Childless And Moving Onward
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.
Episodes

2 days ago
2 days ago
If you’ve ever felt judged for a life you didn’t choose—this episode is for you.
In Episode 58, Dr. Gail Miller opens with a quote that hits home: “Don’t let anyone who hasn’t been in your shoes tell you how to tie your laces.” From there, she dives into a powerful conversation about empathy, boundaries, and self-trust for women who are childless not by choice.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
How unsolicited advice often invalidates lived experience—and why it matters
The emotional toll of being judged by people who haven’t lived your reality
Why setting boundaries isn’t selfish—it’s an act of self-preservation
This episode is direct, validating, and full of practical wisdom. We talk about criticism, emotional resilience, and the courage it takes to reclaim your story.
If you’ve ever felt silenced or misunderstood—hit play. You don’t have to explain your life to anyone.
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/58-who-ties-your-laces/

Tuesday May 13, 2025
Tuesday May 13, 2025
If you've ever felt invisible or judged for not having children—this episode is for you.
In this episode, Gail Miller explores how to rebuild your sense of identity and self-worth when life hasn’t followed the path you imagined. In this heartfelt conversation, Gail speaks directly to the unique challenges women face when navigating involuntary childlessness—especially in a world that still defines success by motherhood and traditional family roles.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
How to honor your grief while still moving forward
How to develop emotional independence and confidence without children
How you can cultivate a stronger sense of self-worth—without relying on external approval
This episode is empowering, honest, and full of practical support for healing from childlessness. Whether your path was shaped by circumstance, timing, or heartbreak, this space is for you.
If you’re ready to break free from societal judgment and start honoring your story, press play. 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/57-why-do-we-need-validation/

Tuesday May 06, 2025
Tuesday May 06, 2025
If you dread Mother’s Day and feel like the world forgets your grief—this episode is for you.
Dr. Gail Miller, physician, life coach, and speaker, holds space for the tender emotions that surface during this time of year for women who are childless not by choice. With honesty and warmth, Gail shares her own story and offers gentle guidance for navigating a holiday that can feel both invisible and overwhelming.
In this episode, you’ll hear:
Why Mother’s Day can feel like a spotlight on loss—and how to soften its impact
How feeling your feelings—rather than suppressing them—opens the door to healing
You’re not alone—how shared pain can foster connection and resilience
This conversation is compassionate, grounding, and filled with hope. Gail reminds us that it’s okay to step away, to grieve, and to honor your experience in a way that feels true to you.
If you’re seeking comfort and clarity around this difficult day, you’re not alone. Press play. 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/56-finding-your-way-through-the-heartache-of-mothers-day/

Tuesday Apr 29, 2025
Tuesday Apr 29, 2025
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/

Tuesday Apr 22, 2025
Tuesday Apr 22, 2025
If you’ve ever felt overlooked because your accomplishments don’t fit the traditional mold—listen in.
Dr. Gail Miller, physician, life coach, and speaker, invites us to reconsider what it means to celebrate ourselves—especially as women who are childless not by choice. In a world that often measures success by marriage and motherhood, Gail offers a new lens—one that honors personal growth, resilience, and the quiet victories that rarely get acknowledged.
In this episode, you’ll hear:
Why recognizing your own milestones matters—emotionally and physically
How celebration can shift your self-worth and sense of identity
Ways to reclaim your joy, even when society overlooks your path
This conversation is empowering, affirming, and full of gentle reminders that your journey is worthy of celebration.
If you’re ready to start honoring your life exactly as it is—you’ll want to tune in. Let’s keep moving 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/54-unapologetically-you-celebrating-lifes-unique-achievements/

Tuesday Apr 15, 2025
Tuesday Apr 15, 2025
If you’ve ever wondered how to begin again when life hasn’t gone the way you imagined—this episode is for you.
Dr. Gail Miller, physician, life coach, and speaker, explores what renewal really looks like for women without children. Drawing from her own experience and the stories she’s heard along the way, Gail dives deep into the emotional terrain of invisible grief, unmet expectations, and the courage it takes to reimagine your future.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
How to move through grief when society doesn’t always acknowledge it
Why self-compassion is the foundation of any fresh start
How to approach the idea of renewal
This conversation is tender, validating, and full of hope. We talk about loss, identity, healing—and the power of choosing yourself, again and again.
If you’re ready to step into a new chapter, you’ll want to hear this. Hit play. 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/53-unwanted-opportunity-for-renewal-what-if-youre-not-ready/

Tuesday Apr 08, 2025
Tuesday Apr 08, 2025
If you've ever felt like you're carrying unseen grief—this episode is for you.
You'll hear the raw, powerful story of Maureen Benkovich, a former pharmaceutical sales rep turned life coach, who knows what it’s like to quietly grieve the life you imagined—and try to numb that pain with alcohol.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
What gray area drinking is and how it holds you back from healing
How Maureen coped with multiple miscarriages and the heartbreak of a failed adoption
The benefits Maureen found from support groups
The surprising role of self-compassion, gratitude, and neuroplasticity in healing
This conversation is honest, emotional, and deeply empowering. We talk about invisible grief, addiction, rebuilding your identity, and finding joy even when life doesn’t go as planned.
If you’ve ever felt alone in your pain—or wondered if things could ever feel better—hit play. This one’s for you.
Subscribe now for real talk, compassion, and hope delivered every Tuesday.
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More from Maureen Benkovich:Website: https://www.soberfitchick.com/ Schedule a free discovery call: https://calendly.com/soberfitchick/45min?month=2025-04 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soberfitchickllc/
Resources:Living the Life Unexpected by Jody Day: https://www.amazon.com/Living-Life-Unexpected-Meaningful-Fulfilling/dp/1509809031 Free Support Group: https://pathonward.com/support-group/Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/whenbeingchildlessisntbychoice/Finding You: Beyond Motherhood Group Coaching Program coming soon! Join the waitlist: https://path-onward.kit.com/8d4b621a3b
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/52-childless-and-coping-when-soothing-hurts-more-than-it-heals-with-maureen-benkovich/

Tuesday Apr 01, 2025
Tuesday Apr 01, 2025
Spring holidays can bring unexpected emotional challenges for those who are childless not by choice. In this episode, host Gail Miller explores the unique triggers that can arise during this time and offers practical ways to navigate them with resilience and grace.
This conversation is an invitation to rethink traditions, cultivate peace, and create meaningful moments in ways that honor your journey. Whether you're managing family gatherings or seeking joy in solitude, you'll find compassionate guidance and supportive insights to help you through this season.
Join us as we explore the power of community, the benefits of group coaching, and how to move forward with intention—even in the face of involuntary childlessness.
Key Episode Takeaways:
Coping strategies for Spring Holidays.
How to begin creating new traditions.
Where you can find support.
Finding You: Beyond Motherhood group coaching program coming soon! Join the waiting list.
Join the Support Group
Find full episode notes and transcript HERE.
When Being Childless Isn’t By Choice Facebook Group
Learn more or book a free, no-obligation call to talk about what a coaching experience could look like for you HERE.
Listen on YouTube, find me on Facebook or Instagram

Tuesday Mar 25, 2025
Tuesday Mar 25, 2025
In this milestone 50th episode, join host Gail Miller as she explores the transformative yet challenging journey of self-acceptance for women who are childless not by choice. She dives into how self-acceptance is the key to living fully and authentically.
From confronting self-blame and shame to embracing joy in everyday moments, Gail shares insights and steps to help you build resilience and move forward and find healing. Learn how these techniques - like mindset shifts, can support your healing and personal growth.
Key Episode Takeaways:
What self-acceptance really means.
How embracing reality can open the door to healing.
Ways to build self-acceptance.
Join the Support Group
Find full episode notes and transcript HERE.
When Being Childless Isn’t By Choice Facebook Group
Learn more or book a free, no-obligation call to talk about what a coaching experience could look like for you HERE.
Listen on YouTube, find me on Facebook or Instagram

Tuesday Mar 18, 2025
Tuesday Mar 18, 2025
Understanding that life’s beauty and sorrow can coexist is vital for women who are childless not by choice. In this episode of Childless and Moving Onward, host Gail Miller delves into the art of balancing two truths: grief and joy.
Gail dives into practical strategies like maintaining a 'both-and' journal and transforming painful triggers into positive actions. Listen in for an honest and heartfelt conversation on finding balance, resilience, and self-acceptance in a world that often misunderstands the childless journey.
Key Episode Takeaways:
How we can allow grief and joy to coexist.
The Power of a 'Both-And' Mindset.
How to pair the painful with the positive.
Practical strategies to cope with painful triggers.
Join the Support Group
Find full episode notes and transcript HERE.
When Being Childless Isn’t By Choice Facebook Group
Learn more or book a free, no-obligation call to talk about what a coaching experience could look like for you HERE.
Listen on YouTube, find me on Facebook or Instagram