In this special extended episode, we explore the complex decision of whether or not to have children through intimate conversations with parents, step-parents, and those who have chosen to be child-free. Our guests share their personal journeys, fears, joys, and wisdom around one of life's biggest choices.

Key Topics Discussed:

● The shift from seeing parenthood as a default path to a conscious choice

● How different people come to their decision about having children

● Addressing fears and societal pressures around both choices

● Finding purpose and meaning with or without children

● Making intentional choices rather than following expectations

Featuring conversations with:

● Caitlin Greaves (New mother)

● Megan Vasko (Founder of No Kidding, Child Free in Edinburgh, a thriving community of over 1,000 child-free women fostering connection and friendship)

● Peter Clark (Father of two)

● Dr. Elizabeth Cripps (Senior lecturer in Political Theory at the University of Edinburgh and author of "Parenting on Earth: A Philosopher's Guide to Doing Right by Your Kids and Everyone Else")

● Camila Das Gupta (Child-free by choice)

● Litzi Essler (Producer)

● Jan and Mike Thompson (Parents with grown children)

Caitlin’s 4 Ps to Consider When Exploring Whether To Have Kids:

1. Practicalities - Discussing concrete aspects like finances, parental policies at work, and lifestyle considerations.
2. Personal values (around parenting) - Exploring views on discipline, family involvement, and how parenting styles would mesh together.
3. Priorities (for life) - Examining what's important in life overall (like travel, relationships, career) and how children would fit or wouldn't fit into that picture.
4. Prophesising - Walking through what life might look like in 5, 10, 15 years, both with and without children, considering each path's positives and potential challenges.

Links mentioned in the episode:

● No Kidding, Child Free in Edinburgh facebook page

● Dr. Elizabeth Cripps' book "Parenting on Earth"

● Gabor Maté’s Instagram page

Connect With Our Host, Alice Thompson, through her Instagram, LinkedIn or check out her coaching services and resources on her website

Connect With Our Producer, Litzi Essler, through LinkedIn

Connect With Our Artist, Duncan Peace of Peace Signs, through his Instagram