“I’m child-free by choice at age 43.” (Nitika Chopra)

Living life child-free by choice in her 40s. Join us as we sit down with the remarkable Nitika Chopra—an advocate for those living with chronic illnesses, a podcast host, and the founder of Chronicon. In today’s episode, Nitika and I have an engaging and heartfelt discussion about her chronic illnesses and her decision to live a child-free lifestyle. Nitika shares the personal impact of her chronic illnesses on this choice and not only do we unpack the challenges of living with severe skin issues, arthritis, and myasthenia gravis triggered by COVID-19, but we also address the societal expectations and pressures surrounding a person’s decision not to have children. Nitika's decision to remain child-free is not only influenced by her health but also by her evolving perspectives on motherhood. We explore her thoughts on freezing eggs, the cultural expectations she navigates, and the reactions she got from her friends and family when she shared this decision. Nitika's longing for connection, her recent re-entry into the dating world, and her vision for the future add depth to this rich narrative. Finally, she introduces us to Chronicon's community membership—a supportive space for individuals with chronic illnesses—highlighting the importance of connection and understanding. Join us for an episode that celebrates diverse paths to a fulfilling life and emphasizes the value of self-awareness and respect for personal choices. Follow Nitika: https://www.instagram.com/nitikachopra  Sponsors: Dreamland Baby: New and existing customers can go to dreamlandbabyco.com and enter code REALSTUFF at checkout to receive 30% off pajamas + free shipping.  Watch this episode in video form on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLjmevEcbh5h5FEX0pazPEtN86t7eb2OgX  To apply to be a guest on the show, visit luciefink.com/apply and send us your story.  I also want to extend a special thank you to East Love for the show's theme song, Rolling Stone.  Follow the show on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealstuffpod  Find Lucie here:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/luciebfink/  TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@luciebfink  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/luciebfink  Website: https://luciefink.com/  Produced by Cloud10 and Clamor.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Om Podcasten

The Real Stuff is a weekly podcast series hosted by Lucie Fink who has spent the past decade getting curious and creating engaging and educational content for an audience of millions. On this show, you won’t hear your favorite guests talk about things they typically share — rather, Lucie pulls them deep into some of the world’s most taboo topics, asking intensely personal questions about sex, money, and mental health, all in an effort to help you feel less alone as you navigate through the world. And the best part: we want to invite YOU onto the show. Apply to call in as an anonymous guest at luciefink.com/apply. Pop in your voyeuristic headphones, or call in and spill your secrets! Visit Lucie on Instagram (@luciebfink) and find the show across social media @therealstuffpod.