"I Didn't Take Action”: Unpacking the Complexity of Childless By Circumstance

If you’ve ever silently carried the weight of “I didn’t do enough” on your path to motherhood—this episode is for you. Dr. Gail Miller explores the complex emotions behind being childless not by choice. In this heartfelt conversation, she sheds light on the quiet grief many women carry—especially those whose path to childlessness was shaped by timing, health struggles, or other life circumstances beyond their control. In this episode, you’ll discover: Why the phrase “I didn’t take action” often masks deep pain and societal pressure The many valid, untold journeys to involuntary childlessness How to release shame and self-blame, and begin healing The importance of validating your experience—even when others don’t This conversation is honest, healing, and deeply human. Gail reminds us that pain doesn’t require permission—and that your experience is valid, no matter how it unfolded. If you’re ready to let go of the “what ifs” and reclaim your peace, you’ll want to listen in. Let’s move onward—together. Subscribe now for real talk, compassion, and hope delivered every Tuesday. Resources:Finding You: Beyond Motherhood Group Coaching Program coming soon! Join the waitlist: https://path-onward.kit.com/8d4b621a3b Free Support Group: https://pathonward.com/support-group/Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/whenbeingchildlessisntbychoice/ Stay connected with us:Dr. Gail Miller: https://pathonward.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/childlesspathonward/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pathonwardlifecoaching Full transcript and more: https://pathonward.com/55-i-didnt-take-action-unpacking-the-complexity-of-childless-by-circumstance/

Om Podcasten

A moment comes when the realization hits that this is what it is, yet we don’t want to deal with that reality. We’re feeling all these feelings that are uncomfortable; the pain, the grief, the loneliness. We sit with it all and then, at some point, we wonder “what do I do with this?” and “how do I find meaning?” You can understand the grief AND want to move on while carrying it. This isn’t about squashing the grief - that’s not possible. It’s about moving onward on a new path, creating a fulfilling life and honoring that grief. This podcast delves into the often overlooked but deeply significant experience of living life as a woman who is childless not by choice. There are many ways to reach this point - being childless after infertility is only one road. Often circumstances other than unsuccessful fertility treatments bring us to the point of unwanted childlessness. Whatever your path has been though, your pain and all the other difficult emotions are valid. Now what do you do with it all? Your life doesn’t have to be defined by the pain of childlessness. You create your own narrative. Through candid discussions and personal stories, my podcast offers insights, support, and guidance for navigating this unique path in life and thriving.