Different, Not Less: Life Without Children

Welcome to the latest episode of The Fertility Podcast, which is during World Childless Week. If this is your first time listening, welcome. I’m a fertility advocate, a podcaster, and a mum of one. During the last decade of making this podcast, I've shared many stories of people's route to parenthood talking about those who have brought home a baby and also those who haven't as I have always wanted to ensure that whatever you are going through, you can find people who you can relate to. I also have a deep responsibility to include the voices of those who are childless not by choice, as their experiences and the acceptance that comes with revaluating the reproductive story you might have grown up provides such valuable insight.

In this episode, I’m joined by Helen Gallagher, the inspiring voice behind the Happy and Childless podcast. Helen shares her powerful story of navigating grief, identity, and purpose after coming to terms with not having children. We talk about what acceptance really looks like, how the workplace can be more inclusive, and why connection and compassion matter more than ever.

If you’re in this place yourself, or you know someone who is, I hope this conversation helps you feel less alone. And if now is not the right time, that’s okay too. Just remember that when you are ready, there is a whole community out there waiting to welcome you.

What we talk about

• Helen’s experience with involuntary childlessness and why she became an advocate
• How her blog and podcast began as a therapeutic outlet and grew into coaching and workplace support
• The emotional complexity of living in a blended family and grieving a path you never got to walk
• Her journey of self acceptance, healing, and finding purpose after infertility
• The power of community and why connection is vital when you feel isolated
• How workplaces can unintentionally exclude employees who are childless not by choice
• The impact of back to school season and family-focused milestones on the childless community
• The importance of compassion, boundaries, and emotional literacy at work
• What World Childless Week is and why it matters
• Advice for anyone starting to process the idea of stopping fertility treatment
• How Helen now helps others through coaching, podcasting, and advocacy
• You are not alone. One in five women and one in four men do not have children, and most are not by choice.
• Your worth is not defined by parental status.
• Connection, community, and support are everything. There is no shame in seeking help.
• Acceptance takes time. Grief and joy can co-exist.
• Being childless does not mean being joyless. There is purpose and meaning on the other side of loss.

Let’s keep the conversation going

• Listen to Helen’s podcast: Happy and Childless
• Visit World Childless Week to read stories and join the community
• Check out the work of Jody Day (Gateway Women), Jessica Hepburn, Aisha Balisaria, Yvonne John, and Robin Hadley
• DM me anytime on Instagram: @fertilitypoddy
• For support groups, visit Fertility Action

Here's other onspired convesations with The Fertility Podcast archives from people from the CNBC community