Welcome 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 this caring role. This might be a challenging listen for some of our audience. (Members of our online community can carry on the discussion in our safe space.)

Download the transcript

In 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.

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.

We 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 acknowledging childlessness in the International Women’s Day narrative

• Breaking stereotypes and gender roles in society

• How men can be allies and support gender equality

• The historical and modern-day challenges we face in being heard and valued

Connect with Anne Altamore on LinkedIn for helpful posts on childlessness and workplace inclusivity, You can follow her on Instagram and Facebook too. Anne is a postgraduate degree qualified counsellor holding a Masters in Counselling and Psychotherapy and experienced in supporting grief of involuntary childlessness with many communities - CALD, heterosexual men and women as well as in the LGBTQIA+ community.

Join in the conversation in our Full Stop online community for childless people from £5 a month with a free month on us

Buy a Virtual Coffee to keep our podcast free to air and accessible to everyone.

Download Finding Connections, a booklet by Sarah and Berenice with links to groups, books, events and other resources for childless people. We hope you find it helpful.

Join our newsletter for behind the scenes info, wellbeing tips and news from the wider community and alerts to our podcast as it publishes direct to your inbox.

Access the Transcript