, and honest conversations we’ve ever had on Choose the Bear. We talk about her decade-long run with The Hamilcast, building a true-crime empire with  @TrueCrimeObsessedPodcast  , why women do all the emotional (and investigative) labor in true crime, and how podcasting becomes a business—not just a hobby.We also go deep into being joyfully child-free, shedding the guilt women are taught to carry, navigating misogyny in public spaces, and what we both think true crime can teach women about safety, boundaries, autonomy, and choosing yourself.If you’ve ever loved a podcast, questioned a documentary, considered a background check on a first date (please do), or wondered how women keep holding the world together—this episode is for you.Want to share your story? [email protected]

Cosplayer and designer CutiePieSensei ( @TheRealCutiepiesensei ) joins Kat to talk armor builds, creative process, and why cosplay is one of the most empowering spaces for women and Black nerds. Jasmine shares how a campus con sparked a decade of making, how she breaks a costume into parts, and the mindset that keeps her work joyful. She opens up about dealing with racism online, choosing humor and boundaries, and why in-person conventions are still the best place to start.We dig into FiraxWear, her pop culture fashion brand, and how she blends concept art with sewing to create stylish pieces that do not feel like basic merch. Jasmine offers clear advice for first timers, how not to bite off more than you can chew, and why you should try cosplay at least once.In this episode:What cosplay is and why cons feel so goodBreaking down a build from reference to materialsHandling negativity without losing your joyRepresentation and the rise of Black women in cosplayHow Fear Aware began and where it is goingPractical starter tips for newbiesWhy dressing as a hero can change how you see yourselfIf you enjoyed this conversation, subscribe, comment, and share with a friend who needs a little nerdy courage. New episodes weekly on Choose the Bear.

Motorsports broadcaster Amanda Busick joins Kat to talk about how she went from unpaid internships and waiting tables to becoming one of the most recognizable reporters in racing. She shares the Weston Workman first-win moment, why timing and preparation matter, and how trust with drivers turns interviews into real storytelling.We dig into the Women with Drive Summit in Indianapolis, the rise of women across motorsports, and the tension between popularity and craft in modern media. Amanda walks through a full race week, from research calls to garage conversations to post-race hits, and explains why drivers are absolutely athletes. New to racing? She offers a simple starter guide for finding your series and your favorite drivers.In this episode:Breaking into a male dominated field without connectionsBuilding credibility with drivers and crewsWomen with Drive Summit and growing communityPrep routines for NASCAR and NHRA weekendsDrivers as athletes, fitness and recoveryDrive to Survive, F1 buzz, and how it helps the whole sportPractical advice for young women aiming for on air rolesIf you enjoyed this conversation, subscribe, comment, and share with a friend who loves fast cars and great journalism. Follow Amanda @amandabusick on Instagram.New episodes weekly on Choose the Bear.

Happy Halloween and welcome to a special episode with singer-songwriter Allie Colleen. We talk about growing up on country classics, why she set out to make textured, emotionally honest music, and how her new work captures more of who she is as an artist. Allie shares the story behind Sincerely Rolling Stone, the power of songs like Halos and Horns and Back in the Saddle, and why she is patiently building a real community of fans in Nashville.We get into independence versus labels, mental health in the industry, the art of failing forward with her manager Bev, and how showing up creates true connection. Allie also opens up about her influences from Amy Lee and Three Days Grace to Jodie Messina and Trisha Yearwood, plus the Nashville friendships that keep her inspired.If you enjoy the conversation, tap subscribe, leave a comment, and share the episode with a friend who loves country music.In this episode:Finding a personal sonic identity and “textured” countryWriting from intention and turning big feelings into lyricsThe Nashville community and why showing up mattersStaying independent while planning for scaleMental health, boundaries, and sustainable careers for women in countryMusical influences and current artists Allie lovesFeatured music mentioned:Halos and HornsBack in the SaddleSincerely Rolling Stone (LP)Follow Allie:YouTube Instagram @alliecolleenmusicTikTok @alliecolleen New episodes weekly. Thanks for listening to Choose the Bear.

Journalist and author Marissa R. Moss (Her Country) joins Kat to dig into the gender and race politics of country music: why country radio still matters in 2025, how the industry keeps women and Black artists off the air, and what it will take to change Nashville’s power structure. We talk Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter, Taylor Swift's move from country to Pop, Mickey Guyton’s “Black Like Me,” Maren Morris’s exit from the Nashville machine, the erasure of Black and Latino roots in country, and why the genre keeps pushing its best women to pop, rock, or Americana. Marissa also shares a sneak peek at her new ’90s-rock book and shouts out new women artists you should be playing this week.In this episode:• Country radio’s outsized influence today• The Nashville “family” myth and the boys’-club loop• How women get labeled “too political” for telling the truth• Black roots in country and the ongoing gatekeeping• Southern rock/Americana as a workaround to Music Row• Artists to watch: Carter Faith, Kelsey Waldon, Caitlin Butts, Kaylee Hammack, Jillian Jacqueline, Cam• Marissa’s newsletter: Don’t Rock the Inbox- https://www.dontrocktheinbox.com/• Marissa's big Rolling Stone article- https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-country/inside-country-radios-dark-secret-history-of-sexual-harassment-and-misconduct-253573/If you enjoyed this: rate/review the show, share it with a friend, and tag us so we can repost. Want to share your story? [email protected]

Comedian, writer, and facilitator Amma Marfo joins Kat to talk about her hour-long special Fidget Spinster—a hilarious, thoughtful look at being single by choice, living with anxiety, and building a joyful life that doesn’t orbit dating or marriage. We dig into why women flock to trustworthy celeb crushes (hi, Pedro Pascal), how comedy still sidelines single women’s stories, and practical ways to start scary new things without perfectionism. We also get into Amma’s book Cultivating Creativity, resilience vs. “grit,” first-gen students, and building community as a single adult.Watch Amma’s special (Fidget Spinster) and follow her work.If you enjoy this episode, don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe. And don't forget, everything you are is more than enough.Questions? Want to tell your story? [email protected]

Alyssa Carson, astrobiologist, PhD student, and aspiring astronaut, joins Kat Calvin to talk about the real path to space and why Mars is more than a dream. Alyssa breaks down astrobiology “like you’re five,” shares what astronaut selection actually looks like (hint: astronaut is a destination, not a job), and explains how Moon and Mars missions fuel everyday innovations on Earth. They also dig into Artemis timelines, the boom in private space, and dozens of non-astronaut careers in space, from psychology and human factors to food science and habitat design.You’ll hear:How a kid’s fascination with Mars became a serious scientific careerPilot licenses, scuba, and other training- what helps and what’s just hypeAstrobiology 101: icy moons, methane seas, and the search for microbial lifeWhy funding the Moon/Mars push pays off on Earth (food, radiation shielding, tech)Artemis updates and realistic odds for a crewed Mars missionSpace jobs beyond “astronaut” (and why teams beat heroes)Women who paved Alyssa’s way, and the power of a great dad & support systemPractical advice for big, “impossible” goals at any ageAlyssa's Book: Ready for Liftoff Watch next: Franchesca Ramsey If this episode inspired you, please like, share, and subscribe. And remember, everything you are is more than enough.Questions? Want to tell your story? ⁠[email protected]

Franchesca Ramsey, comedian, actress, writer, and accidental activist, joins Kat Calvin for the Season 2 premiere of Choose the Bear. From her viral hit Shit White Girls Say to Black Girls to her recent Leopards Ate My Face song, Franchesca has spent 20 years turning comedy into a tool for social change.In this episode, she and Kat talk about:Why women are so drawn to true crimeThe highs and lows of going viral—then vs. nowHow comedy and satire help us survive political upheavalThe rise of family vloggers and the dangers of child exploitation onlineWhy friendships deserve the same priority as romantic relationshipsHer joyful podcast Let Me Fix It and the work of sustaining communityWhether you know her from The Nightly Show, her bestselling book Well, That Escalated Quickly, or her unforgettable viral videos, you’ll love hearing Franchesca’s wisdom, wit, and warmth.Leopards Ate My FaceShit White Girls Say to Black GirlsWell, That Escalated QuicklyIf you enjoy this episode, don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe. And don't forget, everything you are is more than enough.Questions? Want to tell your story? ⁠[email protected]

In this episode, Kat sits down with Ivelyse Andino, Afro-Latina founder of Radical Health, the first Latina-owned public benefit corp in New York focused on health equity. They talk about what it means to build a healthcare system centered in justice, the power of community conversations, and how Ivelyse’s personal story led her to create a company that’s transforming how people—especially marginalized communities—access care.From tackling medical mistrust to creating tech that empowers rather than extracts, this conversation is all about reclaiming health, joy, and voice. Tune in for an inspiring look at what it means to build something radical—and deeply human.Thanks for listening to Season 1 of Choose the Bear. We'll be on a break until Season 2 returns in October!

What happens when outdated laws and stigma collide with your most personal truths? In this powerful episode, activist Robert Suttle shares his story of being prosecuted under Louisiana’s HIV criminalization laws—and how that conviction shaped his experience of dating, intimacy, and identity as a gay Black man in the South. We talk about what it means to build a full life after incarceration, how HIV laws perpetuate injustice, and why living single can be a radical act of freedom.Follow Robert on Instagram at @suttlevision and learn more about the fight to end HIV criminalization.Questions? Want to share your story? [email protected]

In this powerful episode, I sit down with Allie Redhorse Young, writer, organizer, and founder of Protect the Sacred, to talk about navigating single life, identity, and activism as a Navajo woman. We explore the cultural perceptions of being unmarried and childfree in Indigenous communities, the epidemic of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, and how Allie is empowering Native youth through civic engagement and storytelling.This is an unflinching, deeply personal conversation about honoring your roots while forging your own path.Allie's Elle article about missing Native women.Questions or want to share your story? [email protected]

In part two of our homebuying series, we’re heading to Knoxville with realtor Aimee Lee Lucas, who shares her inspiring journey from single mom to successful homeowner to helping other women do the same. We talk about what single women should know before buying a home, how to build a supportive real estate team, and why homeownership is still possible—even in today’s market. Whether you’re dreaming of your first home or just starting to think about it, this episode is packed with practical tips, personal insight, and the kind of encouragement we all need.If you've ever wondered whether you can do this on your own, Aimee’s story says: yes, you absolutely can.Questions or what to share your story? [email protected]

In this powerful episode, author and advocate Adrienne Spires shares her journey of surviving domestic violence and how she found the strength to leave and rebuild. We discuss why leaving abusive relationships is so difficult, the emotional and systemic barriers survivors face, and how Adrienne transformed her trauma into a life of service to others. Her memoir, Roaring Resilience: Finding Grit in the Lion’s Den, is a testament to courage, healing, and the power of voice. Whether you're a survivor, an advocate, or someone seeking to understand, this conversation is raw, inspiring, and deeply important.Want to share your story? [email protected]

What does it look like to travel the world as a confident, solo, childfree woman—and build a thriving social media presence while doing it? This week on Choose the Bear, I’m joined by Lauren Urasek, solo travel expert, childfree lifestyle advocate, and social media powerhouse. We dive into the joys (and challenges) of traveling alone, the magic of traveling with other women, and how Lauren built a bold, unapologetic brand that inspires thousands.Whether you're plotting your first solo adventure or dreaming of turning your lifestyle into a platform, this episode is packed with real talk, laughs, and actionable tips for embracing your freedom and living life on your own terms.In this episode, we cover:How to feel empowered traveling alone as a womanThe best part of traveling with fellow solo womenNavigating friendships and dating as a childfree womanGrowing a social media brand around authenticityWhy choosing the solo path is anything but lonelyReady to ditch the rulebook and live boldly? Hit play.Want to share your story? [email protected]

When I was buying my house I watched all of Jordan Nutter's tiktoks at least three times. Her hilarious skits about nightmare homebuyers and great information about how mortgages work and how to get one were a lifesaver. So I was absolutely thrilled when Jordan agreed to be on the pod! We had a great chat about how mortgages work, why buying a house isn't as unrealistic as you think, and those hilarious tiktok skits. Want to share your story? [email protected]

In this episode of Choose the Bear, I talk with historian and bestselling author Tilar J. Mazzeo about one of my long-time heroes: Barbe-Nicole Clicquot Ponsardin, better known as The Widow Clicquot.Tilar’s book, The Widow Clicquot, first introduced me to this visionary 19th-century businesswoman who revolutionized the champagne industry—and changed the way I think about legacy and independence. We dive into Barbe-Nicole’s story, Tilar’s writing journey, and other incredible women from history you may not know (yet!).I highly recommend The Widow Clicquot for your next book club—it’s the kind of inspiration that makes you want to build your own empire.💌 Have a question or want to share your single story? Email me at [email protected]

In this episode of Choose the Bear, I’m joined by writer, director, producer, actor, and writer Delaney Buffett to talk about her incredible new film Adult Best Friends, now streaming on Max.This is the first movie I’ve seen that truly explores so many of the themes we talk about on this podcast: the evolution of female friendship, giving your friends grace as you grow, and what it means to navigate different life stages while still showing up for one another. We also get into the creative process, solo working life, and yes—Zooming into work from bed.Grab your girlfriends and stream Adult Best Friends—this one’s made for us.💌 Have a question or want to share your single story? Email me at [email protected]

In this episode of Choose the Bear, I talk with Florence Wlodarski, founder of Parallel Social Club—a vibrant new community designed for SINKs (single income, no kids) and DINKs (dual income, no kids).We chat about how Florence built the social club we’ve all been waiting for, her vision for a more connected solo-living culture, and why intentional community matters now more than ever. Whether you’re single, childfree, or simply seeking meaningful adult connection, this episode will leave you inspired.💌 Have a question or want to share your single story? Email me at [email protected]

In this episode of Choose the Bear, I talk with Jeremy Ney—data journalist and creator of American Inequality—about maternal mortality in the United States. We dig into both the encouraging trends and the sobering truths behind maternal health outcomes, especially for women of color.Jeremy’s research offers a critical look at the systemic inequalities impacting maternal mortality and what can actually be done to address them. This conversation is eye-opening, data-driven, and incredibly important.Follow up by reading his two must-read articles on maternal mortality at American Inequality, and be sure to subscribe for more powerful reporting.💌 Have a question or want to share your single story? Email me at [email protected]

In this episode of Choose the Bear, I’m joined by my dear friend Kenyora Johnson—CEO of End Rape on Campus, fearless advocate, and powerful leader in the fight to end campus sexual assault.We talk about the realities of sexual violence on college campuses (TW), how universities can better protect students, and how friendship, community, and grace have supported Kenyora through major life transitions.This conversation is courageous, deeply personal, and full of insight for anyone passionate about justice, healing, and women’s leadership.💌 Have a question or want to share your single story? Email me at [email protected]

In this episode of Choose the Bear, I talk with Abby Reyes—activist, climate justice leader, and author of the powerful new memoir Truth Demands: A Memoir of Murder, Oil Wars, and the Rise of Climate Justice.We explore how Abby transformed personal tragedy into global activism, the devastating impact of climate change and Big Oil on Indigenous communities, and her journey as a woman rising into leadership and purpose. Her story is urgent, emotional, and deeply inspiring.If you're interested in environmental justice, Indigenous rights, or powerful stories of personal and political transformation, this is a must-listen episode.💌 Have questions or want to share your single story? Email me at [email protected]

In this episode of Choose the Bear, I talk with Kathleen Moss—a powerful voice and advocate who shares her breast cancer journey with honesty and heart. Kathleen speaks openly about living with a mastectomy, navigating life after diagnosis, and how she found joy and purpose, including adopting a foster child as a single mother. Her story is one of resilience, empowerment, and choosing your own path through hardship.You can follow her writing at A Breast Cancer Diary on Substack: https://abreastcancerdiary.substack.comQuestions? Want to share your single story? [email protected]

In this episode of Choose the Bear, I sit down with Shani Silver—one of the original voices redefining single life. Shani is the creator of the legendary podcast A Single Serving, author of the game-changing book A Single Revolution, and writer of two insightful Substacks about solo living and self-worth.We dive into reframing singlehood, practicing self-forgiveness, and what it means to build a life that’s tailored to being single—not waiting for it to end. It’s a smart, honest, and inspiring conversation that left me with a full page of notes (and a full heart).Explore more of Shani’s work: https://shanisilver.substack.com💌 Want to share your story or ask a question? Email me at [email protected]

Our second London episode! It was so fun to chat with Radhika Sanghani about her fantastic books, her incredible writing career, and her experience with total honesty. This is a great episode to inspire you to write that book you've been dreaming about or learn how to combine your passions to blend them seamlessly into your life. Enjoy!Questions? Want to share your story? Email [email protected]'t forget to rate and review!

Hello from London! I was so lucky to hang out with Charlie Bonner while I was in London and we recorded this episode while having tea in my room at Soho House like proper English podcasters. Charlie is a brilliant activist and publicist who made a huge move Texas to London and is now living a fabulous life with lots of biscuits and gay mens choiring. Charlie is better at building community than almost anyone I have ever met and this is such a fun conversation about how you can change your life, make new friends, and find joy wherever you are, or maybe across the pond. I hope you enjoy!Questions? Want to share your story? [email protected]'t forget to rate and review!

Let's talk about money! Single and childfree people have specific concerns when it comes to living on a single income, saving for retirement, and so much more. Luckily, Dr. Jay Zigmont is the expert when it comes to childfree money and he kindly joined our pod to give us some tips and advice. I can't recommend his book enough, The Childfree Guide to Life and Money, and I hope you'll enjoy this podcast and share it with anyone who could use some good money advice!Don't forget to rate and review!Questions? Want to share your story? [email protected].

Dulce Vasquez is a bright, energetic presence, a courageous woman who took the plunge to run for office, and an inspirational figure who is truly living her best DINK life. It was so much fun talking to Dulce and I hope this episode inspires you. This is a great one to share with anyone who may need some inspiration to start living their best life!Questions? Want to share your story? Email [email protected].

This week we're talking about national security and why we need more women and people from disinvested communities (a Laurenism that I have stolen!) in national security with CEO of Girl Security, Lauren Bean Buitta. We also talk about how we define national security and the extremely cool art exhibition they sponsored, What We Carry. Donate to Girl Security!Questions? Want to share your story? Email [email protected].

I was so thrilled to speak with author and lovely human Nicole Louie, whose new book Others Like Me, tells the stories of childfree women all over the world. It's a wonderful look at how many different paths have lead to women choosing the childfree life. I hope you enjoy this episode and definitely buy Nicole's book!Don't forget to rate and review!Questions? Want to tell your story? [email protected]

Dr. Dennis is a childfree educator and researcher whose expertise in childfree life, pro-natalism in the Black community, and so much more made for a really fascinating conversation. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did! Questions? Want to share your story? [email protected]

Chanel Dubofsky is a writer and journalist who has written powerful pieces about life as a childfree Jewish woman. We have a great conversation about her life, reactions to her work, and there's a lot of talk about books! Questions? Want to share your story? [email protected]

Today's guest has the best name for her organization ever. Dr. Angela L. Harris's No Bibs Burps Bottles brings together childfree Black women for community and support. This interview was so joyful and fun and I highly recommend keeping up the good times by listening to her podcast! Questions? Want to share your story? [email protected]

Five years ago, Kerry Graham wrote a viral HuffPo piece "No I Don't Want to Have Kids and I'm Tired of Having to Explain Why Not". Today, she has learned a number of life lessons and has words of wisdom for us all. Kerry is so fun and lovely and I hope you find some joy and inspiration from this episode. We talk about Litsy in this episode. It is the only good social media. Questions? Want to share your story? [email protected]

If you're single, there's a good chance you have read The Single Supplement, Nicola Slawson's excellent substack. Lucky for us, she has finally written a book! Single comes out on February 11th (2025 for anyone reading this from the future... or past...) and it is really really good. I couldn't put it down and you won't be able to either. I hope you enjoy this conversation with Nicola and then preorder her book for yourself and everyone you know! Questions? Want to share your story? [email protected]

A therapist who helps people decide if they want children? It's a thing! Today we are talking to Margaret O'Connor, an Irish therapist who does just that. We talk about the people she counsels, how they are weighing their decisions, and what she has learned along the way. Check out Margaret's podcast, The Are Kids For Me Podcast. Questions? Want to share your story? [email protected]

An interview with one of my favorite people! Ross Morales-Rocketto is a brilliant organizer and a wonderfully kind man who is exactly the kind of man we want other men to be. LUCKILY, he exploring the big questions about what is wrong with men and how we can save them and I, for one, am grateful that he is taking on that challenge. In this convo we talk about what the heck is going on with men, how we got here, and how we can save them. Questions? Want to share your story? [email protected]

Today's fiery guest is the German writer and childfree activist Verena Brunschweiger. We discuss her book, Do Childfree People Have Better Sex, her experiences of discrimination when she came out as childfree, and how childfree people fare in extremely pro-natalist Germany. This was a fun and passionate conversation. Questions? Want to tell your story? [email protected]

Being a woman in the workplace is tough and now there is a book to tell us why, and, more importantly, that we are not alone. Amy Diehl and Leanne Dzubinksi's new book, Glass Walls, is infuriating and informational and our conversation covers the challenges women face in the workplace and how we can fight them. Send this episode to every woman you know! Find Amy HERE. Find Leanne HERE. Questions? Want to share your story? [email protected]. And don't forget to LEAVE A REVIEW!

It's data time! Today's guests, Drs. Jennifer Watling Neal and Zachary Neal, are trailblazing childfree researchers and their findings blew. my. mind. In this ep we discuss their groundbreaking research on childfree adults in America, numbers, perceptions, opportunities, and so much more. This was a truly great conversation with huge implications for the future of childfree people and the country. Find Jennifer HERE. Find Zach HERE. Questions? Want to tell your story? [email protected]. And don't forget to LEAVE A REVIEW!

Population can be a sensitive subject but Nandita Bajaj, Executive Director of Population Balance, discusses the subject with intelligence, empathy, and deep introspection. In this episode we discuss how her upbringing in India impacted her beliefs about children and population, pronatalism and climate change, and the incredible work that she and her organization are doing. Learn more about Population Balance and find their podcasts HERE. Questions? Want to share your story? [email protected]. And don't forget to LEAVE A REVIEW!

As soon as I read the work that Dominique Fluker, Lifestyle Editor for ESSENCE Magazine, has been writing about living single, I knew I had to have her on the pod. In this epsidoe we talk about her articles about being Boy Sober and putting out "wifey energy", the joys of being free to travel, and how being happily single does not mean being anti-marriage. Dominique is a great example of how to live a fun and fulfilling solo life and I think you'll be inspired by her story. Follow Dominique HERE. Read Dominique's work HERE.

Today's pod features the marvelous Meghan Keane, creator of one of my favorite podcasts, ⁠NPR's Life Kit⁠, and author of the absolutely wonderful new book Party of One. We talk about how great single life is, how to combat psychological traps like overthinking, and all things living solo. Find Meghan at @damekeane. Buy Party of One ⁠HERE⁠.

We've all been to the doctor, so we know how terrible it can be, especially as a woman. Luckily, today's guest is Dr. Kristyn Brandi, an absolute hero who is working hard to ensure that everyone has access to just and compassionate medical care. Dr. Brandi answered so many of my questions about access to contraception, the Black maternal mortality crisis, why doctors are such jerks, and more. Dr. Brandi recommended the following organizations for anyone who wants to support the important work of increasing access to compassionate care and reproductive health for all: ⁠American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists⁠ ⁠Physicians for Reproductive Health⁠ ⁠Medical Students for Choice⁠ Questions? Want to share your story? Email [email protected].

Therese Shechter is a feminist, boundary-pushing documentary filmmaker whose film My So-Called Selfish Life is an entertaining, honest portrayal of childfree life. This conversation spans a wide variety of subjects and is hopefully an inspirational and educational journey for everyone. We reference Culture Study which is so very good and you should definitely subscribe. Have questions or want to share your story? [email protected]

Karen Leong is an Australian It girl journalist, model, and FOMO inducing creator who wrote an article for RUSSH that stopped me in my tracks. In this ep we talk about femicide and gender based violence (TW), what responsibility the government has in protecting women, and how we begin to imagine a femme-centric future.